Celebrating Culture and Cinema: La Bamba Screening at CSUN
Contributed by Patricia Miller
On November 18, 2025, more than 150 participants gathered at the CSUN Armer Theatre for a special screening of the iconic 1987 film La Bamba. This event was a collaborative effort between the Department of Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures (MCLL), the International and Exchange Student Center, and Cinema and Television Arts (CTV). Proudly hosted by the College of Humanities during International Education Week, the screening honored a landmark film deeply connected to our institution.
La Bamba tells the inspiring story of Ritchie Valens, the legendary Chicano rock and roll star whose music transformed history. Recognized for its cultural significance, the film holds a place in the National Film Registry, underscoring its enduring impact.
The event was organized by Professor Patrizia Miller, a long-standing faculty member in MCLL whose passion for CSUN and commitment to creating enriching programs for the academic community has been evident for over three decades.
Acknowledging Our Partners
This celebration was made possible through the collaboration and support of many individuals and departments, including: Dr. Kent Baxter, Associate Dean, College of Humanities. Dr. Adrian Pérez-Boluda, Chair, MCLL. Dr. Marta Lopez, Director, International and Exchange Student Center, and her team. Professor Nate Thomas, Cinema and Television Arts. Shellie Hadvina, VP for Development & Alumni Relations. Cristina Mena, Director of Alumni Relations. Additional support came from a grant from Graduate Studies.
Special thanks also go to Lisa Kim, Leslie Cervantes, Jessica Skanes, Alessia Nanni Weisberg, and the Armer Theatre team—George and William—for ensuring a flawless screening experience.
An Evening with Hollywood Legends
The evening featured two extraordinary figures in the world of cinema: Bill Borden and Taylor Hackford, and it was followed by an engaging Q&A moderated by Professors Patricia Miller and Alessia Nanni-Weisberg.
Bill Borden, a CSUN alumnus and Emmy Award-winning producer, has worked on over 30 feature films, including La Bamba, End of Days, Desperado, and the global phenomenon High School Musical.
Taylor Hackford, the Academy Award-winning director of Ray, is also the acclaimed filmmaker behind An Officer and a Gentleman, The Devil’s Advocate, and Dolores Claiborne. Hackford is a former president of the Directors Guild of America.
Both guests shared invaluable insights into the creative process behind some of Hollywood’s most memorable films, offering attendees a rare glimpse into the art of storytelling.
A Celebration of Humanities and Cultural Exchange
This event was not only a tribute to a groundbreaking film but also a testament to the enduring power of the humanities in fostering cultural understanding and artistic expression.
Professor Miller and Weisberg and the organizing team will continue to collaborate to bring inspiring projects to the CSUN academic community.