
Lost & Found at the Movies:
True Lies
In this edition, we explore the art of lying… cinematically speaking.
From the outset, Lulu Wang’s The Farewell lets us know that the film is “based on an actual lie,” which turns out to be true. Wang drew inspiration from a deception that unfolded within her own family when her grandmother, living in Changchun, China, was diagnosed with terminal cancer. The family kept the diagnosis a secret from the grandmother and in order to bid her goodbye, they gathered in China under the guise of a wedding. We welcome the wonderfully talented Wang to discuss the emotional and cultural nuances of blurring the line between fiction and nonfiction, and to explore the creative journey of The Farewell, first told as a segment of “This American Life” and then beautifully transformed into one of this year’s best films.
Bending the truth is of course a time-honored tradition in Hollywood and in other segments, we take a look at the art of lying from another angle: the most audacious and outrageous hoaxes ever orchestrated to generate publicity for movies—from the silent era to present day. And naturally, we celebrate being deceived by some of the greatest onscreen lies (and liars) in film history.
LFLA Members are invited to enjoy an exclusive reception following the program.
Lost & Found at the Movies is generously supported by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association


Frequently Asked Questions
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How much does Lost & Found at the Movies cost to attend?
Lost & Found at the Movies is free to attend.
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Can I attend if I’m not a Member?
While priority notification is given to LFLA Members, non-Members are welcome to attend if space allows. However, the complimentary reception following the program is limited to Members.
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Do I have to make a reservation?
Reservations are recommended, as our programs often fill to capacity. Priority is given to reserved guests.
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Can I attend even if I don’t have a reservation?
Yes! We often have space available to accommodate walk-up guests without advanced reservations. Check our stand-by policy for more information.
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Reservation Policy for Free Programs
As Lost & Found at the Movies is free of charge, it is our policy to overbook. In the case of a FULL program your free reservation may not guarantee admission. We recommend arriving early. Unclaimed reservations will be released to standby patrons at the start of each program.
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Standby Policy
Standby numbers are distributed in person only one hour before the program, on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no advance wait list for full programs. Standby patrons will be admitted based on availability. Most programs will be available via podcast. Become a Member of the Library Foundation to receive priority notification of these programs.
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Canceling a Reservation
If you are unable to use your reservation, please email [email protected]
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Where does Lost & Found at the Movies take place?
Unless otherwise noted, Lost & Found at the Movies is held at the downtown Central Library’s Mark Taper Auditorium.
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Where should I park for Lost & Found at the Movies?
We recommend taking public transportation. Parking for the Central Library is at the Westlawn Garage at 524 S. Flower Street. For more information, visit the Library’s website.
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Where do I purchase the speaker’s book?
Occasionally a guest on Lost & Found at the Movies is touring with a book. Books are made available for purchase at programs or can be purchased while making your online reservation. In order to participate in the book signing, you must purchase at least one book.