Expect the unexpected with San Francisco summers. Sometimes a walk along the beach feels like a winter day, while just a few blocks away, the city basks in warm sunshine. But the weather was perfect for watching Barbie on the Embarcadero this past Saturday.
It was the latest installment of Sundown Cinema, the city’s outdoor film series that brings us together for a night watching the stars. The Embarcadero — with its iconic views of the Bay Bridge and the twinkling lights of the city — provided the perfect backdrop for the screening. Attendees brought blankets, picnic baskets, and an enthusiasm for both the film and the communal experience.
And of course a lot of Barbie looks, too.
“It’s so special to have these public spaces for anyone to come and watch movies. It brings together all the different people from the community — all ages all genders,” said announcer Helena Levin, who mingled in a fuchsia sparkly jumpsuit and platform heels.
It’s not like San Francisco doesn’t have its problems. Right now we face high living costs, homelessness, and ongoing debates about how to maintain the city’s unique culture in the face of rapid change. But it’s nice to escape inside public events like these that give a glimpse of what makes our city so special. And attendees agree.
“You have to participate in culture if you want culture to happen,” said Stella Lochman, director of programming for the San Francisco Parks Alliance.
Elicia Chen, a North Beach resident, said the night of Barbie was “a fun, healthy way to hang with your friends. It supports the parks, and everyone is always in a good mood.”
As day turned to dusk, and dusk to evening, we all enjoyed Barbie’s dazzling dream house and journey to self-actualization. We got lucky with the weather—it was so warm that we didn't even need a jacket, and a stunning rainbow arched over the entire Bay Bridge. The Ferry Building and the bridge both turned pink, too.
Sundown Cinema began in 2018 from the desire to bring communities together through the shared experience of watching movies in San Francisco’s iconic public spaces.
The series features free screenings of popular and classic films in some of San Francisco’s most iconic public parks and spaces, such as Dolores Park, the Embarcadero, and Alamo Square. Each event typically includes a variety of local food vendors, live music, and pre-show entertainment, making it a festive and inclusive gathering for people of all ages.
If you missed this one, fear not. Here are some upcoming screenings:
September 6: SF’s Lost Landscapes — Duboce Park
- Event starts at 5:30 PM, movie begins at 7:30 PM
Enjoy an eclectic montage of historical film clips showcasing life in San Francisco, curated by Rick Prelinger.
October 4: The Princess and the Frog — India Basin Waterfront
- Event starts at 5:00 PM, Movie begins at 6:30 PM
Experience the magical story of The Princess and the Frog by the waterfront, perfect for families and kids.
October 18: The Nightmare Before Christmas (Costume Contest) — Jerry Garcia Amphitheater
- Event starts at 5:00 PM, movie begins at 6:30 PM
Celebrate Halloween early with a costume contest and screening of the classic The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Courtney Muro is a San Francisco-based content strategist, producer, designer, and creator. She took all photos for this story. Saul Sugarman contributed words.
Want to know what else we’re up to? Check out our latest Instagram post on August 2024 events.
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More photos from Sundown Cinema presents: Barbie
Photos by Courtney Muro for The Bold Italic.
