Blues Brothers Mark 45th Anniversary, Now You Can Watch Movie At Old Joliet Prison

(The following edited press release is from the Joliet Area Historical Museum.)

JOLIET, IL — The Joliet Area Historical Museum will be showing a 45th anniversary screening of “The Blues Brothers” in the yard of the Old Joliet Prison at 7 p.m. Saturday Oct. 4. Tours of the Old Joliet Prison will begin that day at 4 p.m.

It was in late August of 1979 when a film crew descended on the “World’s Toughest Prison,” the 1858 Joliet Correctional Center on Collins Street.

Shrouded in secrecy and heavy security, the iconic opening sequence of The Blues Brothers in which Joliet Jake Blues reunites with his brother Elwood outside the Prison’s limestone walls, was captured in just two days, amid the working maximum-security facility.

According to an Aug. 23, 1979, Joliet newspaper article, “The stars and the producer nixed any publicity of the filming, and refused to even confirm that shooting was going on at the location.”

Over forty-five years since the unforgettable performances of the late John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd as The Blues Brothers, the music, the film — and the historic site — continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

In partnership with Blues Brothers Approved Ventures, managed by Dan Aykroyd and Luke Pisano, son of the late Judith Belushi Pisano and co-author of the forthcoming graphic novel "The Blues Brothers: The Escape of Joliet Jake," the JAHM will hold a screening of the 1980 film inside the walls of the Prison to commemorate the 45th anniversary of the film on Saturday, Oct. 4.

“We’re thrilled to be back in Joliet, celebrating the 45th anniversary of The Blues Brothers in the very place where it all began,” said Pisano. “My mom, Judy Belushi Pisano, and John Belushi grew up just miles from (Joliet), and they understood the grit, humor, and soul that make this place special. This event is more than a screening — it’s a reunion, a party, and a chance to keep the blues alive. Come for the film, the beer, the memorabilia, and the music… stay for the magic that only happens when Joliet and the Blues Brothers meet again. I hope you enjoy the movie, and as always - buy as many blues albums as you can.”

Following two historic “Blues Brothers Con” performances by Dan Aykroyd and Jim Belushi in 2022 and 2024, the 45th anniversary event will take a D.I.Y. (do it yourself) format centered around the film itself.

"We are proud to continue to partner with BBAV to bring unforgettable, fan-friendly Blues Brothers experiences to the Old Joliet Prison Historic Site,” said Greg Peerbolte, CEO of JAHM, which operates the historic site. “The thrill of watching the legendary opening sequence inside the walls of the Prison where it was filmed over 45 years ago is an incredible feeling. It is our great honor to serve as a vehicle to pass on this iconic film and the timeless Blues music it celebrates to new audiences.”

In addition to the film, guests will have an opportunity to explore the 16-acre campus of the Old Joliet Prison Historic, with increased access to historic structures made possible by $6.5 million of economic development grants from the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity and Department of Housing & Urban Development.

Moviegoers can also expect a variety of special merchandise, local culinary favorites from food trucks and plentiful beverages.

If You Go:

Where: Old Joliet Prison Historic Site, 1125 N. Collins Street, Joliet

When: Saturday, Oct. 4. Gates/Tours: 4 PM/ Movie: 7 PM.

Tickets: jolietmuseum.org (Includes film screening and self-guided tour)

• GA Adult Ticket: $35
• Member Adult Ticket: $30
• Children’s ticket (18 & under): $15
• Member Children Ticket: $10