the BEAT

the BEAT of the week: L.A. Zine Fest

2012-02-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

In this day and age of blogs and Twitters, Tumblrs and Pinterest boards, there's still nothing more D.I.Y. than the classic 'zine. "A broad form, zines can contain anything and are not limited to text or graphics. In Los Angeles in the 1940s, zines contained the writings of science-fiction fans and recorded essential elements of the early days of the culture; in the 1970s and 80s, punk zines like Flipside and Slash reviewed records, shows, and told stories of the punk scene from Hollywood and the South Bay to East L.A."

That's a description given by the L.A. Zine Fest, a new event created in order to celebrate the beloved form. Taking place at The Last Bookstore (what an appropriate name) this Sunday, the fest will feature a number of zinemakers and artists, showing off works that are old and new. There will also be panels that'll explore the culture and history of the zines, like Meltdown Comics giving a talk on making and selling minicomics in 'Meltdown University' and the Machine Project discussing how to create your own D.I.Y. space. The ever-entertaining Henry Rollins will also be on hand to interview documentarian V. Vale.

Being surrounded by all this D.I.Y. energy is enough to get anyone inspired. Who knows what you might be able to create yourself? Long live the zine!

The L.A. Zine Fest takes place this Sunday, Feb. 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the second floor or the Spring Arts Tower and in The Last Bookstore, located at 453 S. Spring St. in downtown. The entire event is free.

-- Chau Tu

Click It. BEAT picks of the week - Valentine's edition.

2012-02-12T15:10:00.000-08:00

Nothing says "Happy Valentine's Day!" like chocolate and flowers.

Favorite picks for chocolate gift-giving:

Chocolove bars if you're keeping it simple (Toffee & Almonds in milk chocolate is my favorite)

See's

Teuscher champagne truffles

Theo Chocolate caramels (above), sprinkled with Himalayan pink sea salt

Vosges

Good flower choices:

Lilies

Orchids

Peonies

Roses

Or, ask a florist to help create a special bouquet!

And a few girly items for the big (Tues)day: red nail polish for a fresh mani/pedi, a bottle of bubbly, a soundtrack, and something sexy to wear to bed!

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: shopterrain.com

the BEAT of the week: Oscar-nominated shorts at the Nuart.

2012-02-07T09:00:00.000-08:00

Ah, Oscar season is upon us once again. I, admittedly, have some reservations about the nominees among this year's pack, but I still have faith in one category: the shorts.

They're often overlooked and forgotten within the short span of a minute and a half (or however long they give you for a speech), but the quick spurts of passionate cinematic work are usually quite fun and moving. They're perfect for the short attention span. They might even clue you in to filmmakers to watch. And if anything, they'll surely help your Oscar party ballot.

So here's your chance to check them out for yourself! The Nuart will be screening the animated and live-action nominees up to the Oscars themselves. Have a gander and let me know what you think (The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore is quite beautiful, yes?)!

The Oscar Nominated Short Films of 2012 will screen beginning this Friday, Feb. 10 at the Nuart Theatre, located at 11272 Santa Monica Blvd. in West L.A.

-- Chau Tu

Click It. BEAT picks of the week.

2012-02-02T07:00:00.000-08:00

I can't stop making these St-Germain cocktails!

Drive just came out on DVD.

I'm looking forward to reading the new Hollywood issue of Vanity Fair this weekend on the plane to LA! Maybe my boyfriend will lend me his copy of 740 Park for the ride back to NYC.

The much-anticipated Jason Wu for Target collection hits stores Sunday.

Lana Del Rey is going to be at Amoeba Hollywood for a free in-store performance on Tuesday (February 7).

If you're thinking up Valentine's day date ideas, The Philadelphia Story is screening at Amoeba Hollywood next weekend.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

the BEAT of the week: Weegee's 'Naked Hollywood' at MOCA.

2012-01-31T09:00:00.000-08:00

The photographer known as Weegee (real name Arthur Felling) became famous for his stark and unflinchingly realistic pictures of crime scenes in New York. But in 1947, he moved to Los Angeles, and he didn't spare our fair city from his lens. Out came photos of Hollywood stars, strippers, costume shops and naked mannequins, in a style that could only be described as 'naked.'
"Naked Hollywood: Weegee in Los Angeles" is the first museum exhibition devoted to the work the photographer produced in Southern California. It tells the story not only of a photographer who worked diligently to portray an unashamed world, but also of that of the strange, strange world itself -- Los Angeles. You might be surprised to see what Weegee unearthed.

"Naked Hollywood: Weegee in Los Angeles" is showing until Feb. 27 at MOCA, located at 250 S. Grand Ave. in downtown.

-- Chau Tu

Photo credit: MOCA

the BEAT of the week: dineLA restaurant week.

2012-01-24T09:00:00.001-08:00

It's that fabulous time of year again: dineLA's winter edition of restaurant week. For two (!) awesome weeks in Los Angeles, you can have a taste of what some of this city's best restaurants have to offer in the form of discounted prix-fixe (and totally fulfilling) dinners and lunches.

My picks for this time 'round? Cliff's Edge boasts a super-romantic jungle-like patio hidden in the middle of Silver Lake, and now also has a new chef -- James Beard-nominated Benjamin Bailly, a la Fraiche and Petrossian. There's also the brand spanking new Short Order, the latest offering from Mozza's Nancy Silverton. And then there is the completely buzzworthy Picca, where you'll surely be pleasantly satisfied by the creative and tasteful offerings (do yourself a favor and order that delectably smooth avocado cocktail too).

dineLA deals apply now until Jan. 27, then Jan. 29-Feb. 3. Check out the entire restaurant list here, and let us know where you're planning on grubbing. Happy eating!

-- Chau Tu

Click It. BEAT picks of the week.

2012-01-22T07:40:00.000-08:00

On a rainy (or, in NY, snowy!) weekend, staying in and reading is the best thing to do.

Simon Doonan, of Barneys fame, just released his fifth book, Gay Men Don't Get Fat.

A few other books in my "queue": Furious Love: Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and the Marriage of the Century, Then Again (Diane Keaton's memoir), and The Beautiful and Damned (with the fancy cover!).

Michelle Williams as Marilyn Monroe in the February issue of GQ, out now.

If you're heading to the movies, I recommend Contraband.

Girls in New York City generally wear darker nail polish than L.A. ladies do ... I followed suit yesterday with a manicure of Essie's Devil's Advocate. My favorite pale polish is Adore-a-Ball, also by Essie.

If you like Lana Del Rey, despite her much-discussed sort of awkward SNL performances last week, you can pre-order her album Born to Die on Amazon, out January 31.

If you're making snacks for the football games today, read these essential guacamole tips from Rick Bayless.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Fragments via Dolly Rocker Girl

the BEAT of the week: Damien Hirst at the Gagosian.

2012-01-17T09:00:00.001-08:00

From encasing a shark in formaldehyde to encrusting a skull with diamonds, artist Damien Hirst has become world-famous for his creative risks. But the guy also knows how to market.

Take his latest social experiment: Hirst is holding his exhibition "The Complete Spot Paintings: 1986-2011" at 11 different Gagosian Galleries across the world -- simultaneously. More than 300 of the well-known spot paintings are included in the exhibition, and apparently have been divided amongst the galleries according to locality.

And get this -- if you happen to take on the Complete Spot Challenge, which means visiting all of the galleries (including Hong Kong, Athens, Rome and so on) in a matter of about two months to see all of the paintings, you can recieve a signed spot print by Hirst, dedicated personally to you. Considering one of his pieces easily take in tens of millions of dollars, I'd wager that somehow could actually be worth the trouble.

But if you're not inclined to travel the world to see spots, you can simply visit our own Gagosian Gallery in Beverly Hills. The exhibit will continue until Feb. 10. Spot on!

Damien Hirst's "The Complete Spot Paintings: 1986-2011" is showing until Feb. 10 at the Gagosian Gallery, located at 456 N. Camden Dr. in Beverly Hills.

-- Chau Tu

Click It. BEAT picks of the week.

2012-01-15T10:45:00.000-08:00

Since discovering Clinique's Black Honey (above, far left) lipstick in the late 1990's, it has been a constant fixture in my makeup bag. Now, Clinique has expanded their "Almost" line by seven other shades--from pale pink Shy Honey (second from left) to a bright and punchy Flirty Honey (far right). I'm curious to try the more muted shades, like Chic Honey and Lovely Honey.

In the February issue of In Style, Faith Hill shares her beauty must-haves, including a BEAT favorite, Morrocanoil hair treatment.

A long weekend is the perfect time to catch a museum exhibit you've been meaning to see ... California Design, 1930 - 1965: "Living in a Modern Way" is at LACMA until June 3.

We love a getaway weekend in Vegas, and with some worthy upcoming concerts at the very stylish Cosmopolitan hotel, there's even more reason to head for the desert. David Gray on February 24, the Shins on April 13, and Snow Patrol on May 12. Tickets available now through Ticketmaster.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: via nymag.com

Click It. BEAT picks of the week.

2012-01-07T19:40:00.000-08:00

I saw this dress at J. Crew today (it was sold out), isn't it perfect?

LudoBites is coming to Lemon Moon (I ate many lunches--and cookies!--from here in the summer of 2007, it's fresh and delicious) later this month and for most of February, make your reservations Tuesday.

