Movie Marathon: LOLLOPALOOZA

On Saturday, August 1, skip the crowds and chaos of Chicago’s summer festival season and slip into the glamour of LOLLOPALOOZA, an all-day cinematic celebration of Gina Lollobrigida, the Italian-born European screen icon whose dazzling presence made her a favorite of French cinema.

Curated by Stephanie “La Gialloholique” Sack, this one-day movie marathon follows La Lollo through two unforgettable French and Franco-Italian productions: from her international breakthrough opposite Gérard Philipe in Fanfan la Tulipe to the deliriously strange French-Italian cult treasure Death Laid an Egg. 

Between screenings, enjoy complimentary Twisted Mimosas crafted with fresh local juices from our partner Twisted Alchemy, create a one-of-a-kind souvenir at our interactive art station, and explore a curated collection of vintage and vintage-inspired accessories inspired by the timeless elegance of La Lollo herself.

One day only, two films, a garden party, and the radiant, unforgettable Gina Lollobrigida. 

11:30 am 
Fanfan la Tulipe, 1952 —  Dir. by Christian-Jaque

The French-Italian swashbuckler that made Gina Lollobrigida a sensation on the French screen, Fanfan la Tulipe pairs La Lollo’s dazzling Adeline with Gérard Philipe’s roguish soldier in a sparkling adventure of romance, wit, and swordplay.

2:30 pm
Death Laid an Egg, 1968 —  Dir. by Giulio Questi

A deliriously strange Italian-French giallo with major French production backing, Death Laid an Egg sends Gina Lollobrigida, French leading man Jean-Louis Trintignant, and Swedish dolly-bird Ewa Aulin into a high-style love triangle inside an industrial poultry farm.

Doors open at 11:00 am. The first film begins at 11:30 am. One ticket guarantees admission to both films.

Re-entry permitted. Please enter via 54 W Chicago Ave.

About the Curator

Stephanie “La Gialloholique” Sack is a longtime Francophile and devoted enthusiast of European cinema, with a special passion for films from the 1960–1980 period. Her love of cinema centers on exploring the artistry, context, and emotion behind works that have often been overlooked or misunderstood. Known for her thoughtful curation and infectious enthusiasm, Stephanie brings fresh perspectives to audiences eager to rediscover hidden gems of film history. She celebrates the cultural richness and visual daring of mid-century European filmmaking, particularly the stylish intensity of Italian Giallo, French Fantastique, and Soviet Sci-Fi. Through her ongoing programming and producing, Stephanie continues to champion films that challenge convention and deserve a second look.

Getting Here

The Alliance Française de Chicago is one block from the CTA Red line stop at Chicago Avenue. Best bus routes are the 22 on Clark and the 66 on Chicago Avenue. A Divvy station is located in front of the 54 W Chicago Ave entrance.

Parking Information

$10 for 12 hours at 100 W Chestnut St. Validation is available at reception.

Photography Notice

Please be advised that students, members, and attendees at cultural events or programs may be photographed, and these images may be used for marketing purposes.