
Shakespeare on Film
Lost & Found at the Movies is the Library Foundation’s series celebrating the art of cinema and the vitality of film culture. Eclectic in theme and varying in form, this onstage magazine explores how we lose ourselves and find ourselves at the movies.
In closing out the America’s Shakespeare: The Bard Goes West exhibit, Lost & Found celebrates the rich history of Shakespeare on film and the evolving relationship between the Elizabethan era’s great playwright and the 20th century’s great art form.
It’s a story that begins, ironically, in the silent era with literally hundreds of films adapted from or inspired by Shakespeare despite the nascent cinema form’s inability to even employ Shakespeare’s words! Though most have been lost to time, many treasures still exist.
We’re joined by Alfred Molina, whose passion for Shakespeare can be traced back to his childhood in London and as a member of the Royal Shakespeare Company. As part of the company, Molina appeared in several productions, including Troilus and Cressida and King Lear. He has subsequently appeared in Kenneth Branagh’s adaptation of As You Like It, and Julie Taymor’s The Tempest. We explore the challenges and nuances of approaching Shakespeare as a performer.
We also unearth quirky stories of Shakespeare Gone Hollywood, from the bard’s run-ins with the Production Code (which took issue with Max Reinhardt’s fairy costumes) to a rare glimpse of Zeffirelli’s star-crossed lovers hitting…Beverly Hills.
And we round out the fun with a quirky snippet of Shakespearean cinema live-dubbed by the inimitable Improvised Shakespeare Company.
LFLA Member reception to follow.
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.