When it comes to how Sacramento is portrayed on screen, Lady Bird and Sacramento show two very different sides of the city — and it’s sparked plenty of conversation among local moviegoers.

Since Sacramento’s release, some Sacramentans have taken to social media to say the film missed the city’s charm, especially when compared to Lady Bird. But while those critiques aren’t without merit, it’s important to remember these two movies aren’t trying to tell the same story — and frankly, expecting them to misses the bigger picture.

Lady Bird, directed by Sacramento native Greta Gerwig, is the love letter locals wanted. It’s intimate, personal, and told through the eyes of someone who grew up here — someone who once took the city for granted, only to realize later how much it shaped her. From the aisles of Thrift Town, to the McKinley Park Rose Garden, to the grand homes of East Sacramento’s Fab 40s, Lady Bird captured the texture of the city with real affection. Even the quick shots of the Tower Bridge and small, iconic businesses tucked throughout town made Sacramento feel like a character in the story, not just a setting.

Sacramento, directed by Michael Angarano, isn’t about growing up here. It’s about two guys from Southern California who barely know the city, coming here on a whim. The Sacramento they experience is meant to be unfamiliar and open-ended — a place for new beginnings, not nostalgic memories. Their journey winds past landmarks like Gunther’s Ice Cream, the Tower Bridge, and Old Sacramento, while also taking in newer scenes along R Street, Folsom Boulevard, East Sacramento, and Downtown. But the film doesn’t linger the way Lady Bird does; it uses Sacramento more as a backdrop to a story about outsiders passing through.

Of course, to locals who know the heartbeat of this city — its neighborhoods, its restaurants, its parks, its deeply rooted culture — Sacramento might feel like it only skims the surface. It doesn’t capture the soul of the city the way Lady Bird did. But that doesn’t mean the film disrespects Sacramento; it just isn’t about it in the same way. It’s about what Sacramento can offer to people who are seeing it for the first time.

And let’s be honest: for a long time, people outside of Sacramento barely gave the city a second thought. It was written off as a “cow town,” a place you drove through on your way to Tahoe or the Bay Area. But those of us who live here — who know the vibrant food scene, the deep history, the creativity bubbling up from every neighborhood — have always known better.

The real story here isn’t whether a movie shows enough tree-lined streets or riverside sunsets. It’s that Sacramento is finally being seen. Whether through the lens of someone who loves it deeply or someone discovering it with fresh eyes, Sacramento is stepping into the spotlight.

What used to be California’s best-kept secret is no longer a secret at all. The once-overlooked state capital — full of charm, heart, and grit — is having its moment. People are coming here on purpose now, drawn by the very things Sacramentans have loved all along.

And whether Hollywood gets it perfect every time or not, one thing is clear: Sacramento isn’t just a backdrop anymore. It’s the main character.

Sacramento is quickly carving a place for itself in Hollywood, attracting top filmmakers and high-profile actors who are finding the city’s historic landmarks and neighborhoods an ideal backdrop. This transformation can be traced back to 2017, when acclaimed director Greta Gerwig put her hometown on the cinematic map with Lady Bird—and the momentum hasn’t slowed since.

In 2017, Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird brought Sacramento to the big screen in a heartfelt coming-of-age story. Gerwig, who grew up in Sacramento’s River Park neighborhood, captured the city with a mix of nostalgia and admiration, painting a portrait of both the city’s beauty and character. Iconic Sacramento locations like the Tower Bridge, Thrift Town, East Sacramento, and McKinley Park’s Rose Garden were featured throughout the film, highlighting the city’s distinct atmosphere. The film was a critical success, earning five Academy Award nominations and becoming a cultural touchstone for Sacramento’s artistic spirit.

Lady Bird not only garnered Oscar buzz but also glamorized Sacramento as a place rich with potential for filmmakers seeking an authentic, lesser-seen Californian setting. The film’s success sparked a trend that has continued to grow, attracting filmmakers who are now recognizing the city as more than just a stop between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

This year, two major films have further cemented Sacramento’s Hollywood status. The first, Sacramento, directed by Michael Angarano, is a road-trip comedy starring Michael Cera and Kristen Stewart. The film follows Rickey, a lively and adventurous young man, and Glenn, his old friend settled into a more conventional lifestyle. Their spontaneous road trip from Los Angeles to Sacramento showcases the city as a destination, rather than just a setting. Sacramento premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 8, 2024, and its distribution rights were picked up by Vertical, a company known for supporting independent films with strong narratives. While the film doesn’t yet have a general release date, the buzz surrounding its Tribeca debut has spotlighted Sacramento’s appeal as a setting for stories of adventure and personal discovery.

The second major production this year is an untitled crime thriller directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, starring big-name actors Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, and Benicio Del Toro. Filming took place across California, but Sacramento’s County Administration Building and County Courthouse provided ideal backdrops for the film’s storyline. Originally titled The Battle of Baktan Cross, the movie’s atmospheric urban scenes highlight Sacramento’s modern architecture and government buildings. Scheduled for release by Warner Bros. Pictures on August 8, 2025, this crime thriller is likely to further Sacramento’s reputation as a versatile and evocative film setting.

As more filmmakers turn their lenses toward Sacramento, the city is witnessing an artistic revival that goes beyond cinema. The growing interest in Sacramento as a film location is already having positive effects on local tourism and the arts, and city leaders are optimistic about the possibilities for future productions. Sacramento’s charm lies in its authenticity—its blend of historic landmarks, lush parks, and unique urban feel offers filmmakers a backdrop that is both aesthetically compelling and affordable.

