A Drive-In Night to Remember Chadwick Boseman

Recently, the South Los Angeles community gathered at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza to view a tribute screening of Black Panther in memory of late actor, Chadwick Boseman. This special feature was brought to the community by Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas in partnership with Ozo, Chevrolet, Empowerment Congress West Area, and the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza.

Dozens of vehicles and families gathered at the upper level of Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza for an old-fashioned drive-in presentation of the film. While this is the second installment of a series of free, socially distanced, and family-friendly drive-ins, this recent screening served foremost as a celebration of life for Chadwick Boseman, who touched the lives of individuals of all ages.

“All too often children of color have little to no positive representation like themselves, on-screen. For many, Black Panther is not just another film, it was a symbol for the black community and an inspiration to all,” said Supervisor Ridley-Thomas. “We are gathered in memory of Chadwick Boseman, whose heroism transcended the big screen by showing us remarkable strength and courage—not only in the characters he portrayed, but in all aspects of his life.”

Supervisor Ridley-Thomas and community partners took drive-in attendees on a journey to Wakanda that included paying homage to the late actor and a tribute montage of remembrance for the communities who looked to Boseman as a hero on- and off-screen.

When the blockbuster sensation hit theaters in February 2018, showtimes were sold out for weeks as audiences celebrated having a Black hero on the big screen and the film’s story of resilience in the face of danger—narratives we can look to for hope as we face crises in the present. Boseman brought King T’Challa, and the Black Panther, to life with his strong and captivating, yet gentle and tender presence. During the drive-in opening tribute and end credits of the film, attendees honked their horns in honor of Boseman in heartfelt remembrance and applause.

“We were thrilled to host this wonderful and much-needed event for the community, and grateful to Supervisor Ridley-Thomas for spearheading this effort,” said President and CEO of Capri Retail Services Rachel Freeman. “During these trying times, we are here to support our community in whatever way we can, and were overjoyed to gather our community at BHC once again.”

The next drive-in will take place on Friday, October 2nd at 7 pm showing Remember the Titans at Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area. And finally, to culminate a day of celebratory activities at the park in anticipation of its reopening after a $70 million upgrade, the last drive-in will feature Disney family favorite Moana at the newly revitalized Earvin “Magic” Johnson Park. At each event, guests can get their fill of free popcorn, candy, swag bags from sponsors, and more to enjoy with their movie.

For more information and to RSVP for tickets, please visit: ridley-thomas.lacounty.gov.