Coldplay at the Hollywood Bowl (May 1, 2, and 4) tickets are going on sale, presale is Sunday 10:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m., and the password is singer.

Chanel's spring 2012 nail polish colors (named April, May, and June (a coral-like pastel peach) are great!

Jeff Garlin (Jeff from Curb Your Enthusiasm) will be at Book Soup Sunday at 4:00 p.m. discussing and signing his new book, Curbing It.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: jcrew.com

the BEAT of the week: "Portlandia" streaming on IFC

2012-01-03T12:23:00.000-08:00

The secret's coming out: Portlandia is how I spent my (non-)winter vacation. With a whopping total of six episodes, I whizzed through the first season (currently streaming on instant Netflix) in a simple matter of hours, and came out at the end pretty humored. It helped that I visited Portland earlier this year and was actually aware of some of its idiosyncrasies -- biking, hippies and major unemployment rate among them -- plus the season had a number of great guest stars like Jason Sudeikis and Aimee Mann, but I think keeping an open mind about its strange humor will get you some laughs. Fred Armisen isn't even one of my favorite people (is he really still playing Obama?), but Carrie Brownstein really steals the show. Riot grrls are funny, who knew?

But you decide for yourself. IFC is streaming a full episode of season two on its website right now, and already it boasts Jeff Goldblum and Eddie Vedder as guest stars. So take a trip to the lovely land of Portlandia, where the '90s never died. Season two officially premieres on Jan. 6th.

Cacao!

-- Chau Tu

ps. And if you love it just enough, Carrie and Fred are doing a Portlandia tour and hitting the Echoplex on Jan. 17th. It's sold out, but you can probably scout for tickets outside or on Craigslist.

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T23:00:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! Here's to 2012! We look forward to another year of blogging ... thank you, as always, for reading.

-- the BEAT

Photo credit: tssphoto.com

Click It. BEAT picks of the week.

2011-12-31T09:35:00.000-08:00

In honor of New Year's Eve, some drink recipes from the BEAT:

... or just simple ice-old beer

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: the BEAT

the BEAT of the week: The Weeknd's "Echoes of Silence."

2011-12-27T09:00:00.000-08:00

Hands down, The Weeknd's spooky, sexy and all-around down and dirty "House of Balloons" is one of my favorite albums of the year. And one of the best parts about it? It was simply just a mixtape, available on his website, for free. Yep. The best things in life really are free.

And just in time for your New Year's Eve festivities, The Weeknd's got a brand new free mix called "Echoes of Silence" to jam during your pre-partying, surely to set the mood right. You can download it here, as well as past mixtapes "Thursday" and the as-yet-untoppable "House of Balloons" here (just press the arrows on the right to scroll to the other albums).

Enjoy! And happy new year!

Visit The Weeknd's website here.

-- Chau Tu

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T11:00:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas, readers!

-- the BEAT

Click It. BEAT picks of the week.

2011-12-24T20:25:00.000-08:00

Happy Holiday weekend!

How amazing would it be to see Woody Allen and his jazz band perform? He'll be at UCLA's Royce Hall January 29.

A good Bûche du Noël makes Christmas that much better.

Perfect classic ballet flats.

A new Atwater/Glendale spot for microbrews.

A deliciously decadent French Toast Casserole I like to make on Christmas morning (it would be a nice start to the new year on Jan. 1 too!).

I love this Breakfast at Tiffany's sleep mask I got as a birthday gift this year - a must for long flights!

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: nederlanderconcerts.com

the BEAT of the week: "Battle Royale" at the Cinefamily

2011-12-20T10:41:00.000-08:00

Cinefamily -- the nonprofit organization running the Silent Movie Theater on Fairfax -- has been killing it as of late. Not only did they just finish the crazy feat of a 24-hour telethon complete with entertainment from none other than Spike Jonze, Stephen Merritt of the Magnetic Fields, Jonathan Gold, No Age, Michael Cera and more, but they've also managed to book some great films lately. Just finished was the first official L.A. run of a great -- and completely intense -- movie called We Need to Talk About Kevin, starring the always mesmerizing Tilda Swinton.

And now coming up beginning this weekend, Cinefamily is set to screen the controversial Japanese cult film Battle Royale in its first North American run ever. Ever! And Cinefamily got it for one whole week. If you don't know, the premise of the film revolves around a society where the government sends whole classes of 9th grade students to a remote island where they're forced to fight each other off to the death, one by one. And from the looks of it, the film doesn't shy away from being bloody and gory but altogether thrilling. Surely an inventive -- if not gruesomely fun -- way to spend the holidays in the winter wasteland known as L.A. in December.

And, since we're all in the giving spirit these days, why not extend that further to the Cinefamily? Members get to go to nearly every screening and event for free, and judging by what they've been able to book for the last month alone, 2012 is only yet to get better. A good gift for a friend, family member or yourself! Plus, you can get it written off in your taxes! Sad as it is, indie films are finding it more and more difficult to find places to screen out here in L.A. (of all cities!), so let's support one of the best places that still does. Become a member or donate here.

Cinefamily programs the Silent Movie Theater, located at 611 N. Fairfax Ave. in Mid-City. Check out the schedule of screenings here.

-- Chau Tu

Click It. BEAT picks of the week.

2011-12-17T19:05:00.000-08:00

Hilarious, stylish, and very New York--The Last Days of Disco.

Get tickets now for the Red Hot Chili Peppers at the Staples Center (and Ryan Adams at the Walt Disney Concert Hall!), both in February.

Sarabeth's preserves really are that good--a jar would make a delicious stocking stuffer!

I admit, I'd like a bottle of Kourt is Red-y for a Pedi by Nicole by OPI.

If you're going to see a movie on an IMAX screen, make it Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol!

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: moviefone.com

the BEAT of the week: Live read of 'The Princess Bride,' with Jason Reitman.

2011-12-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

This is going to be a fun one. The last time Jason Reitman put on one of these 'Live Reads' for LACMA, he corralled up none less than Natalie Portman, Steve Carell, Pierce Brosnan, Mindy Kaling and Ken Jeong for a reading of The Apartment, and before that he got Jennifer Garner, Patton Oswalt, Aaron Paul and James Van Der Beek to do The Breakfast Club. All the castmates are announced on Reitman's Twitter the week of the reading, and the readings were all full of fun surprises.

So this time around, Reitman's doing the '80s classic, The Princess Bride. Of course it'll be difficult to top Billy Crystal, but admit that you can't wait to hear the line "Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die."

Live read of The Princess Bride, directed Jason Reitman takes place this Thursday at 7:30pm at LACMA, located at 5900 Wilshire Blvd. in Mid-City. It's currently standby only, but worth the wait if you can get there early.

-- Chau Tu

Click It. BEAT picks of the week.

2011-12-08T19:15:00.000-08:00

This weekend, I'm very excited about a Tex-Mex-themed Christmas party (the invite said "Feliz Nav, Y'all!") we're attending in Brooklyn. There will be margaritas (my recipe here) and queso--and other delights from the Homesick Texan cookbook.

Another book from my mental Christmas list: The Perfectly Imperfect Home: How to Decorate & Live Well (by Deborah Needleman, Domino magazine's founding editor).

Two comedies I'm hoping to see this weekend: The Sitter, and Young Adult. And maybe a rental of The Hangover Part II on DVD, if the video store has any left.

The LudoTruck will be at Echo Park's Sunset Beer Company tomorrow night, 7:00 p.m.

Get some Scoops ice cream afterward for a sweet start to the weekend, the brown bread flavor is really interesting and delicious!

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: homesicktexan.blogspot.com

the BEAT of the week: David Lynch at Amoeba.

2011-12-06T09:00:00.000-08:00

The L.A.-loving David Lynch has always been known for the striking sound design in his films, but now he's expressing his noise skills in another way: a solo album. Crazy Clown Time is Lynch's first official album, after having written lyrics for others and curated compilations (2009's Dark Night of the Soul). One of the songs features the Yeah Yeah Yeah's Karen O on vocals, but otherwise Lynch takes the lead on the album, a strange, electro-poppish sort of creation.

You can ask Lynch about the album yourself when he makes an appearance at Amoeba tonight. He'll be signing Crazy Clown Time (and one other item, if you wish) and will surely be entertaining should you have some time with him. Get there early -- Lynch loves L.A., but L.A. may love him back even more.

David Lynch will be signing at 7pm tonight at Amoeba Hollywood, located at 6400 Sunset Blvd. in Hollywood.

-- Chau Tu

Click It. BEAT picks of the week.

2011-12-01T11:40:00.000-08:00

A cute film about young love, by a young California director--Like Crazy. It's showing at the ArcLight and the Landmark, among other Los Angeles-area theaters.

Another easy-on-the eyes college (and beyond) romance--One Day--came out on DVD this week. Just after its star Anne Hathaway's real-life engagement.

Hollywood holiday cards!

Alicia Silverstone, of Clueless fame, and now one of my favorite lifestyle bloggers on thekindlife.com, is hosting a live chat on Tuesday December 6 at 4:00 p.m. PT. Join in!

Keep your hair soft and manageable this winter with Kiehl's Formula 133.

A signed copy of Marilyn: Intimate Exposures would make a great Christmas gift for any fan of the bombshell--and really, who isn't?

Marilyn's favorite face soap: Erno Laszlo Sea Mud Soap (Audrey Hepburn was a fan, too).

