World Premiere! A Design Onscreen production directed by award-winning filmmaker Jake Gorst.

Googie architecture was one of the most visually exciting and culturally formative design movements of the mid-20th century, yet it remains one of the least understood. Characterized by bold angles, sweeping rooflines, and a futuristic optimism, these structures drew on both Modern and organic materials to create a sense of spectacle. Coffee shops, bowling alleys, car washes, banks, and even churches became architectural icons designed not just for function, but to catch the eye of people cruising by in their cars.

Rooted in Los Angeles, California, Googie design was deeply influenced by masters such as Frank Lloyd Wright and John Lautner, whose visionary ideas filtered into the commercial landscape. The architectural firm Armet & Davis became especially renowned for creating some of the most iconic Googie coffee shops, where vibrant design helped define the social fabric of midcentury communities. Soon, examples of Googie spread beyond Southern California, shaping skylines and streetscapes across the United States.

Though many original structures have been demolished, a passionate movement has emerged to preserve what remains. Historians, architects, and everyday enthusiasts now recognize Googie as more than kitsch or roadside novelty—it is a legitimate form of high architecture that reflected the aspirations of a postwar America looking toward the future. This film explores the rise, fall, and revival of Googie, celebrating its role as both a community anchor and a uniquely American contribution to Modern design.

Featuring John English, Alan Hess, Alison Martino, Peter Moruzzi, Michael Murphy, Victor Newlove, Chris Nichols and Charles Phoenix.

Run time: 70 minutes. A Design Onscreen production. designonscreen.org

Following the screening will be a panel discussion moderated by Alison Martino with Jake Gorst and special guests.

A limited capacity VIP Pre-Screening Reception, including Preferred Seating for the film, will take place in the museum’s Elrod Sculpture Garden, adjacent to the Annenberg Theater, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Enjoy meeting the director and special guests while savoring ample delicious hors d'oeuvres and wine catered from Livs Palm Springs by Chef Gabriel Woo. Just prior to the start of the film at 6:00 PM, guests will be escorted directly from the Elrod Sculpture Garden to reserved VIP preferred seats.

To attend 5:00 PM pre-screening reception and receive preferred seating for the 6:00 PM film, choose the ‘VIP Preferred Seating and Pre-Screening Reception Ticket’ 5:00 PM–7:30 PM option (ages 21 and older) listed separately from ‘FILM ONLY General Admission’ 6:00 PM–7:30 PM ticket option.

Jake Gorst is an Award-winning documentary filmmaker, writer, and president of Mainspring Narrative Films. With Tracey Rennie Gorst, their past films include: New England Modernism: Revolutionary Architecture in the 20th Century (2024); Frey: The Architectural Interpreter (2020, Design Onscreen); Frey: The Architectural Envoy (2018, Design Onscreen); The Nature of Modernism: E. Stewart Williams, Architect (2014, Design Onscreen); Modern Tide: Midcentury Architecture on Long Island (2012, Design Onscreen); William Krisel, Architect (2010, Design Onscreen); Journeyman Architect: The Life and Work of Donald Wexler (2009, Design Onscreen); Desert Utopia: Midcentury Architecture in Palm Springs (2006, Design Onscreen); Leisurama (2005). Jake is the author of Andrew Geller. Deconstructed (2015, Glitterati, Inc).

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