photo courtesy of the city of Beverly Hills

The city of Beverly Hills celebrated 100 years of independence on April 24, when the Beverly Hills Historical Society screened a documentary at Greystone Mansion’s Theater that highlighted the stars who helped make the city.

The film, titled “The Stars who Saved Our City,” details how eight of the city’s most famous residents, including western film star Tom Mix, heartthrob Rudolph Valentino and director Fred Niblo, campaigned to save Beverly Hills from being annexed into Los Angeles.

“Monday, April 24, marks the election that kept Beverly Hills an independent city,” Councilwoman Sharona Nazarian said. “A day filled with celebration as we cherish those who had the love and inspiration to make Beverly Hills a star of its own.”

Phil Savenick of the Beverly Hills Historical Society, left, joined City Councilwoman Lili Bosse, Vice Mayor Lester Friedman, Mayor Julian Gold, Councilman John Mirisch and Nazarian.