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: collider.com

the BEAT of the week: Short Order.

2011-11-29T09:00:00.000-08:00

Now, I have yet to try out Short Order, the new restaurant from L.A.'s beloved Amy Pressman and Nancy Silverton, since it only just opened a week and a half ago, but I guess that's not really excuse.

Because still, it's surely one to recommend. It's been 30 years in the making for Pressman and Silverton, both of whom once worked at Spago, and the latter moved on to help build Mozza. Short Order also boasts a cocktail menu created by the award-winning mixologist Julian Cox.

So expect some big lines as you wait outside the Original Farmers' Market on Third Street. Once you get in, though, be prepared for some delicious burgers, corndogs, melts, salads and custard shakes -- all artisanal and handmade. What more can you ask for?

If you make it in sometime soon, report back! I'll be in line.

Short Order is located at the Original Farmers Market at 6333 W. Third St. in Mid-City.

-- Chau Tu

Photo credit: Short Order

Click It. BEAT picks of the week.

2011-11-25T20:55:00.000-08:00

My six-year-old linen Pottery Barn duvet cover finally got so worn/thin it tore, so I'm in the market for a new one. Ever since spotting it in Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps, I've loved the idea of the one from The Bowery Hotel (above) at home.

Speaking of The Bowery, my take on a pasta dish from their restaurant, Gemma.

And more food talk -- what to do with your Thanksgiving leftovers.

If you're looking for something gripping to read -- Joan Didion's Blue Nights.

Two films to see this weekend -- A Dangerous Method, and The Artist.

Confession: I tried a chia seed Kombucha (I was so excited to see a grape flavor on the shelf, even the abundance of seeds didn't stop me!) today and was NOT into it. Recommendation: stick with the original.

Bazaar magazine Editor-in-Chief Glenda Bailey will be at Book Soup on Sunday afternoon (4:00 p.m.) discussing and signing Harper's Bazaar: Greatest Hits.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: concierge.com

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving, readers! Whether you're volunteering, cooking a feast at home, eating out (in Palm Springs, maybe!?), or taking it easy on the couch and watching Thanksgiving movies, enjoy!

Check back tomorrow for our picks of the week, from Los Angeles and beyond.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: alfredhitchcockgeek.com

the BEAT of the week: Thanksgiving volunteer opportunities.

2011-11-22T09:00:00.000-08:00

This Thursday, many of us get to celebrate all for which we are thankful with a beautiful, gut-busting meal. But as we all know, there are people out there who aren't as lucky. Take some time out this week to consider the little things you can do to make a big difference in others' lives.

Echo Park Now has a great round-up of local volunteer options for the holiday. There's the Echo's Gobble Gobble Give, where you can bring in a food dish, toiletries and blankets and clothing on Thanksgiving Day. A Place Called Home is taking pie donations. The L.A. Regional Food Bank needs help with food sorting.

It can take a couple hours but will be well worth it in the end. If you've got some time, you can lend it. Happy Thanksgiving everyone, and don't forget it's the season of giving.

-- Chau Tu

Click It. BEAT picks of the week.

2011-11-17T17:30:00.000-08:00

I didn't have much interest in seeing The Descendants based on the trailer, but after reading and hearing lots of good things (it's a New York Times Critics' Pick), we caught it this afternoon, and I highly recommend it.

Planning your Thanksgiving menu? Order delicious pie(s) from Susina Bakery.

A simple Thanksgiving side dish, Green Beans with Lemon and Brown Butter, a Tori Ritchie Tuesday Recipe.

The Kardashians (Kourtney and Khloé anyway) will be at the Grove's Barnes & Noble tomorrow night for a signing of their new book, Dollhouse.

Latest great Target / designer collaboration: Harajuku Mini by Gwen Stefani. I just wish this dress came in my size!

Clarins and FEED Projects sets at Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's (great gift ideas).

Demi Moore's divorce statement. I hope she keeps the house.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: impawards.com

the BEAT of the week: IAMSOUND at the Ace Hotel.

2011-11-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

So it's fall. That doesn't mean you're not in need of a vacation. How about a little mini-trip to the desert?

This weekend before Thanksgiving is the perfect excuse for an escape. And hey, there's actually something going on in that desert land of Palm Springs this weekend beyond the bingo games. Local record label IAMSOUND is hosting a showcase at the always-hip Ace Hotel this Saturday and Sunday, urging everyone to come poolside and enjoy some good tunes. In the lineup is one of my favorite new up-and-coming bands, Electric Guest (the frontman is Jorma Taccone's brother!), as well as Sean Bones and Fidlar. And there'll be some DJing, too, of course, with maybe some surprises?

Best part: the showcase with the bands is free for everyone, and the daytime DJ sounds by the pool come with a $16 swim pass. So all you've got to do is get yourself to the desert! As if you needed any more prodding.

The IAMSOUND Showcase takes place this Saturday and Sunday at the Ace Hotel, located at 701 E. Palm Canyon Dr. in Palm Springs.

-- Chau Tu

Click It. BEAT picks of the week.

2011-11-10T21:25:00.000-08:00

This weekend in Las Vegas, part-time Hancock Park resident and World Welterweight Champion Manny Pacquiao (above, training with Freddie Roach at Hollywood's Wild Card Boxing Gym) will fight Juan Manuel Márquez III. My money's on "PacMan".

As the holidays approach, a great card shop (locations include Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and Thousand Oaks).

J. Crew has some really fun bright colors (including vibrant flame and vintage violet)!

HBO's "Enlightened", so good--hilarious, with heart.

Immortals and J. Edgar at the theater this weekend.

Beautiful dark nail polish from NARS' Holiday 2011 collection.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: fighthubtv.com

the BEAT of the week: Hedi Slimane's "California Song" at MOCA.

2011-11-08T09:00:00.000-08:00

To put it modestly, Hedi Slimane is one of the most well-respected and most admired names in the fashion industry. He's helped build the modern fashion houses of Yves Saint Laurent and Dior Homme, and quite singlehandedly created what is the slim silhouette so common nowadays in menswear. But Slimane hasn't stopped there: he also designs album covers (Daft Punk), and writes and photographs (Vanity Fair).

His striking photography is getting its first proper West Coast show beginning this week, with the "California Song" exhibit at the MOCA Pacific Design Center. Divided into two parts, the installation will include a photo diary focused on California artists, musicians and youth culture, as well as a section with sonic, motion-photography. Select California bands, including L.A.'s own No Age and Ariel Pink, are also contributing music for the exhibition. Those two bands are slated to perform in the opening for the show on Nov. 11.

If you're familiar with any of Slimane's work, you already know that this exhibit will be beautiful and moving and distinct -- stark yet classy. You can take a peek at Slimane's photography here, in the meantime, but being able to see the work up close and personal will definitely be an experience of its own.

Hedi Slimane's "California Song" will be showing Nov. 12-Jan. 22, 2012 at the MOCA Pacific Design Center, located at in West Hollywood.

-- Chau Tu

Click It. BEAT picks of the week.

2011-11-03T00:15:00.000-07:00

Joan Didion's latest book, a memoir (not her favorite word), Blue Nights, is out this week. On Wednesday November 16, she'll be in conversation with The Los Angeles Times' David Ulin at the Los Angeles Public Library.

Tower Heist looks so good! Director Brett Ratner will be at the ArcLight Hollywood on Friday November 4 for a Q&A following the 7:15 p.m. screening.

Meet Marky Ramone (and sample his marinara sauce!) at Whole Foods this weekend--in Venice on Saturday and in Westwood Sunday.

My favorite hair ties (made in Malibu)

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Knopf

the BEAT of the week: AFI Fest.

2011-11-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles' longest running international film festival returns this week, and the lineup of films is, as usual, quite spectacular. Look out for screenings of highly anticipated movies like The Artist, Shame, Into the Abyss, Melancholia and Butter, alongside acclaimed shorts and foreign films. Tickets may be a bit hard to come by for a lot of the popular films, but ticket packages -- like $100 for access to all Special Screenings -- are still available and can be a good deal.

Stay tuned to the website for more details.

AFI Fest takes place Nov. 3-10 at various locations around the city.

***

And speaking of a film screening at AFI Fest this week -- Roman Polanski's Carnage -- the two lead actors, John C. Reilly and Christoph Waltz, are set to appear at LACMA this week. The intimate event is sure to bring some new insight into how they work and how they create the amazing performances they've become known for (Waltz is a Oscar winner, Reilly was Oscar-nominated) -- plus, considering Reilly's comedic background and Waltz's deadpan humor, there will probably be some good laughs too. They'll be interviewed by New York Times writer-at-large Charles McGrath.

A Conversation with John C. Reilly and Christoph Waltz takes place this Saturday, Nov. 5 at 3pm at LACMA, located at 5905 Wilshire Blvd. in Mid-City. Tickets are $25 and available here.

-- Chau Tu

Click It. BEAT picks of the week.

2011-10-27T10:15:00.000-07:00

It's an exciting week in the food world (and for anyone with a sweet tooth!), Christina Tosi's Momofuku Milk Bar cookbook is now available. On Tuesday November 8th she'll be doing two Los Angeles signings--one at 2:00 p.m. at the Beverly Hills Williams-Sonoma, and another at 5:30 p.m. at Roy Choi's Chego.

