A cowboy silhouetted in blue light twirls a lasso under bright spotlights and stars, next to the title “The Roping Fools: A Film By Will Fitzpatrick.”.

Film / Member Events

Documentary Screening: The Roping Fools (2025)

The Autry in Griffith Park

Admission:
Free for Autry Members | Included With Museum Admission
RSVP/Reservations:
Registration Recommended

Register Here

About the Event

Los Angeles Premiere!

The Roping Fools traces the captivating history of trick roping, from its origins with Mexican vaqueros to its evolution into a dazzling form of performance in American rodeos and popular entertainment. Blending archival footage with contemporary profiles, the film highlights the artistry, precision, and showmanship behind this uniquely Western tradition.

Along the way, it introduces a cast of unforgettable performers—from early icons like Will Rogers and Montie Montana to modern masters including Tomas Garcilazo and Loop Rawlins—whose skill and charisma brought trick roping from working practice to spectacle.

A celebration of resilience, artistry, and legacy, The Roping Fools offers a rare glimpse into this enduring yet often overlooked culture, where tradition and performance intertwine to create a mesmerizing form that continues to captivate audiences today.

The Roping Fools Documentary Trailer

Land Acknowledgment

The Autry Museum of the American West acknowledges the Gabrielino/Tongva peoples as the traditional land caretakers of Tovaangar (the Los Angeles basin and So. Channel Islands). We recognize that the Autry Museum and its campuses are located on the traditional lands of Gabrielino/Tongva peoples and we pay our respects to the Honuukvetam (Ancestors), ‘Ahiihirom (Elders) and ‘Eyoohiinkem (our relatives/relations) past, present and emerging.

Autry Museum of the American West

4700 Western Heritage Way
Los Angeles, CA 90027-1462
In Griffith Park across from the Los Angeles Zoo
Map and Directions

Free parking for Autry visitors


MUSEUM AND STORE HOURS
Tuesday⁠–⁠Friday 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Saturday–Sunday 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

DINING
Food trucks are available on select days, contact us for details at 323.495.4252.
The cafe is closed temporarily until further notice.