Oak Park native films ‘The Elkhorn Special’ in Downers Grove
Suburban Chicago will soon see its neighborhoods celebrated on the big screen. “The Elkhorn Special,” an upcoming independent feature written and directed by Oak Park native and Army veteran Daniel John Harris, begins filming the second week of October at locations across Berwyn, Riverside, and Downers Grove, including the beautiful Classic Cinemas Tivoli.
Blending dramedy, magical realism, and offbeat humor, the film follows two eccentric small-town outsiders as they navigate life, love, and a community that may not be what it seems.
“Elkhorn may be fantastical, but the people in it are real,” Harris said. “This story carries my fears, my hope, and my heart. My goal is for audiences to see themselves in the absurdity, beauty, and contradictions of small-town life.”
Classic Cinemas Tivoli, with its historic architecture and welcoming charm, provides a quintessential suburban backdrop for the story, emphasizing the unique character of Downers Grove.
“Filming at Tivoli is a dream,” said producer George Ellzey Jr. “It’s locations like this, with real community history and charm, that bring authenticity to the film.”
The cast includes rising Chicago talent from Gray Talent Agency and DDO, featuring Jack Chylinski (Owen), Ellie Duffey (Kitty), Kyle Patrick (Clint), and Noelle Oh (Lexie).
With a small, professional crew and a commitment to respecting local businesses, the production aims to highlight the vibrancy of suburban communities while minimizing disruption.
“The Elkhorn Special” is more than a film; it’s a celebration of the people, places, and stories that make Chicago’s western suburbs special. Residents and visitors alike will soon see familiar streets, landmarks, and local flavor brought to life on screen, showing that even in small-town settings, big stories are waiting to be told.
For more information, visit www.elkhornspecial.com or follow the film on social media: Instagram: @TheElkhornSpecial, X: @ElkhornSpecial or Facebook: The Elkhorn Special