Another sugary item--between now and November 20th, any large drink from participating Carl's Jr.s comes in one of four Immortals collector's cups. I sure wouldn't mind looking at Henry Cavill (or Mickey Rourke for that matter) while enjoying an ice cold fountain Coke.

I love these boots for fall.

A sweet and under-appreciated movie starring Owen Wilson, Jack Black, and Steve Martin.

It's officially cold season, double up on Emergen-C packets--Raspberry and Tangerine flavors combined in water for one powerful and refreshing dose of Vitamin C.

There's still time to buy Magic Pink Ice from Arcona during October for 25% of the sale to be donated to Cancer and Careers. You really can't go wrong with any Arcona product, and this hydrating gel is one of their best.

Happy Halloween (I'll be drinking pumpkin ale and watching scary movies)!

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Clarkson Potter Publishing

the BEAT of the week: Henry Rollins at Book Soup.

2011-10-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

Love him or hate him, Henry Rollins is a pretty enigmatic guy. From hosting a radio show on KCRW to doing his spoken word performances to music blogging for the LA Weekly, Rollins has become anything but predictable.

And so his next venture, turns out, is a book of photography. Occupants features photography from the man himself, taken all over the world, including far-off places like Bangladesh, Burma, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Northern Ireland, Saudi Arabia and South Africa. And as expected, the photos -- accompanied with writings by Rollins -- are stark and honest, providing a deeper commentary.

Hear Rollins tell the stories behind his photos when he appears for a signing at Book Soup this Thursday. Beyond being able to get a signed copy of the book, having the chance to listen to the man speak in person is definitely going to be entertaining and fascinating in and of itself.

Henry Rollins will be signing his new book, Occupants, on Thursday, Oct. 27, at 7pm at Book Soup, located at 8818 Sunset Blvd. in West Hollywood.

-- Chau Tu

Photo credit: Henry Rollins

Click It. BEAT picks of the week.

2011-10-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

My part of the new blog format is a weekly roundup of cool things, from L.A. and beyond, currently on my radar. Please click the links to explore, and I hope you enjoy ...

I've wanted an Ork city map poster for awhile now, and thought a Brooklyn one would make sense in my new Williamsburg apartment ... yet the Los Angeles version still feels more like home

On my nightstand: the Chateau Marmont Signature Candle (a great gift for someone special, or to treat yourself!)

Listen to (Los Feliz resident) Ryan Adams' Ashes & Fire (released last week, his best since 2001's Gold)

If you love Mario Batali's Mozza group of restaurants on Melrose and Highland, pre-order Molto Batali: Simple Family Meals From My Home to Yours

Sarah Silverman & Friends at Largo tonight

Also tonight: Thrillist's Bergamont Station Art Crawl (and open bar, and food trucks)

For the weekend: check out the new West Hollywood Library (and murals by artists including Shepard Fairey)

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: orkposters.com

the BEAT of the week: Dia De Los Muertos at Hollywood Forever.

2011-10-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

In my new weekly post, I'll be sharing what will be called 'the BEAT of the week' -- my pick for what's coming up soon here in L.A. (and maybe a bit beyond) that's surely worth a bit of your time.

We kick it off with what has surely become a regular yearly attraction for many: Hollywood Forever Cemetery's Dia De Los Muertos festival. Also known as The Day of the Dead, Dia De Los Muertos is the Mexican holiday celebrated after Halloween to remember and honor those who have passed on. The festivities generally include building altars and shrines complete with photos, candles, incense and more; and then there's also music, dancing, storytelling and feasting to celebrate 'with' the dead.

It's a tradition extra special here thanks to L.A.'s large Hispanic demographic, and the perfect venue is found in the Hollywood Forever Cemetery (and in fact, Hollywood Forever claims it is the only cemetery in the country that opens itself for such festivities). This year -- its 12th -- the event will include musical performances by Astrid Hadad and Ruben Albarran, as well as a grand procession for the holiday. Everyone's encouraged to dress up -- especially in the traditional painted skull face known as Calaca.

It's a great way to indulge and learn about an ancient ritual, while also getting in on the spooky festivities of Halloween early -- and really, there's no better place to do it in L.A.

Dia De Los Muertos takes place this Saturday from 12pm to 12am (there are three ticketing times, click here for more info) at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, located at 6000 Santa Monica Blvd. Tickets are $10.

-- Chau Tu

Photo credit: Ofrendas Inc.

**Check back on Thursday for Leslie's weekend list!

Etc. Changes.

2011-10-11T07:15:00.000-07:00

Hi, readers! We're working on some fresh new ideas - please check back next Tuesday morning, because we're excited to share with you. Thank you, as always, for reading.

-- the BEAT

Photo credit: Entertaining Six or Eight

Do It. L.A. Beer Float Showdown at LA Beer Week.

2011-10-10T10:28:00.001-07:00

Well as a great follow-up to Leslie's latest post -- it's LA Beer Week (but isn't it always?). Actually, that's a misnomer, considering the event is set to last two weeks, and takes place in Los Angeles and Orange County. But either way, it's set to be a celebration.

As expected, there'll be a slew of fun festivities revolving around drinking the brew, but one particular highlight will surely be the L.A. Beer Float Showdown. Is there anything more fun than a beer float? Then take into account that you'll be pairing up the best in brewmasters -- from the Tustin Brewery, Firestone Walker, Beechwood BBQ, Eagle Rock Brewery and more -- with some fun chefs, like Thi Tran and Nguyen Tran of Starry Kitchen, Top Chef alums Ilan Hall and CJ Jacobsen, and Laurent Quenioux, and you've definitely got a showdown. What kind of crazy concoctions will they come up with? Gotta show up to find out.

The L.A. Beer Float Showdown takes place this Saturday, Oct. 15 from 1pm-4pm at Eagle Rock Brewery, located at 3056 Roswell St. in Eagle Rock. Tickets at $35. And click here for more info on the rest of LA Beer Week.

-- Chau Tu

Drink It. Fall beers.

2011-10-07T14:45:00.000-07:00

Cheers to fall beers!

While Oktoberfest festivities are coming to an end, liquor stores and supermarkets are well-stocked with Oktoberfest and Pumpkin brews. Sam Adams, a master of seasonal varieties, makes a truly delicious Harvest Pumpkin Ale. Other BEAT favorites include Buffalo Bill's Pumpkin Ale, Blue Moon Harvest Moon Pumpkin Ale, and Shipyard Brewing Co.'s Pumpkinhead Ale.

More pumpkin.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Samuel Adams

Do It. Wernerfest!

2011-10-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

There's no denying that German filmmaker Werner Horzog is a strange, strange man. But his arresting personality has lent itself to intriguing filmmaking that's unlike anyone else's. From documentaries to dramas to action films, Herzog can do it all -- even 3D, as Leslie saw back in April.

Herzog's work is quite extensive, and surely even most fans haven't watched a great majority of his work. But novice or expert fan, Wernerfest is the best excuse to dive right on in. The 12-hour film marathon takes place this Saturday, Oct. 8, from noon to midnight and features 13 of Herzog's early and classic works. There's his 1978 Nosferatu, his debut short Herakles, and even yes, Werner Herzog Eats His Shoe. Stay the whole time or just watch a block -- it's only $10! And Herzog himself might be making an appearance too -- surely don't want to miss out on that.

Wernerfest! A Marathon of Werner Herzog Discoveries takes place this Saturday from noon to midnight at Goethe-Institut Los Angeles, 5750 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 100 in Miracle Mile.

-- Chau Tu

Photo credit: Courtesy of the Goethe-Institut Los Angeles

Check It. Drive.

2011-10-05T07:50:00.000-07:00

Drive is the best movie I've seen in a long long time. An unexpected end-of-summer treat, Ryan Gosling is at his absolute coolest as a stunt driver / getaway driver in Los Angeles. The film is beautifully shot, and I think Angelenos will especially appreciate the opening driving scene. Carey Mulligan is perfect as Irene, a subtle and sweet neighbor down the hall. There's so much to love about Drive. See it! Now playing at the ArcLight Hollywood (my favorite), and other theaters worldwide.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: via Collider

Eat Out. DineLA restaurant week.

2011-10-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

At long last, it is that time of year again. DineLA restaurant week is back in full force, and you better get your reservations in soon. Some of my picks for this year: Santa Monica's Josie Restaurant (as a fancy preview to the new and less expensive Josie Next Door), Lukshon (from the mind behind Father's Office), the buzzworthy Picca (don't miss the mindblowingly smooth Avocado Project).

Check out the whole list here, and happy eating!

dineLA restaurant week is Oct. 2-7 and Oct. 9-14.

-- Chau Tu

Check It. Striped tops.

2011-10-03T13:10:00.000-07:00

I have been stripes-obsessed for quite some time now. It's great to see that this trend is still in full swing for fall, judging by J. Crew's current collection. Stock up this week with a free shipping offer on their women's tees and knits - offer though Wednesday at 11:59 p.m. EST.

The Long-stripe boater tee pictured is $72. Their Vintage cotton stripe shoulder-zip tee ($42.50) in 'spicy cinnamon' would be perfect gear for casual fall cooking nights with friends and good red wine.

Gap's Supersoft striped crewneck T is also a great basic striped top. Petit Bateau's Women's marinière too.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: J. Crew

the monthly BEAT: Miracle Mile/Mid-City/Fairfax. Oktoberfest at Wirsthaus.

2011-09-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

Fall is, in fact, here now, and October is just around the corner. So time to celebrate!

