Batman returns to Chicago Chicago has been the scene for many movies over the years, but this summer downtown has seen covert filming of the new Batman movie with once again Chicago playing the role of Gotham City. Warner Brothers shot large parts of Batman Begins in Chicago during the summer of 2004 and have returned this summer shooting scenes for the new Batman film The Dark Knight.

Large parts of downtown have been closed at night, including a stretch of North LaSalle St, just around the corner from me, as Batman Christian Bale struts around in an all-in-one black outfit, toasty I am sure in 90 degree heat.

Much of the filming has been taking place in the Loop with parts of Canal St and Wacker Drive closed. A lot of activity takes places hidden behind large screens but residents are allowed to get quite close to the action. A post office on Van Buren Street has been rebranded the Gotham National Bank and Gotham Police Department (GPD) cars can be seen tucked away in side roads. See photos.

Filming is expected to bring in $45 million into the cities economy, with money spent in local service industries, in addition to hiring 250 day players and a couple thousand extras whilst they take up occupancy in town.

The film, which is due out next July also stars Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, Maggie Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger.

Angelina Jolie's has also been in the city filming Wanted this summer. Unfortunately I haven't spotted old Ange clambering down buildings in a black rubber suit but I did see a sexy looking red car the other week on the way home from work, which according to this article she spends much time sprawled over.  ¶ 23:33