Mountain Drive Memories: Screening of Hot Tubs

Mountain Drive, Santa Barbara’s own bohemian community, is credited with having invented the backyard hot tub.

The documentary, Hot Tubs, explores this legend through the eyes and first-hand accounts of Mountain Drivers, many who are no longer with us. Despite the chaotic times of the 1970s, the locals of Mountain Drive partied on, letting even their clothes come off in the hot tub. Rosenn incorporates archival footage, photographs, and interviews to tell the story that led to the rise of the modern-day spa.

The short film, which debuted at SBIFF in 2010, is presented in conjunction with the third edition release of the Lee Chiacos’s book, Mountain Drive: Santa Barbara’s Pioneering Bohemian Community. Attendees are invited to enjoy wine and meet filmmaker Gabe Rosenn and author Lee Chiacos.

Gabe Rosenn is an independent filmmaker and storyteller whose work explores culture, community, and creativity. He has directed two documentaries: Justice Bound (2022), a timely exploration of social justice and resilience, and Hot Tubs. Rosenn also edited the feature documentary Eat, Drink, Laugh: The Story of the Comic Strip Live (2014), produced by Chris Rock. In addition to his film work, Rosenn has filmed and edited docu-style content for clients such as Blue Note Records, Converse, Indaba Music, NYX, BeautyTap, and Hyundai.

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