Sunshine Cinema: Florida in Film

Step into the spotlight with Sunshine Cinema: Florida in Film, a new, immersive exhibition exploring the state’s rich cinematic history. From Jacksonville’s silent film era to Palm Beach County’s starring roles in Bad Boys II, Donnie Brasco, Marley & Me, and Empire of the Ants, Florida has long shaped and been shaped by movie magic. Its beaches, swamps, cities, and towns have served as unforgettable backdrops for generations of film.

The exhibition will feature original artifacts, interactive displays, and rare archival footage that highlight Florida’s unique role as both a setting and a character in film history. Visitors can explore iconic costumes, era-defining soundtracks, and evolving film technologies that brought these stories to life on screen.

Sunshine Cinema will spotlight milestones like Norman Studios’ groundbreaking 1920s “race films,” which broke racial barriers by starring Black actors in leading, dignified roles during an era of segregation. It will also evoke the nostalgia of drive-in movie nights under the stars. Celebrating the power of film to connect us across time and place, this exhibition invites you to discover the magic that made Florida a true star of the silver screen.