With Lady Bird paving the way and recent films like Sacramento and Paul Thomas Anderson’s thriller adding to the city’s cinematic prestige, Sacramento’s Hollywood moment seems to be just beginning. As the city continues to attract filmmakers drawn to its unique landscapes, Sacramento is poised to become a mainstay on the silver screen for years to come.

Sacramento's Discovery Park is set to reverberate with the thunderous sounds of rock and metal as Aftershock Festival proudly unveils its full lineup for the much-anticipated 2024 edition. The four-day extravaganza, running from October 10 to October 13, promises a headbanging experience like never before, featuring iconic bands such as Slayer, Slipknot, Motley Crue, Iron Maiden, and a slew of other electrifying acts.

Aftershock Festival has earned its reputation as one of the premier rock and metal gatherings in the United States, drawing fans from across the country to Sacramento. With an unyielding commitment to delivering an unforgettable musical experience, the festival organizers have once again curated a lineup that caters to the diverse tastes of rock and metal enthusiasts.

Headlining Acts: Legends Unleashed
The heavy metal pioneers Slayer are set to headline one of the festival nights, promising an intense and adrenaline-pumping performance that will undoubtedly leave fans in awe. Known for their ferocious live shows and relentless energy, Slayer's inclusion in the lineup adds a level of excitement that is hard to match.

Joining Slayer at the top of the bill is the masked and enigmatic Slipknot. Renowned for their theatrical performances, Slipknot is sure to bring a visual and auditory spectacle to Aftershock Festival, leaving fans craving for more of their signature blend of chaos and musical brilliance.

Motley Crue, the iconic rock band that has left an indelible mark on the music industry, is also set to grace the Aftershock stage. With their catalog of timeless hits and a reputation for putting on electrifying live shows, Motley Crue's performance is bound to be a highlight of the festival.

The legendary Iron Maiden, with their elaborate stage setups and unparalleled musicianship, will bring their unique brand of British heavy metal to Aftershock, ensuring a memorable experience for fans of all ages.

Diverse Lineup: More Than Just Headliners
Beyond the headliners, Aftershock Festival boasts a diverse lineup that spans various sub-genres of rock and metal. From classic rock to modern metalcore, the festival caters to a wide spectrum of musical preferences. Some of the notable acts set to grace the stage include Disturbed, Judas Priest, Pantera, Breaking Benjamin, Static-X and many more.

With multiple stages set up throughout Discovery Park, fans can customize their festival experience by hopping between stages to catch their favorite bands or discover new ones.

Aftershock Festival Returns to Sacramento
Discovery Park in Sacramento has become the epicenter of rock and metal for Aftershock Festival, providing an ideal backdrop for the sonic assault that awaits attendees. The sprawling park offers ample space for festival-goers to immerse themselves in the music, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and shared passion for rock and metal.

As Aftershock Festival returns to Sacramento in 2024, the anticipation among fans is palpable. The city, known for its rich musical history, is ready to once again host thousands of music enthusiasts for four days of headbanging, moshing, and pure rock and metal bliss.

Tickets and Information
Tickets for Aftershock Festival 2024 are on sale now, with various options available to suit different preferences. From single-day passes to full festival access, fans can choose the ticket that best fits their schedule and budget. Additionally, the festival website provides detailed information on accommodations, transportation, and other important details to help attendees plan their Aftershock experience seamlessly.

Aftershock Festival 2024 is shaping up to be a monumental celebration of rock and metal, with a lineup that pays homage to the genre's legends while embracing the diversity and innovation of the current music scene. Sacramento's Discovery Park will once again become a haven for music lovers, as they gather to revel in the power and intensity of live rock and metal performances. Don't miss the chance to be part of this unforgettable experience!

As the sun dipped below the Sacramento skyline, casting a warm glow over the city, music enthusiasts from near and far gathered for the highly anticipated 2023 Sol Blume Music Festival. Storms in the earlier part of the year caused the festival to postpone a few months due to flooding. Despite the delay, this annual celebration of diverse sounds and vibrant performances once again proved to be a highlight on the music festival calendar. Let's take a closer look at the memorable moments and musical magic that unfolded during this year's event.

One of the standout features of the 2023 Sol Blume Music Festival was its eclectic and diverse lineup. The festival organizers curated a stellar roster of artists ensuring there was something for everyone. From soulful R&B to energetic hip-hop and indie-pop, the stages were graced by a mix of established acts and rising stars, creating an immersive and inclusive musical experience.

Headliners like Brent Faiyaz, Kehlani, Ella Mai, Isaiah Rashad and Joey Bada$$ drew massive crowds, delivering performances that showcased their exceptional talent and stage presence. Meanwhile, emerging artists such as Samaria from nearby Oakland seized the opportunity to captivate new audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the minds of festival-goers.

The Sol Blume Music Festival has become renowned for its laid-back and friendly atmosphere, and 2023 was no exception. The tree shaded grounds of Discovery Park transformed into a haven for music lovers to bask in the tunes, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and revel in the positive vibes. The festival's commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment was palpable, creating an atmosphere where diversity was celebrated, and the love for music served as a unifying force.

Beyond the music, the Sol Blume Music Festival offered a feast for the senses with its artistic installations and culinary delights. The festival grounds were adorned with visually striking installations, providing attendees with immersive and Instagram-worthy moments. Food vendors served up a diverse array of culinary delights, from local favorites to international flavors, ensuring that festival-goers were well-nourished and satisfied throughout the weekend.

Sol Blume 2023 proved to be a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to attend. With its diverse lineup, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to community engagement, the festival once again solidified its place as a must-attend event on the music festival circuit. As the sun set on another unforgettable weekend, the echoes of the performances and the collective joy of the crowd lingered, promising an even brighter future for Sol Blume in the years to come.