While the weather has been downright lovely the past few days, last week’s scorching heat had me deliriously contemplating a microwave popcorn purchase during a grocery run for the sole purpose of leaving it in my car to see if it would pop. (I still have yet to test the theory.)
In honor of those intemperate temps, I’m kicking off a new newsletter series: Netflix & Chill, Literally — a roundup of movies and TV shows to stream while you hide from the heat. This month, I’m spotlighting five productions filmed right here in the desert.
xo, Lindsay
OCEAN’S ELEVEN
With an all-star cast and Clooney and Pitt at their movie-star best, this 2001 caper classic never gets old. Though mostly set and filmed in Las Vegas, a swanky Old Las Palmas pad logs some prominent screen time as Elliott Gould’s Sin City estate — its retro rock walls and sprawling yard beautifully showcased throughout. In real life, the 1957 mid-century gem was designed by A. Quincy Jones for controversial Chicago businessman Jerome Robinson (aka “Mr. Parking Meter”) and is now known as the Jerome J. Robinson House.
Where to watch: Free on Netflix
ALPHA DOG
This true-life drama, based on the 2000 kidnapping and murder of West Hills teen Nicholas Markowitz, is dark, but captivating. And it features some stellar desert locales, including the E. Stewart Williams-designed Koerner Residence and the storied Caliente Tropics Resort, which boasts its very own true crime ties! The tiki-themed property was initially established by Ken Kimes, husband of murderous con woman Sante Kimes, aka the “Dragon Lady,” and father of her co-conspirator, Kenneth Jr.
Where to watch: Rent on Prime, Apple TV & Google Play
MACK & RITA
This 2022 Diane Keaton comedy — in which a 30-something is magically transformed into her 70-something self — is cheesy, feel-good fun in all the right ways. (Don’t let the somewhat slow start deter you.) While most of the film takes place in L.A., a few key scenes were shot right here in the desert. Keaton’s magical transformation takes place in a past life regression tent set up in an empty lot next to Copley’s, and Birba makes a brief but memorable cameo as an oh-so-Palm Springs bachelorette brunch spot.
Where to watch: Free on Hulu
SINATRA IN PALM SPRINGS
This heartwarming doc explores Frank Sinatra’s longtime love affair with the desert — from his generous philanthropic work to the many homes he kept throughout the valley. It also highlights his favorite local haunts, some of which, like Melvyn’s, The Purple Room, and Lord Fletcher’s, are still around today! (The latter has been closed for several years, but its iconic interior remains intact — and it was recently purchased by new owners with plans to reopen!) The film is a nostalgic look at Palm Springs’ golden era — and the joy Sinatra found here.
Where to watch: Free on Prime Video
TRIXIE MOTEL
This reality series and the motel at its center spark serious joy for this pink-loving viewer. Cheeky and whimsical, the show follows drag queen and RuPaul’s Drag Race favorite Trixie Mattel and her partner as they transform a rundown Palm Springs motel into a cotton candy-colored dreamland, with help from local design expert (and my friend!) David Rios. For the full Trixie experience, grab a day pass to lounge by the pool — then head to the fabulously pink Barbara Bar for a post-swim cocktail or two. (Reservations required.)
Where to watch: Free on HBO Max