Arts & Entertainment

In Memory: Southland Remembers Roger Ebert

All across the area Patch Facebook sites, our friends are telling stories and sharing condolences in response to the death of Roger Ebert.

As news of Roger Ebert's death spread last week, many south suburban residents have been sharing their experiences and interactions with the longtime Chicago icon.

Patch editor Joe Vince also compiled a few clips of Ebert and the late Gene Siskel reviewing some of his favorite films over the years—Taxi Driver (1976), Network (1976), Ghostbusters (1984), Full Metal Jacket (1987), Blue Velvet (1986), Goodfellas (1990), Magnolia (1999; Joyce Kulhawik joins Ebert for this review). Check out the footage, especially from the Taxi Driver and Network reviews, which are interesting for their time capsule quality as well as the opinions expressed.

Here's a collection of what some of our Patch Facebook friends from across the Southland are saying:

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Dan L. I watched Siskel and Ebert when I was a really young kid We are talking like under 5. No I can't remember anything specific just them sitting in a movie theatre like room and talking about something. its weird to think that in my life he "always" existed.

Reggie S. Brave man. RIP - you are now with your buddy Gene.

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Gracie M. He was the best American film critic and writer of the last 30 years. There are very few that had the respect he had from film directors, writers and fans.

Heidi L. Used to watch Gene and Roger every Sat. morning. A real Chicago treasure and what a fighter. Rest in peace.

John E. Gene has been gone a while. Roger's passing is really the end of an era. They don't make 'em like that anymore.

Debbie R. So sad, prayers to his wife, family and of course Chicago. I enjoyed his work.

Mel T. Yes, a few times at Ebert Fest in Champaign. Such a lovely man.

Raiye R. I did business with him several times. He and his wife were lovely people.

Joel A. I had them both on a few of my LAX trips both men where very very nice

Susan F. Indirectly. He helped me with something 17 yrs ago

Karen M. Siskel & Ebert together again - wonder if Gene is getting in Roger's face for a lot of the movies he reviewed after Gene passed - man - that is gonna be some movie marathon they have! Rest in peace Roger - you are a giant in the film industry and your legacy will live on forever. Two thumbs up for Roger

Ruth A. met him years ago. Siskel and Ebert together again! Be cool, dudes!

Heidi H. He was a Chicago Icon! My popcorn will never be the same! = ( R.I.P. Mr.Roger Ebert!

Denise D. He was one of the best, smartest people.

Rosa R. RIP ROGER EBERT! Love his honesty when it came to letting us know about new movies coming out!

Rosemary D. his passion for cinema, life, love and his wife means something

Vince D. He's in the balcony now with Gene. God Bless Him.

YOUR TURN: What did you think of Roger Ebert? Did he change the way you look at movies, either through his print reviews or his TV presence? Share your thoughts about Roger Ebert in the comments sections.

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