One of L.A.'s newest German restaurants (among a slew of others), Wirsthaus, just kicked off its Oktoberfest festivities. Expect live music, fun costumes (lederhosen!) and, of course, great food and drink specials. The fun ends on Oct. 8th, so take advantage while you can.

Wirsthaus is located at 345 N La Brea Ave. in Mid-City. Check their Facebook for more Oktoberfest info.

-- Chau Tu

Photo credit: Wirsthaus

Eat In. The Mozza Cookbook.

2011-09-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

Mozza is easily one of L.A.'s most quintessential restaurants: you can't sit a table without being able to reach out and touch any one of Hollywood's major leaguers (but please don't, because that would be weird), and the delicious cuisine there is the work of superstar restauranteurs Nancy Silverton, Mario Batali and Joseph Bastianich.

As such, it's not always easy to book a table at the establishment, and it probably isn't always easy on your wallet. But now you can bring Mozza right into your home. Silverton's own The Mozza Cookbook: Recipes from Los Angeles's Favorite Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria was just released yesterday, and features many of Mozza's most beloved dishes, from the fried squash blossoms with ricotta to fresh ricotta and egg ravioli with brown butter to fennel sausage, panna, and scallion pizza.

I'm salivating just thinking about it! So if you happen to master some of these amazing dishes, you know who to invite over (hint: me!). Happy cooking!

-- Chau Tu

Advance Notice. Ellen DeGeneres at Barnes & Noble.

2011-09-27T13:35:00.000-07:00

Ellen DeGeneres is one of my favorite comedians, and I'd love to meet her. I saw her once on La Cienega in a silver Porsche and that was exciting, but going to a book signing would be so much fun!

Luckily for Los Angeles, Ellen will be at the Grove's Barnes & Noble next Tuesday night celebrating the release of her new book, Seriously ... I'm Kidding.

If you haven't seen Ellen DeGeneres - Here and Now, rent or buy it ($6.99 on amazon) immediately.

Tuesday October 4 at 7:00 p.m. Wristband distribution with book purchase begins at 9:00 a.m. day of event. Info: barnesandnoble.com, (323) 525-0270

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Grand Central Publishing

Do It. Eagle Rock Music Festival.

2011-09-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

Another weekend, another great chance at seeing live entertainment for cheap in L.A.!

This time around, it's the Eagle Rock Music Festival, featuring performances from especially good local acts like Flying Lotus, HEALTH, Mia Doi Todd, Nosaj Thing (the entire Low End Theory stage is fantastic), Shadow Shadow Shade, Rooney and more for just a $5 suggested donation. It's all going down this Saturday, Oct. 1 from 4pm-10pm, right on Colorado Blvd. L.A. couldn't be more good to us music fans.

The Eagle Rock Music Festival takes place this Saturday on Colorado Blvd. between Argus & Eagle Rock Blvd. in Eagle Rock.

-- Chau Tu

the monthly BEAT: Miracle Mile/Mid-City/Fairfax. Films at LACMA.

2011-09-25T13:20:00.000-07:00

We tell you about film screening at LACMA here and there, but even I often forget to check out what's upcoming at the Miracle Mile museum. There are currently several must-see films in the near future on their calendar ...

Gilda (1946)

Tuesday September 27 at 1:00 p.m. $2 general admission

The Swimmer (1968)

Tuesday Oct 1 at 1:00 p.m. $2 general admission

The Rum Diary (2011)

Tuesday Oct 13 at 7:30 p.m. sold out, but check craigslist. Special guests Bruce Robinson, Johnny Depp, Aaron Eckhart, and Amber Heard

Martha Marcy May Marlene (2011)

Sunday Oct 16 at 8:30 p.m. Free tickets; only available to Film Independent, LACMA Film Club, and New York Times Film Club members. Special guests Elizabeth Olsen and Sean Durkin

Info: lacma.org, (323) 857-6010

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Columbia Pictures

Eat Out. Wurstküche Venice.

2011-09-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

The westside outpost of favorite Los Angeles sausage restaurant Wurstküche is now open! Green chilies and cilantro (chicken & turkey), and mango jalapeño (chicken & turkey) are my favorites, and there are some great vegetarian sausages too, including smoked apple sage. The exotic options include duck, rabbit, rattlesnake, and alligator!

Don't miss the fries--with the white truffle oil glaze! And a Chimay White on tap.

625 Lincoln Boulevard in Venice, Calif. Kitchen open 11:00 a.m. till midnight, bar open till 1:30 a.m. (213) 687-4444

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: la.eater.com

Advance Notice. Jane Birkin at the Luckman Fine Arts Complex.

2011-09-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

Serge Gainsbourg been in the L.A. mindset a lot lately, with the recent star-studded musical tribute at the Hollywood Bowl late last month and the release of the biopic Gainsbourg: A Heroic Life. Come December, though, it's time to take the focus off the man.

Because now it's Jane Birkin's turn. The original muse, as far as I'm concerned, Birkin became well-known in the late '60s after duetting with Gainsbourg on the unforgettably sexy "Je t'aime... moi non plus," and also starring in the film of the same name. They collaborated again on Histoire de Melody Nelson and had a daughter together (the now actress/singer Charlotte Gainsbourg). Birkin became a cultural icon, and the Birkin bag by Hermes that was designed especially for her is now beyond classic.

And Birkin continues to perform. On Dec. 3rd, Birkin will be making her first appearance in L.A. in seven years at the Luckman Fine Arts Complex. It'll surely be a pleasant, sexy stroll down memory lane as you witness the beauty and talent of a true icon.

Jane Birkin will be performing on Sat., Dec. 3 at the Luckman Fine Arts Complex, located at 5151 State University Dr. at Cal State L.A. Tickets are $35-$45.

-- Chau Tu

Photo credit: Courtesy of the Luckman

Eat Out. Chick-fil-A Hollywood.

2011-09-20T22:45:00.000-07:00

It was exciting enough when the USC Chick-fil-A opened in L.A. Now there is going to be another one right in the heart of Hollywood!

Opening Thursday September 22 at 6:00 a.m., Sunset and Highland - 6750 Sunset Boulevard

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Chick-fil-A

Do It. Abbot Kinney Festival.

2011-09-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

For those of you still mourning the end of summer -- I include myself in the bunch -- here's another last gasp. The Abbot Kinney Festival, always set on the last Sunday of September, is the best last chance to hit the seaside and not feel so chilly about it.

Although you should probably bring a sweater, because you're bound to out and about for a while. This year's festivities boast a great musical lineup, including the currently buzzy Thundercat; locals Kisses and Mia Doi Todd; as well as Hanni El Khatib and Tom Brousseau. The stages are set to go all day, from 10am-6pm. In between sets, be sure to check out the plethora of food trucks, the beer gardens, and the tons of booths offering sustainable and green goods (it is Venice, after all).

Enjoy the last hurrah!

The Abbot Kinney Festival takes place on Sunday, Sept. 25 along Abbot Kinney Blvd. in Venice. The entire event is free!

-- Chau Tu

the monthly BEAT: Miracle Mile/Mid-City/Fairfax. Ooh LA L.A. Festival.

2011-09-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Time to practice your French, fellow Angelenos -- the Ooh LA L.A. Festival is coming to town. The third annual French music event is the only one of its kind and caliber in Los Angeles, and it takes over the El Rey for three days at the end of this month.

The big highlight is Nouvelle Vague's performance on Sept. 29, when the French band known for taking on rock's classics and giving them a sultry twist tackles a new challenge: a musical directed by Jean-Charles de Castelbajac. It's called "Dawn of Innocence," and although I'm not too familiar with his work, here's a video preview of a past collaboration between the two.

Sept. 30 will feature a performance by the collective Tinariwen, and on Oct. 1, Birdy Nam Nam will be joined by DJ Cam and Feadz. Check out more info here.

The Ooh LA L.A. Festival takes place from Sept. 29-Oct. 1 at the El Rey, located at 5515 Wilshire Blvd. in Mid-City.

-- Chau Tu

Do It. TOMS party at the Viceroy.

2011-09-15T09:45:00.000-07:00

We're big fans of TOMS, and of fun parties, here at the BEAT.

Tonight, there's a TOMS party at Santa Monica's very cool Viceroy hotel. Check it out!

Buy a pair of the super comfortable slip-ons and have them decorated by one of the talented Los Angeles artists in attendance.

1819 Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica. Tonight - September 15, 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: TOMS

Do It. The Whistleblower book signing at Barnes & Noble.

2011-09-14T11:40:00.000-07:00

Rachel Weisz gives a remarkable performance in one of her many recent films, The Whistleblower. It's truly disturbing and scary, not in the Dream House sense, but because the horrors you see on screen really happen, every day.

The film is inspired by true events--the life of Kathryn Bolovac, an American police officer who went to post-war Bosnia as part of the U.N. International Police Task Force and discovered a mess of human trafficking, sex scandal, and government corruption.

Bolovac co-authored a book with Cari Lynn, The Whistleblower: Sex Trafficking, Military Contractors, and One Woman's Fight for Justice. Tomorrow night, Lynn will be at the Grove's Barnes & Noble for a signing.

You can check out more on the film here. Read more on human trafficking / modern day slavery (27 million worldwide) here and here.

