Surf’s Up with the VSRI Back to School
60th anniversary screening of the classic,
The Endless Summer (1966, dir. Bruce Brown)

Introduction by Prof. Peter Westwick (USC)
Q&A: Susan Matheson (Costume Designer, Blue Crush) and Prof. Peter Westwick (USC)

6:00 P.M. on Wednesday, August 26th, 2026

The Michelle and Kevin Douglas IMAX Theatre, RZC 119
Robert Zemeckis Center for Digital Arts
3131 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90007

FREE ADMISSION. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

RSVP to vsri@usc.edu to join us OR for more information

The VSRI Endless Summer Research Group presents a 60th anniversary screening of the classic 1966 surf documentary, The Endless Summer, directed by Bruce Brown. The screening will take place on Wednesday, August 26, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. PST at the Michelle and Kevin Douglas IMAX Theatre at USC (3131 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90007).

The film will be introduced by Prof. Peter Westwick, Professor of Practice of Thematic Option and History, followed by a Q&A featuring Susan Matheson, Costume Designer for Blue Crush, and Prof. Westwick.

Join us for a special evening celebrating six decades of The Endless Summer and its enduring influence on surf culture, cinema, and the cultural imagination. We look forward to welcoming you back to school with an iconic journey in search of the perfect wave!

RSVP to vsri@usc.edu to join us OR for more information

About The Endless Summer (1966)

They call it The Endless Summer, the ultimate surfing adventure, crossing the globe in search of the perfect wave. From the uncharted waters of West Africa, to the shark-filled seas of Australia, to the tropical paradise of Tahiti and beyond, these California surfers accomplish in a few months what most people never do in a lifetime...They live their dream. Director Bruce Brown creates a film so powerful it has become a timeless masterpiece that continues to capture the imagination of every new generation. When it first played in theaters, audiences lined up to see it again and again, spellbound by its thrilling excitement and awesome photography. But in fact, what's most compelling about the film is the sport of surfing itself, and once you've seen it, you'll never forget why.

Running time: 95 minutes.

Check-In & Reservations

This program is open to all eligible individuals. The USC School of Cinematic Arts operates all of its programs and activities consistent with the University’s Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor.

Accessibility Needs

Individuals with disabilities who need accommodations to attend this event may contact Alessandro Ago, Assistant Dean, Programming and Special Events, at aago@cinema.usc.edu or 213-740-2330. It is requested that individuals requiring accommodations or auxiliary aids such as sign language interpreters and alternative format materials notify us at least seven days prior to the event. Every reasonable effort will be made to provide reasonable accommodations in an effective and timely manner.

Parking

NO STUDENT, STAFF, FACULTY OR THEATER PARKING IS AVAILABLE AT THE ROBERT ZEMECKIS CENTER.

We recommend Parking in the USC Shrine Parking Structure, located 686 W 32nd St. Parking passes may be purchased at the gate. Metered street parking is also available along 32nd street.

The USC Robert Zemeckis Center is located at 3131 South Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90007, one block north of Parking Structure D, on the North side of the Shrine Auditorium. The RZC entrance is located at the rear of the building, behind the red fence on 32nd St.

Contact Information

Email: vsri@usc.edu