Los Angeles Plays Itself
From its distinctive neighborhoods to its architectural homes, Los Angeles has been the backdrop to countless movies. In this dazzling work, Andersen takes viewers on a whirlwind tour through the metropolis' real and cinematic history, investigating the myriad stories and legends that have come to define it, and meticulously, judiciously revealing the real city that lives beneath.
Where to watch Los Angeles Plays Itself in United States
Kanopy
Apple TV Store
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At HomeClick a service to open Los Angeles Plays Itself there. Availability last verified on June 20, 2026.
Where is Los Angeles Plays Itself streaming around the world?
| Country | Streaming on | Rent / Buy |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Kanopy | Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube |
| Canada | Hoopla | Apple TV Store |
| France | — | LaCinetek |
About Los Angeles Plays Itself
Los Angeles Plays Itself is a 2004 English-language documentary and history film directed by Thom Andersen. It has a runtime of 2h 49m. Viewers rate it 7.6/10 across 100 ratings. In United States, it is currently streaming on Kanopy.
Los Angeles Plays Itself was produced by Thom Andersen Productions and made in United States of America. It was released on July 28, 2004.
- Director
- Thom Andersen
- Writers
- Thom Andersen
- Release date
- July 28, 2004
- Original language
- English
- Status
- Released
- Country
- United States of America
- Production
- Thom Andersen Productions
Los Angeles Plays Itself cast & crew
Los Angeles Plays Itself was directed by Thom Andersen and written by Thom Andersen.
Behind the camera, cinematography is by Deborah Stratman and it was produced by Thom Andersen.
Is Los Angeles Plays Itself worth watching?
Los Angeles Plays Itself holds an audience score of 7.6/10 from 63 ratings, marking it as well-reviewed documentary films.
At 2h 49m, it's a full-evening commitment.
If you enjoy documentary and history, Los Angeles Plays Itself is worth a place on your watchlist.
How and where to watch Los Angeles Plays Itself
In United States, you can stream Los Angeles Plays Itself on Kanopy, or rent and buy it on Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Click any service above to open it directly.
Streaming rights change country by country and month by month, so the options above reflect United States today — switch your country at the top of the where-to-watch section to see availability elsewhere.
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Cast of Los Angeles Plays Itself
Encke King
Narrator (voice)
Los Angeles Plays Itself — FAQs
▸Where can I watch Los Angeles Plays Itself in United States?
Los Angeles Plays Itself is streaming on Kanopy in United States.
▸Is Los Angeles Plays Itself on Kanopy?
Yes — Los Angeles Plays Itself is currently available on Kanopy in United States.
▸What language is Los Angeles Plays Itself in?
Los Angeles Plays Itself is originally in English. Subtitle and dub options vary by streaming service.
▸How long is Los Angeles Plays Itself?
Los Angeles Plays Itself runs 2 hours 49 minutes (169 minutes).
▸What is Los Angeles Plays Itself rated?
It holds a 7.6/10 audience score from 63 ratings.
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