Thursday September 15 at 7:30 p.m. 189 The Grove Drive, Suite K 30. Info: barnesandnoble.com, (323) 525-0270

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Samuel Goldwyn Films

Do It. St. Vincent at Space 15 Twenty.

2011-09-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

All right, start planning now. You officially have an hour and a half -- or less -- until 10:30am, when you can officially buy St. Vincent's new album, Strange Mercy, at Amoeba in Hollywood, and in turn, receive a free ticket to see her perform live tonight at Space 15 Twenty.

Whew. Kind of a handful, but totally worth it. The woman is something to be seen live -- with her doe-like but always-in-a-daze eyes combined with her mad guitar skills. And Strange Mercy is already probably my favorite album of hers yet, getting more intellectually complex in her tunes and lyrics than ever before. Plus, who can beat a (sort of, considering you do have to buy the album) free concert?

St. Vincent's Strange Mercy will be available for purchase at 10:30am at Amoeba Music, located at 6400 Sunset Blvd. in Hollywood. It's one ticket per album, limit 2 to a person. The free concert will take place at 6pm tonight at Space 15 Twenty, located at 1520 Cahuenga Blvd. in Hollywood (basically across the street from Amoeba).

-- Chau Tu

Check It. Restless.

2011-09-12T09:00:00.000-07:00

There's just something about the way Gus Van Sant sees and portrays love. The filmmaker's line of work over the past few decades has been varied, from Mala Noche to Good Will Hunting, My Own Private Idaho to Milk, but there are always those moments, those glimpses of love that make it a unique Van Sant work, through and through. He's able capture love in ways that are vivid, raw, sometimes even surprising. Without you even expecting it, those moments stick with you long after the credits have rolled.

Van Sant unabashedly tackles the subject of love head-on in his latest film, Restless. The story, written by first-time screenwriter Jason Lew, follows the teenage romance of Enoch Brae (played by first-time actor and son of the late Dennis, Henry Hopper) and Annabel Cotton (Mia Wasikowska), a relationship bookended by death. It's first love, always doomed, but beautiful nonetheless.

It's not surprising that the film has caught some of Van Sant's devotees off-guard since premiering at Cannes earlier this year -- it's probably his most blatant movie yet, this simple coming of age tale marked by first love. And teenage first love is difficult to portray without seeming contrived or overdone. The script does have its rookie moments, but Van Sant ultimately saves it, quite simply because there's really no one better at getting to the heart of youth in turmoil.

For one, Van Sant captures innocence beautifully in the film, helped further by a whimsicalness in the twosome's affinity for vintage fashion. The contradiction of old styles and the actors' fresh faces parallel the struggles of the characters, as they attempt to take hold of adult realities while also discovering the beauties in growing up. Hopper, especially for his first feature, was pretty fantastic in his control -- it's an understated role, of one always quietly in mourning, and he held it well. Wasikowska was beyond a perfect fit, exuding confidence and strength within a frail exterior. She really takes control of the film, and you really can't take your eyes off of her.

Restless may not be a daring film, per se, but as may often happen with Van Sant, you may be surprised with what sticks with you.

Restless opens in selected theaters this Friday.

-- Chau Tu

Photo credit: Sony Pictures Classics

the monthly BEAT: Miracle Mile/Mid-City/Fairfax. Eat Out.

2011-09-09T20:45:00.000-07:00

Chau and I both used to work in the Miracle Mile section of Los Angeles, and you better believe we found our fair share of great eateries. Any time of day, this relatively unassuming stretch between Beverly Hills and downtown Los Angeles has some delicious options.

Between around 11:30 a.m. and 2:00 or 3:00 p.m. a ton of famous L.A. food trucks are parked out front of the Variety Building (5900 Wilshire), and the 5750 Wilshire offices (which includes E!).

The Counter (for a custom burger and a quality milkshake)

Mixt Greens (healthy made-to-order salads and sandwiches)

Umami Burger La Brea (a BEAT favorite)

Caffe Latte (well-made espresso drinks, breakfast, muffins, soup, hearty salads, etc.)

Tawanni Thai (very decent strip mall Thai food, their tofu yellow curry was my go-to favorite)

Luna Park (good happy hour specials, pleasant little outdoor sidewalk area)

Stark Bar at LACMA (for creative cocktails and small plates)

Enjoy!

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: the BEAT

Do It. San Diego Music Thing.

2011-09-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

Summer may soon be over, but you've still got an excuse for a road trip this weekend. The San Diego Music Thing -- great name, right? -- looks like pretty much the closest thing Southern California may get to its own SXSW, and while it isn't exactly boasting something along the lines of a Death From Above 1979 reunion, it's still got some cred. A few L.A. highlights include Abe Vigoda, Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. and Exene Cervenka (from X), and that's alongside some 150 other bands over the two-day event. Plus there'll be speakers straight from the heart of the music industry, offering their insights and probably some fun stories to boot.

Best of all, an all-access pass -- meaning every concert and speaker panel -- is only $45 right now (or $50 the days of). For both days! It's a pretty sweet deal. And if you just want to check out the bands alone, it's only $20 a day.

Musical road trip sounds pretty good now, huh?

The San Diego Music Thing takes places this Friday and Saturday at The Lafayette Hotel, located at 2223 El Cajon Blvd. in San Diego.

-- Chau Tu

Advance Notice. Moby at Book Soup.

2011-09-07T08:25:00.000-07:00

Moby (an Angeleno who lives in this awesome Hollywood Hills castle) has a new album and book out, and on Monday he'll be at Book Soup for a signing. There are a few fantastic reviews on Amazon, so if you're already a Moby fan, or just curious about what he's been up to recently (other than eating/hanging out at Oaks Gourmet), check out Destroyed.

Monday September 12 at 7:00 p.m. 8818 Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood. Info: booksoup.com, (310) 659-3110

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images North America via zimbio.com

Do It. The GOOD 30-Day Challenge.

2011-09-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

Now that you've taken off that wonderful holiday celebrating your labor, it's time to get down to some real work. The ever-positively-refreshing GOOD magazine is urging everyone take part in its GOOD 30-Day Challenge over the course of September. The big theme? Connecting with people. Here's what the mag has to say about it:

With the internet age not only upon us, but so intertwined into our lives that living without the web seems impossible, sometimes we forget to talk to each other. Sure, we tweet, text, Facebook, Google+, Gchat, and AIM constantly—it's not that we don't communicate. But how often do we actually talk?

So it's time to connect -- IRL, so the kids say (that's "in real life," in case you needed that defined). Already, day one has challenged people to send someone a postcard. A real, snail mail postcard. Ain't that cute? A great way to reconnect with an old friend, and share some news in a quick and easy way. Day two? Have a conversation with a service employee.

It's a wonder how much a little consideration can bring so much good. Do your part, and check out good.is each day at 5:30PST every September day for your next challenge, and follow-up with #30DaysofGOOD.

-- Chau Tu

Happy Labor Day 2011!

2011-09-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day! Enjoy the long weekend.

Grab a book (or September Vogue), and a cold drink, and relax.

Thank you, as always, for reading our blog!

-- the BEAT

the monthly BEAT: Miracle Mile/Mid-City/Fairfax. Tarfest 2011.

2011-09-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

The Miracle Mile/Mid-City district is a peculiar one: packed with shops from Melrose to the Grove, eateries along Beverly and Fairfax, and cultural centers like LACMA, the El Rey or the New Beverly, there's a lot going on. But there's also no freeway in sight, making the area a certain kind of trek on weekends and during weeknight rush hours -- and yet one that's totally worth it.

Tarfest 2011 is sure to add to a bit of the madness, but in a good way. Presented by Launch LA, the arts and culture event is taking over Miracle Mile for much of September. First there's the art, from Sept. 16 to 29, at the Korean Cultural Center, featuring a variety of artists and genres. Then on Sept. 25, there's the free concert: taking place at the La Brea Tar Pits (Tarfest? Get it?) and featuring performances by local bands like Saint Motel and Everest. Look for more art on that day, with installations and environmental sculptures, as well as the usual array of food trucks and festival-ness. It'll be a good excuse to start checking out the area, even if it takes you a while to get there.

For more information on Tarfest 2011, click here.

-- Chau Tu

Check It. Les Jeans de Chanel.

2011-09-01T10:35:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been excited over Chanel's Fall 2011 metallic nail polish line, and now this!

On September 8, Fashion's Night Out in NYC this year, denim-inspired Les Jeans de Chanel will debut.

I love the flat muted tone of Blue Boy, it reminds me of soft cotton, á la James Perse T's.

Join the waitlist today, and while you're at it, blue jean baby, download Elton John's "Tiny Dancer".

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Chanel

Do It. AFI's Great American Movie Quiz with Alex Trebek.

2011-08-31T09:00:00.000-07:00

If you're ticking off those last things to do before this summer ends and you don't have a barbecue to hit on Sunday, it might be the perfect excuse to head to the Hollywood Bowl. It's not your regular classical concert or even one of those contemporary concerts they've been having -- nope, Sunday night is The Big Picture: AFI’s Great American Movie Quiz Hosted by Alex Trebek.

How does that not sound amazing? Participate in the ultimate sort of movie trivia put on by the foremost film expert (AFI), hosted by the foremost kind of host. And the questions will be answered/performed live by the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, as film clips are shown on screen. Perfect for the movie buff, or the non-movie buff (because hey, you'll learn something!), or just everyone in between looking for an inventive night out.

