Laguna Beach has long been known for its creative atmosphere, which is home to numerous artists and creators. What makes the community of Laguna so special is the abundance of unique individuals who all have a burning passion to pursue their dreams. From elementary school students participating in art projects at Hesiler Park, musicians performing at local cafes, or the high school student-run film club, everyone has the opportunity to expand their creative minds.
At Laguna Beach High School, senior Jonah Goldstein has leveraged his love and appreciation for the beauty of film to establish the first-ever LBHS Film Club. Goldstein appreciates film because of “the way you can send a message through it, you can tell a story in so many different ways, angles, lightings, etc, but what makes film incredibly special to me is the people you meet. I’ve had many late nights filming with truly great people.” Since he was young, Goldstein has been inspired by film, the people involved, and the work that goes into every scene, and he wants the LBHS community to feel the same way.
“As time goes by, I have heard less and less about film, especially from kids my age. I started the Film Club to try to encourage a sense of appreciation in high school students,” Goldstein says. With a decline in movie theatre attendance, Goldenstein sought to inspire students to return to the theatre, where they could bond over the same work of art. In an effort to motivate, Goldstein and I, Jude Lifeset, started the program “Back to the Big Screen.” We partnered with the local Rivian Theatre and the Coast Film Festival to establish a monthly film screening for high school students. Every month, students join us at the Rivian Theatre. Goldstein and I do a quick overview of the movie, and the students fill the seats. Our ears are flooded with the laughter of kids enjoying the art of film, once again.
Our generation has forgotten the beauty of shared bonds; instead, we enjoy things from the comfort of our beds and on the small screen on our phones, which has taken over our lives. Goldstein hoped to bring attention back to an activity that had brought us such joy when we were younger. Goldstein emphasizes that “with his Film Club, he wants to provide a space for people who love film to follow their dreams and create.” And Goldstein is doing just that, with over 50 new members joining the club for the 2025-2026 school year. Each member will be inspired and encouraged to pursue their passions.
“I want to inspire people to do what they love, and never be afraid to pursue their passions,” Goldstein says. That is precisely the goal of the Film Club: to inspire students to create, pursue, and make their unique impact on the film world.
