Welcome back to The Video Store Podcast. This week, I’ve curated a lineup of films that capture different aspects of Los Angeles: its humor, its struggles, its danger, and its intrigue. Whether you’re a longtime fan of these movies or discovering them for the first time, I think they’re worth your time. Here’s what we’re watching this week:

L.A. Story (1991)

Steve Martin stars in and wrote this quirky romantic comedy that doubles as a love letter to Los Angeles. It’s full of surreal humor, like talking freeway signs, and it pokes fun at the city’s obsession with image and trends. But it’s also heartfelt, exploring how we connect with others in a place that can feel isolating. Keep an eye out for some great cameos, including Patrick Stewart as a hilariously serious maître d'. The film was shot all around L.A., including Griffith Park and Venice Beach, which really adds to its sense of place.

Born in East L.A. (1987)

Cheech Marin wrote, directed, and stars in this comedy about a Mexican-American man who gets mistakenly deported to Mexico. It’s packed with laughs, but it also has a lot of heart as it explores cultural misunderstandings. Make sure to check out Paul Rodriguez and Daniel Stern both have memorable roles here, adding to the film’s charm.

To Live and Die in L.A. (1985)

If you’re into crime thrillers, this one’s a must. Directed by William Friedkin (The Exorcist, The French Connection), it’s a gritty and intense look at the darker side of Los Angeles. The film follows a Secret Service agent, played by William Petersen, as he becomes obsessed with catching a counterfeiter (Willem Dafoe). Friedkin’s commitment to authenticity shows, especially in the car chases, which are some of the best ever put on film. The movie also features an amazing soundtrack by Wang Chung, which perfectly complements its tense, stylish vibe.

L.A. Confidential (1997)

Curtis Hanson’s neo-noir is a masterpiece. Set in the 1950s, it dives into corruption, scandal, and ambition within the LAPD. The ensemble cast, including Kevin Spacey, Guy Pearce, Kim Basinger, and Russell Crowe, delivers some of their best work. Basinger even won an Oscar for her performance. The screenplay, co-written by Hanson and Brian Helgeland, is a brilliant adaptation of James Ellroy’s novel. The production design and costumes perfectly recreate the glamour and grit of post-war Los Angeles, making it as visually striking as it is narratively gripping.

That’s the lineup for this week. Each of these films captures something unique about Los Angeles, from its humor and charm to its danger and complexity. If you decide to check out any of these, let me know what you think. Thanks for stopping by The Video Store Podcast, and we’ll see you next time with more movies to add to your watchlist.

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