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Film

Ritchie Forever: LA BAMBA Screening & Panel

A free screening of Luis Valdez's 1987 Ritchie Valens biopic at the Philosophical Research Society, followed by a panel including one of the film's actors.

Rows of empty red seats in a darkened cinema
WHEN THU, AUG 20
7:00 PM–9:00 PM
WHERE Philosophical Research Society
Los Feliz
PRICE Free with RSVP
GOOD TO KNOW Free with RSVP on Eventbrite. Note the address: this one is at the Philosophical Research Society in Los Feliz, not at California Plaza. Announced panellists are Geoff Rivas, who appeared in the film, Hector Flores of Las Cafeteras, and Grand Performances president Rafael Gonzalez.

Why it's worth your time

Valens' recording career lasted under a year and he died at seventeen, which is why the 1987 film has carried so much of his memory since. The organizers call it the first Hollywood blockbuster built around a Mexican-American family. Going on Thursday sets up the tribute concert two nights later, and the panel is the part you cannot get from streaming it at home.

Last checked August 15, 2026 against the organizer's listing. Plans change—confirm before heading out.

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