Newport Beach Historical Society to Screen 'The Story of Irvine' Documentary

The film explores the history and transformation of Irvine Ranch over 150 years.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 12:55am

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The Newport Beach Historical Society is hosting a screening of the documentary 'The Story of Irvine' on February 4 at the Lido Theatre in Newport Beach. The film spans 150 years, from when James Irvine purchased over 100,000 acres in Orange County, to the incredible transformation from agriculture to real estate in the 1960s, and beyond. The screening will include exclusive clips, extended interviews, and never-before-seen moments, as well as a Q&A with the film's director Nathan Gopen.

Why it matters

Irvine is a name that has a prominent position in the history of Newport Beach, as Rancho San Joaquin became Irvine Ranch when James Irvine purchased the tract in 1864. Coastal tracts were sold and developed into beach communities, and this ranchland was eventually incorporated as Newport Beach in 1906. The documentary provides an inside look at the making of a premier master-planned community that is recognized as a role model.

The details

The 75-minute documentary 'The Story of Irvine' explores the people, places, and pivotal moments that shaped Irvine and the surrounding region. Director Nathan Gopen has interviewed historians, architects, educators, and civic leaders to bring Orange County's layered history to life through archival footage, expert voices, and AI-assisted recreations.

  • Irvine purchased over 100,000 acres in Orange County in 1864.
  • Newport Beach was incorporated in September 1906.
  • The documentary 'The Story of Irvine' will be screened on February 4, 2026.

The players

James Irvine

Purchased the Rancho San Joaquin tract in 1864, which became known as Irvine Ranch.

Nathan Gopen

Filmmaker, multimedia producer, and founder of Diadem Productions, who created the documentary 'The Story of Irvine'.

Newport Beach Historical Society

A non-profit organization that connects people past, present and future, collects, inspires, educates, preserves and protects the unique and vibrant history of the City of Newport Beach.

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What’s next

The Newport Beach Historical Society is hosting the screening of 'The Story of Irvine' on February 4, 2026 at the Lido Theatre in Newport Beach.

The takeaway

The documentary 'The Story of Irvine' provides an in-depth look at the history and transformation of Irvine Ranch, from its origins as a vast agricultural tract to its current status as a premier master-planned community. The screening hosted by the Newport Beach Historical Society offers a unique opportunity for the public to learn about the pivotal moments and people that shaped the development of this iconic California city.