The Big Picture: AFI’s Great American Movie Quiz Hosted by Alex Trebek takes place this Sun., Sept. 4 at the Hollywood Bowl, located at 2301 N. Highland Ave. in Hollywood. Tickets are still available (ranging from $16-$168) and can be bought here.

-- Chau Tu

Do It. Gainsbourg And His Girls at the Silent Movie Theatre.

2011-08-30T09:55:00.000-07:00

A couple years ago, I read what a fan Beck is of Serge Gainsbourg's Historie de Melody Nelson, and high-tailed it to Amoeba to get a copy.

This past weekend, there was a Serge Gainsbourg Tribute concert at the Hollywood Bowl. Performers included Beck, Zola Jesus, Victoria Legrand of Beach House, Sean Lennon, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt, among others.

These days, it seems more Americans may know who Charlotte Gainsbourg (21 Grams, I'm Not There., Antichrist) is than her late famous French father, but a new documentary is in town to change that. Many of his numerous muses are featured in the film--Jane Birkin, Brigitte Bardot, Catherine Deneuve, Françoise Hardy, and Vanessa Paradis.

The Cinefamily at the Silent Movie Theatre is screening Gainsbourg And His Girls tonight through Friday.

611 North Fairfax Avenue in Los Angeles. Tickets $10. Info: cinefamily.org, (323) 655-2510

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: France 3 + Morgane Productions

Do It. Barnsdall Park Friday night wine tasting.

2011-08-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

It's pretty depressing: the end of summer is nearing. The sun is setting earlier, the Cinespia screenings are ending, and so too are the Barnsdall Park Friday night wine tastings.

That last event is a new discovery of mine, and I'm pretty bummed about its pending end, but you all still have one more week to enjoy it. For $25, you can support the nonprofit Barnsdall Foundation, which oversees community projects, and then enjoy a fun night of wines from the nearby Silverlake Wines. You'll get a cute souvenir glass and a total of four pours under that price as well, and you happen to get to enjoy it with one of the best views of the city. Seriously, the sunset scene there is amazing. Chill to the DJ music and grab food from the participating food trucks. And for just $15 more, you can take a guided tour of the famous Frank Lloyd Wright Hollyhock House. A great sendoff for summer.

The last Barnsdall Park Friday night wine tasting this season takes place this Friday at Barnsdall Park, located at 4800 Hollywood Blvd. in Los Feliz. Get your tickets here.

-- Chau Tu

the monthly BEAT: Silver Lake. Sunset Junction Street Fair cancelled.

2011-08-26T12:10:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month, we told you about the annual Sunset Junction Street Fair that should have been this weekend in Silver Lake, but has now been cancelled.

Apparently the festival organizers owed the city a bunch of money from last year and had not come up with enough for this year.

It's a shame to see a tradition (since 1980) die. Check out Randy Lewis and Margaret Wappler's Los Angeles Times article about the community's mixed emotions about the news.

Have a look at past lineups here.

Alternate suggestions for weekend fun: see Our Idiot Brother at the ArcLight (who doesn't love Paul Rudd?), check out Seventy 7 Lounge (check Twitter for entry password), read a good book, if you still haven't seen Midnight in Paris, see that instead of Our Idiot Brother.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Jonathan Leibson/FilmMagic via rollingstone.com

Check It. Seventy 7 Lounge.

2011-08-25T15:10:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Thrillist, I know about this awesome-sounding bar that opens tonight.

Seventy 7 Lounge is the latest "secret" watering hole in town, in the same vein as the very cool La Descarga rum bar on Western. Look out for the neon "cocktails" sign, and check their Twitter page day-of for the password needed for entry.

Once in, enjoy vintage-style decor and creative cocktails like the Moulin Rouge and Velvet Underground, and/or Hoegaarden on tap.

The password for tonight is "prohibition".

3843 Main Street in Culver City. Info: (310) 559-7077, twitter.com/seventy7la

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Thrillist

Check It. Andy Warhol x incase.

2011-08-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

These days, it can be really difficult to stride the fine line of honoring art by commercializing it, or doing it a disservice. The Andy Warhol Foundation, thankfully, is doing it all right. It hasn't been scared to put Warhol's enigmatic art out in this world, but it also hasn't done it too much. And that's mostly because it's chosen the right sort of classy projects.

Like this one. This collection could be the sole reason for wanting an iPhone 4, or for returning my beloved DODOcase. Available as cases for your laptop, iPad, and iPhone, the Andy Warhol x incase collection is the perfect way to bring some Pop Art into your life. The designs include Elvis (one of my most favorite Warhol pieces), Camouflage, Flowers and Cow Wallpaper. And the best news: they're all pretty affordable and in the normal price range for designed cases, with the iPhone cases starting at $40 and iPad cases at $80. Some pieces are only available for preorder right now, so get on it now in case you miss out on this great collaboration.

I wonder what Andy would think of an iPad?

-- Chau Tu

Check It. Lulu Frost for J. Crew.

2011-08-23T07:10:00.000-07:00

As a big fan of art deco design, of J. Crew, and of classic yet fun jewelry, I am loving the new Lulu Frost for J. Crew line.

My favorite is the thin deco bangle in navy, but everything is really great and wearable, from the crystal and resin earrings to the pendant necklaces.

Princes range from $45 to $135.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: J. Crew

Advance Notice. Batman/Batman Returns at the Aero.

2011-08-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

With all the recent hype surrounding the filming of the latest Dark Knight movie, it may be the perfect time to take a step back and remember the classics.

Besides these newest movies, my favorite Batman film would have to be Batman Returns. Tim Burton as superhero film director does still, even now, seem strange, but it all works out perfectly. Danny DeVito as Penguin quite possibly could be the best casting move ever -- those claws and that devilish snarl still give me nightmares today. And of course, there's Michelle Pfeiffer's Catwoman -- Anne could only wish.

In case you need a refresher, Batman Returns will be screening alongside its predecessor, Batman, on Sept. 23 at the Aero in Santa Monica. The event is intended to honor the release of the memoir by Michael E. Uslan, a man who's been credited as producer on every Batman film since Batman. The Los Angeles Times' Geoff Boucher will be holding a Q&A with Uslan before the films.

Batman/Batman Returns will be screening on Sept. 23 at 7:30pm at the Aero Theatre, located at 1328 Montana Ave. in Santa Monica. Buy tickets here.

-- Chau Tu

the monthly BEAT: Silver Lake. Berlin Currywurst.

2011-08-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

It's official: L.A.'s got a sausage obsession. (Keep your mind clean.) With the recent openings of restaurants like Wirtshaus on Fairfax and Papaya Dog a la New York alongside our established institutions like Wurstkuche and those bacon-wrapped dirty dogs found so conveniently on sidewalk corners late at night, there hasn't been this much excitement about sausages since Dodger Dogs.

But let's escape the L.A. hype for a bit and take a detour to Berlin -- via Silver Lake, of course. Nestled right on the Sunset Junction, Berlin Currywurst opened up earlier this year with an emphasis on simplicity: owned by an extremely nice husband-wife team; just a few benches, tables and chairs; and an easy menu of the German street food fave.

Currywurst isn't a usual dog-and-bun deal. Here you'll choose your sausage -- wursts of chicken, pork, beef, tofu -- then choose your heat level. The sausage comes cut up in pieces doused in homemade organic sauce based in ketchup and curry and your level of heat. There's bread on the side for you to dip in, and the option of delicious fries with jambalaya seasoning and onions.

Simple, cheap ($6 for just the currywurst, add $3.50 for the fries) and absolutely delicious. A ton of flavor and heat that smolders softly at first, but effectively by the end. And the perfect primer for Pazzo Gelato next door, setting the pace for making Berlin Currywurst a Silver lake must.

Berlin Currywurst is located at 3827 Sunset Blvd. in Silver Lake.

-- Chau Tu

Photo credit: the BEAT

Check It. White Vinegar fix.

2011-08-18T09:10:00.000-07:00

Back in the early days of the BEAT, Lauren wrote about the wonders of white vinegar as a household cleaning agent. Last night I tried vinegar in laundry for the first time, and it worked!

We had a couple plush Ralph Lauren Home towels that just wouldn't shake a musty odor, even after plenty of washing and thorough drying. I did a little research online and a common fix seemed to be washing towels in hot water with a cup or so of white vinegar (inexpensive and widely available in supermarkets), then re-washing with detergent right after.

My towels came out like new! Soft and fresh. I was thrilled with the results. If you have any towels or clothes that maybe sat in a damp pile for too long and picked up a stink, try vinegar to get rid of it.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: the BEAT

Do It. LA Weekly Pancake Breakfast with Jonathan Gold.

2011-08-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

LA Weekly's food critic Jonathan Gold puts on his annual Gold Standard event every spring, featuring his picks for the best of L.A., and it's always a huge success. Now he's narrowing it down and focusing on just one basic food groups: Pancakes.

Alas, you're surely not to get just simple flapjacks at the LA Weekly Pancake Breakfast happening later this month. With participating restaurants like Warszawa, Salt's Cure, LAMill and Playa, the menu promises to be fun, inventive and still completely delicious.

Having brunch with J. Gold! We're a lucky city.

The LA Weekly Pancake Breakfast takes place 11am-2pm on Sat., Aug, 28 at Vibiana, located at 214 S. Main St. in downtown. Tickets are $25 each and are available here.

