Thursday, August 20, 2026
Doors & wine open at 7:30 PM
Film begins at 8 PM
The Athenaeum's outdoor movie series, Flicks on the Bricks, invites you to enjoy classic movies on our patio during beautiful summer nights. In August, KPBS film critic, arts reporter, and Cinema Junkie podcast host Beth Accomando returns to host the 20th annual Flicks on the Bricks series. This year, she has chosen four classic films by director Frank Capra, viewing the American Dream through the eyes of an immigrant.
Frank Capra was born in Italy and raised in Los Angeles. As an immigrant, he pursued the American Dream. He would go on to win Oscars for directing Mr. Deeds Goes to Town (1936) and other film comedies that championed the common man at the expense of the powers that be. Capra’s films reflect an immigrant's vision of what America and the American Dream were and how inspiring this country at its best could be. But he was never blind to its dark side, to corruption or to evil. His films are fueled by idealism and hope. So, as we celebrate America at 250, let's remember what immigrants like Capra contributed and bask in his vision of what we and America can be at our best.
Popcorn is included with your ticket. Beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) will be available for purchase. Plus, enjoy weekly trivia and prizes throughout the series. Join the Athenaeum for its 20th year of hot summer fun!
Cast: starring Gary Cooper, Barbara Stanwyck, Edward Arnold; director, Frank Capra
Runtime: 2 hr. 2 min.
Tagline: ALL AMERICA WANTS TO MEET THE "MR. DEEDS" OF 1941!
As a parting shot, fired reporter Ann Mitchell prints a fake letter from unemployed “John Doe,” who threatens suicide in protest of social ills. The paper is forced to rehire Ann and hires John Willoughby to impersonate “Doe.” Ann and her bosses cynically milk the story for all it's worth, until the made-up “John Doe” philosophy starts a whole social movement. At last everyone, even Ann, takes her creation seriously ... but publisher D.B. Norton has a secret plan.
Academy Awards, USA: Best Writing, Original Story (Nominee)
Memorable Quote: Ann Mitchell: If it was raining hundred dollar bills, you'd be out looking for a dime you lost someplace!
Fun Trivia: Director Frank Capra filmed four different endings but deemed them unsatisfactory during previews. A letter from an audience member, signed “John Doe,” suggested a fifth ending that Capra liked and used in the finished film.
Genre: Drama
INDIVIDUAL FILMS:
$24 member / $29 nonmember
SERIES OF 4 FILMS:
$88 member / $108 nonmember
The films will be shown in person and outdoors on the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library patio. There are no physical tickets for these events. Your name will be on an attendee list at the front door. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Seating is first-come; first-served. Priority seating will be given to Donor level members and above.
Ticket Confirmation Notice:
Your reservation is not complete until you receive an email confirmation. If you do not receive a confirmation email, your tickets have not been reserved. Please check your inbox and spam/junk folder or contact us at info@ljathenaeum.org or (858) 454-5872 to ensure your booking is finalized.
Thank you!