“Lilly”: A lesson of never giving up!

***** Our world has changed. When I was young, going to the movie theater was very special. Of course, back then we only had 4 TV stations, and movie theaters were where we had to go. Now our TV sets are giant in comparison, and the networks plentiful. As much as I am a “live theater” person, I do enjoy a good film and love a local movie theater that brings us unique, one-of-a-kind experiences. The theater is Wayfarer in Highland Park and they have  five screens, comfy seats, great popcorn, and of most importance, they bring in films that are educational as well as lessons in life. The theater is considered more of a “community center” instead of just a movie house. One of the reasons, and one that Jane and I love, is that they do special events where there is a “talkback” after a viewing with one of the principals of the film.

Currently, they are showing the film “Lilly” which is the story of Lilly Ledbetter. I am sure there are many of you who do not know her story, but it is a powerful story of a woman, doing a man’s job, who began the fight for equal pay for equal work. The film stars Patricia Clarkson in the role of Lilly and she is terrific. The director, who also did the screenplay and was one of the producers, Rachel Feldman, was at the Wayfarer last night and the audience was able to learn more about the making of the film, the book and the “rest of the story”.

I found the production to be a unique blend of story and documentary, with cuts from actual newscasts and amazing footage of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg tossed in. The film is less than 100 minutes in length and will bring up all types of emotion, so I suggest that you have a few tissues at your ready. At Wayfarer, we were in the under 40 seat SCREEN 5 and during most of the film, you could hear a pin drop. When the film ended there was thunderous applause ( not something one expects inn a movie theater, but it was that good!).

The film has won several awards and we learned a great deal about Ms Feldman and her career. The film and TV industry is one of those where women are still lagging behind men is pay, and even thought Ledbetter brought the subject to the world, it was alarming to see that women are still being shortchanged for their work. I suggest you view this film on the big screen. It will continue at Wayfarer for another week.. Check it out at www.wayfarertheaters.com

Wayfarer Theaters is located at 1850 Second Street in Highland Park

phone 847-873-1030

They have free paring in the building garage and unlike the “big movie houses”, the friendliest staff you will ever find. You will feel at home!

Now Playing

Glenview, IL
Landmark At The Glen
Opens 16th May

Highland Park, IL
Wayfarer Theater Highland Park
Wednesday May 14th – Sunday May 18th