Presentations

Jim is an accomplished public speaker, author, and historian who offers unique and entertaining perspectives on California gay and lesbian history, Jewish identity, and Bay Area-related movies. He is currently available for bookings with the following four talks, as well as readings, workshops, and more. For availability, rates, and other information, please send him an email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

A talk with video clips by Jim Van Buskirk

Shortly after Alcatraz opened as a federal prison in 1934, its career as a setting for movies began.

A talk with film clips by Jim Van Buskirk

The Golden Gate Bridge has probably starred in more movies than any other American architectural icon.

A talk with slides and film clips by Jim Van Buskirk

San Francisco has appeared in hundreds of movies and television series, some famous, others obscure, from Eric von Stroheim's 1924 Greed to Dirty Harry to Zodiac.

Read more: My Grandmother's Suitcase

A talk with video clips by Jim Van Buskirk

Using trailers from mainstream movies from the 1960s and 1970s, we'll investigate Hollywood's depiction of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender characters to stimulate a lively discussion of our own understanding of sexuality and gender issues.

A talk with images presented by Jim Van Buskirk

This program offers a visual timeline of the many pioneering individuals, organizations, publications and activities in San Francisco during the 100 years leading up to the pivotal Stonewall Rebellion of 1969.

Unique Talks with Video and Slides

Starring The Rock: Alcatraz in Hollywood Movies

On Location: The Golden Gate Bridge on the Silver Screen

Starring San Francisco

My Grandmother's Suitcase

How Has Hollywood (Mis)Represented Homosexuality?

San Francisco: Chronicling the Century Before Stonewall

LGBTQ San Francisco, the Century before Stonewall