What It Was: California Coast - A Hilarious Journey Down Memory Lane (That May Not Be Entirely Accurate)
Ah, the California Coast. Land of sun-kissed surfers, Hollywood stars with questionable tans, and enough scenic beauty to make a grizzly bear shed a tear (or maybe that was the eucalyptus fumes?). Recently, I embarked on a journey (okay, it was a documentary binge-watch) titled "What It Was: California Coast," and let me tell you, it was a wild ride.
Dodging Landslides and Unpacking History (with a pinch of embellishment)
The documentary promised a "scenic road trip" along the coast. Now, scenic is one way to put it. There were definitely some epic vistas, but let's be honest, they also spent a good chunk of time talking about landslides. Apparently, California's dramatic coastline comes with a price – the constant threat of Mother Nature shoving a mountain at your convertible. Word to the wise: pack a sturdy helmet and maybe a lifetime supply of Dramamine – you never know when the Pacific Coast Highway might decide to become an off-road adventure.
But hey, it wasn't all about dodging rogue rocks! We also got a healthy dose of California history, served up with a side of Hollywood gossip (because, let's face it, is there really any other kind of California history?). We learned about the rise and fall of beach towns, the eccentric millionaires who built some truly bizarre mansions (seriously, that avocado-shaped house still haunts my dreams), and of course, the filming locations of all your favorite 80s teen movies. Who knew that spot where Ferris Bueller impersonated a parking valet was just down the road from where they filmed Point Break?
Surfing, Celebrities, and Everything In-Between (with a healthy dose of exaggeration)
Of course, no California Coast trip would be complete without some surfing. The documentary featured interviews with legendary wave riders, each one more effortlessly cool than the last. They talked about catching waves the size of skyscrapers (with a sprinkling of questionable CGI effects, but hey, it made for good TV), and the spiritual connection they felt with the ocean (which mostly seemed to involve a lot of salt water in their hair).
Speaking of salt water, there were also plenty of celebrity sightings. We saw grainy footage of a young Clint Eastwood strolling down Venice Beach (though it could have just been a particularly grumpy seagull), and a documentary crew somehow managed to capture a glimpse of George Clooney having lunch at a Malibu cafe (because apparently, even celebrities need sustenance).
The Verdict: Equal Parts Beautiful and Bizarre (mostly bizarre)
So, what was the California Coast, according to this documentary? It was a sun-drenched, landslide-prone, celebrity-infested wonderland. It was equal parts breathtaking beauty and questionable historical reenactments. It was a reminder that sometimes, the journey (especially if that journey involves dodging rogue boulders) is just as important as the destination.
Would I recommend "What It Was: California Coast"? Absolutely! Just be prepared for a wild ride, a healthy dose of exaggeration, and the sudden urge to buy a surfboard (even if you live in Nebraska).
