URGENT UPDATE: A groundbreaking exhibit showcasing iconic movie memorabilia, including Al Pacino’s infamous shirt from “Scarface” and Tom Hanks’ flight suit from “Apollo 13,” is set to open on November 14, 2023, at the Richard and Pat Johnson Palm Beach County History Museum in West Palm Beach. This exhibit, titled “Sunshine Cinema: Florida in Film,” runs until May 30, 2024, and promises to captivate movie lovers and history buffs alike.
The exhibit marks an exciting revival of Florida’s rich cinematic heritage, featuring over 25 artifacts that trace the evolution of film in the Sunshine State. It highlights a century of filmmaking, with a particular emphasis on Palm Beach. Attendees will encounter historical items ranging from a 1910s Thomas Edison kinetoscope to contemporary costumes worn by Hollywood legends.
“This exhibit encapsulates the power of film to move generations,” says Erica Grant, the Historical Society of Palm Beach County’s director of curatorial affairs. Visitors will explore clips from historic films, including Richard Norman’s “The Flying Ace,” which showcased an all-African American cast, aiming to inspire future aviators.
The exhibit also confronts Hollywood’s complex legacy, including a section addressing racial stereotyping in films from the 1940s. Grant emphasizes the importance of reflecting on these portrayals, stating, “We break that scene apart to encourage visitors to confront how stereotypical images on film try to replace reality.”
Among the standout items on display are Tom Hanks’ NASA suit from the 1995 blockbuster “Apollo 13” and Vin Diesel’s tank top from “2 Fast 2 Furious.” A special section honors the late actor Burt Reynolds, featuring scripts and costumes donated by his niece, Nancy Hess.
The museum enhances the experience with interactive touchscreens that allow guests to create their own movie posters, making this not just an exhibit but an engaging journey through film history.
IF YOU GO:
– WHAT: “Sunshine Cinema: Florida in Film”
– WHEN: Exhibit runs from November 14, 2023, to May 30, 2024
– WHERE: Richard and Pat Johnson Palm Beach County History Museum, 300 N. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach
– COST: Admission is $12 for adults; free for guests age 18 and younger.
– INFORMATION: Call 561-832-4164 or visit PBCHistory.org
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to dive into Florida’s cinematic past and celebrate the legacies of beloved films and their creators. Share this news and plan your visit to witness the magic of cinema come alive!
