How Does the Silver Screen Shape the Golden State?

Hollywood has projected images and ideas around the world for over a century. Major film studios and the people that work for them have spotlighted the California imagination, exported it as entertainment, and built a global mass audience, recreating popular culture in their image. Moviegoers worldwide have inhabited the California Dream—riches, romance, and reinvention.

Movies mean something to us: We borrow lines from memorable scenes, we fancy ourselves a bit like our favorite main characters, and we do it for the plot. As Hollywood faces new challenges amid streaming, AI, and industry flight, will the California imagination change? How about the way the world sees California? Can the Golden State remain the epicenter of the silver screen's powerful mode of storytelling?

This event will feature a screening of Friday, the '90s buddy comedy starring Ice Cube (who also co-wrote it) and Chris Tucker. A commercial success and tribute to South Central L.A.'s community, humor, and everyday struggles, the film spawned pop culture catchphrases like “Bye, Felicia,” and continues to inspire homages to its themes and storyline.

Grab your seats: Zócalo and Academy Museum are exploring the industry, imagination, and influence of California film.

This program is part of California 175 — What Connects California?, a suite of free Zócalo events and essays, bringing together leaders and thinkers from all walks of life to envision California’s next 175 years.