-- Chau Tu

Eat Out. Bouchon Bakery Beverly Hills.

2011-08-16T16:55:00.000-07:00

I've never had better brioche than from Bouchon Bakery (these rolls from Bon Appétit are a close second).

Beverly Hills is lucky to be the newest location (joining Yountville, Calif., Las Vegas, and New York City) of Thomas Keller's flawless bakery chain.

Bouchon Bakery also makes a great latte to go with your baked goods. If you don't have much of a sweet tooth, I highly recommend going for the tuna Niçoise sandwich, on ciabatta, with Bibb lettuce.

Opens tomorrow. 235 North Canon Drive in Beverly Hills. Info: bouchonbakery.com, (310) 271-9910

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Stefanie Keenan / Los Angeles Times

Check It. Attack the Block.

2011-08-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

It's a peculiar thing watching Attack the Block while being aware of all the riots and madness going on in London and surrounding whereabouts right now. There's a youthful grittiness that's almost all too real in this film, and can hit particularly hard if you think about it too much.

Thankfully, there's enough fast-moving action, witty remarks and just plain heart to distract you and have you enjoy this fun-filled adventure of a film. Attack the Block was directed by first-time director Joe Cornish, a friend of Edgar Wright (who also produced the film), and it's obvious that Cornish looks up to Wright's fast-cut storytelling pace. It's refreshing, keeps the movie young and holds well with the script's banter.

I went into the theater not knowing much anything about the plotline, and I think other moviegoers should do the same. But if you're curious, the basic story follows a group of British teenagers as they encounter a pretty crazy, out-of-this-world (wink wink) night. I was extremely impressed by the cast of actors -- many of them young and new and right of the gate (similar to Super 8 earlier this year; the kids are killing it!). They really help to bring you into this South London world, and you strangely might not ever want to leave.

Attack the Block is playing at the Arclight theaters, L.A. Live and other theaters.

-- Chau Tu

the monthly BEAT: Silver Lake. Broome Street General Store.

2011-08-14T15:10:00.000-07:00

A fantastic new addition came to Silver Lake this summer--the Broome Street General Store. They serve New York's Gimme! Coffee, and make a mean scone too.

From Rifle Paper Co. cards to Morris Kitchen ginger syrup, this is the best west coast place for great east coast goods!

2912 Rowena Avenue in Silver Lake, (323) 570-0405, facebook.com/broomestgeneral

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Broome Street General Store via facebook

Check It. Umami Burger's upcoming expansion.

2011-08-11T17:20:00.000-07:00

We love Umami Burger here at the BEAT, so we're thrilled to hear the news that there's major expansion planned, in partnership with SBE Group. First, a flagship location at the Grove will open this fall, and then 35 more locations will open nationwide within the next three years.

My favorite is the truffle burger, cooked medium (vs. the standard medium-rare) and I hear the truffle fries (how decadent!) are pretty fantastic, too.

We told you about the Los Feliz location's great happy hour last year, and it's still a solid bet, especially on a warm summer evening.

Congratulations, Umami! My hometown burger hero.

The five current locations are listed here.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Ringo H.W. Chiu / for the Los Angeles Times

Eat Out. Paradis.

2011-08-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

I think I've found my new favorite ice cream spot. And considering the vast variety of ice cream and frozen yogurt and gelato places that L.A. has to offer, I know it's pretty bold just to pick on favorite. But Paradis has completely won me over.

Paradis is a popular chain of shops in Denmark, offering homemade and freshly made ice cream. It only opened its first store in the United States (in Montrose) about two years ago, and earlier this year, it opened its second location, in Los Feliz Village (replacing a former Pinkberry). And it's prime to keep on expanding (in case you too get addicted).

The shop offers about 20 flavors at a time, with the usual chocolate and strawberry as well as coffee chocolate chip and Ferrero Rocher (which just happens to be my combination pictured above). And if you're in the mood to go all the way, opt in for chocolate marshmallow to put on top -- it looks devilishly delectable. Either way, though, the ice cream you'll enjoy will be incredibly smooth and creamy, and the flavors amazingly on point without being too sweet. It'll be difficult to go back to any other ice cream after Paradis, trust me.

Paradis is located at 1726 N. Vermont Ave. in Los Feliz.

-- Chau Tu

Photo credit: the BEAT

Do It. Celebrate Kate Spade and Current/Elliott in Century City.

2011-08-09T05:05:00.000-07:00

This event at the Century City Kate Spade shop on Thursday night sounds like a lot of fun! Creative director Deborah Lloyd is hosting, celebrating the 'Westward' collection, which is a collaboration with Current/Elliott designers Emily Current and Meritt Elliott.

I first heard of Current/Elliot a couple years ago when a lot of fashionable celebrities (Reese Witherspoon, Katie Holmes) were wearing their "Boyfriend" jeans. They're bringing their laid-back west coast style to the typically preppy NY-based line, and it's working--for me anyway, but that could just be the Malibu in me. There are six styles, ranging in price from $245 (wallet) - $1,295 (duffle).

Meet the designers and shop the collection Thursday night!

Thursday August 11, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Kate Spade Century City, 10250 Santa Monica Boulevard (in the mall).

RSVP - rsvp@starworksla.com

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Kate Spade

Do It. Amoeba's Monday Movies at Space15Twenty.

2011-08-08T09:00:00.001-07:00

Free movies every Monday at 8pm, all month at Space15Twenty. Grab a burger at Umami and sit back and enjoy the show, or stop by early and check out the racks at Urban Outfitters, What Comes Around Goes Around or Hennessey + Ingalls. Since Amoeba is sponsoring the screenings, be prepared for music-themed movies: this week it's an advance screening of Magic Trip : Ken Kesey's Search For A Kool Place, featuring never-before-seen-footage; next week it's a fun mix of Beastie Boys films and music videos.

Check out the rest of the lineup here.

Amoeba's Mondays Movies are screening at Space15Twenty, located at 1520 N. Cahuenga Blvd. in Hollywood.

-- Chau Tu

the monthly BEAT: Silver Lake. Sunset Junction 2011.

2011-08-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

For August's edition of the monthly BEAT, we're focusing on Silver Lake, which actually just so happens to be my own new neighborhood. It's a land oft-known/ridiculed for its hipsterism, but that mainly just means there are a lot of newer, younger places popping up around town that, while carry a hype machine, could be worth your visit.

But there are also some institutions already in place, a la Malo, Intelligentsia, and of course, the Sunset Junction Music Festival and Street Fair. Taking place at the end of the month at -- where else? -- the Sunset Junction, the musical lineup includes bands and artists both local and not, both big and small. Think Bobby Womack, the Melvins, Hanson (yep), Art Brut, the Butthole Surfers, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, Dum Dum Girls, alongside the Soft Pack, Lesands, Hands, Oh Darling and more. And then there's the market and food and fair stuff and general fun galore.

Tickets are only $20 per day, get them here.

The Sunset Junction Music Festival and Street Fair takes place Aug. 27-28 at Sunset Junction, located at 3700 to 4300 Sunset Blvd. (between Edgecliffe Dr. and Fountain Ave.) and 4000 to 4200 Santa Monica Blvd. (between Sanborn Ave. and Hoover St.).

-- Chau Tu

Do It. Breakfast at Tiffany's cemetery screening.

2011-08-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

There's a Cinespia cemetery screening this Saturday night that you won't want to miss: Breakfast at Tiffany's. Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly is beyond charming in this iconic role.

Arrive early, and bring plenty of food and drink--melba toast and cottage cheese (Holly's go-to), martinis, or croissants and good coffee.

I also highly suggest the book.

Saturday August 6 - gates open 7:00 p.m., film at 8:30 p.m. $10 cash at entry gate.

6000 Santa Monica Boulevard in Hollywood. Info: cinespia.org

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Paramount, via filmreference.com

Do It. See Andy Warhol's 'Soup Cans' at MOCA.

2011-08-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

There's nothing quite like seeing a Warhol in person. And though you've surely seen his iconic Soup Cans printed in books and magazines or on the Internet, seeing the intricate detailing of all the names and labels on the cans in person makes the art piece really something else. It brings a deeper appreciation to the little things, the simpler things. Beauty in what is, even if it's just your dinner for the night.

Andy Warhol's Soup Cans is being shown until Sept. 19 at MOCA, located at 250 S. Grand Ave. in downtown. This is the first time the entire collection has been shown in L.A. since its original showing (at the Ferus Gallery, 49 years ago).

-- Chau Tu

Photo credit: Andy Warhol Foundation/MOMA

Check It. National Ice Cream Sandwich Day.

2011-08-02T08:25:00.000-07:00

National Ice Cream month may be over, but today you can celebrate an entirely (ok, maybe not entirely) different holiday, National Ice Cream Sandwich Day.

Tofutti Cuties chocolate ice cream sandwiches are a really satisfying and guilt-free treat. They are great for vegans, or people with allergies, as they are dairy-free. Even as a non-vegan myself, I really enjoy the flavor, just like I enjoy some soy chocolate milk once in awhile. Each sandwich has 6 grams of fat - a far cry from some ice cream bars out there.

If you'd rather go the more traditional route, there's always Klondike. Or Diddy Riese if you're at all near Westwood Village.

Enjoy!

Tofutti Cuties are available at supermarkets, such as Gelson's, HOWS, select Ralphs, and at natural foods stores.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: Tofutti