Chris Pine is well-known for his roles in Hollywood blockbusters, but what many might not know is his deep appreciation for Americana and craftsmanship. In his Los Angeles home, Pine has a 1965 Airstream, a beautifully restored vintage travel trailer, parked in his front yard, and it speaks volumes about his values of slowing down and appreciating the artistry of the past.
Discovering the 1965 Airstream: A Story of Restoration and Craft
For Pine, the Airstream is not just a travel trailer; it’s a piece of art. He was drawn to it because of its focus on quality and craftsmanship. The restoration of the Airstream was done by a former cameraman from Jimmy Kimmel Live!, who found his passion in both Airstreams and ceramics. “I don’t know, like… cars are made out of plastic now. This is made out of wood and metal and this beautiful, recessed lighting,” Pine shares with pride.
The Airstream has become a sanctuary where Pine can reflect on life. The vintage trailer reminds him of a slower pace—one that values the journey over the destination. It’s this sense of nostalgia and love for craftsmanship that fuels his worldview, even as Hollywood pushes for rapid advancements and immediate gratification.
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Watch Chris Pine open up about his early career, epic car collection, and new children’s book!
Living in a World of Rapid Technology: Pine’s Alternative Approach
Pine contrasts the modern world’s rush for speed and technology with his personal philosophy of living life slowly and intentionally. “Before GPS on your phone, if you were in a new city and you needed directions to a café, you’d ask the hotel front desk. You could get lost, but in getting lost, you see things,” Pine reflects. This perspective is what he hopes to embody, not just in his travels, but in his everyday life.
Hollywood Roots and a Love for Nostalgia
Growing up in Los Angeles, Pine was surrounded by the world of entertainment, with his parents, Robert Pine and Gwynne Gilford, both being actors. However, his love for the past and the charm of a bygone era sets him apart from the fast-paced entertainment industry. His home and interests reflect this balance of modern life and nostalgia.
Alongside his beloved Airstream, Pine has an impressive classic car collection. He is “fascinated by and madly in love with” vintage cars, something he holds dear as part of his lifestyle of embracing history and craftsmanship.
Chris Pine’s New Children’s Book: A Heartfelt Message for Young Minds
In addition to his passion for antiques and craftsmanship, Pine is venturing into the world of children’s literature with his debut book When Digz the Dog Met Zurl the Squirrel. The story was inspired by his two rescue pups and his love for Dr. Seuss books. “Those books were delicious to read out loud to myself,” he says. With playful rhymes and a musical quality, Pine hopes the book will be enjoyable for parents reading it to their children for the hundredth time.
The deeper message of the story speaks to the power of empathy and understanding. “What if the frustration and anger that these two animals seem to have toward one another comes from a place of their own vulnerability?” Pine reflects. This underlying theme encourages readers, young and old, to understand each other’s stories and find common ground.
Understanding Empathy and Building Friendships
In Pine’s world, empathy is key. He believes that the story’s two animal characters, Digz the dog and Zurl the squirrel, reflect how people—like bullies—may act out of their own pain and vulnerabilities. “Maybe if you understood what happened to the bully, you can repair relationships and move on with love,” he says.
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Check out another video of a DIY renovated 1965 Airstream trailer turned into a stunning tiny house!
Chris Pine’s outlook on life invites us all to take a step back, breathe, and consider how we engage with the world around us. His vintage Airstream, classic car collection, and new children’s book are all part of a lifestyle that values the beauty of craftsmanship, the lessons of the past, and the importance of understanding others.
If you’re curious to see the Airstream and hear more about Pine’s journey through the world of craftsmanship and children’s literature, be sure to check out the full tour on his YouTube channel.