Do It. Spike Jonze and Dave Eggers at Family.

Now that Lauren's told you about the awesome Family bookstore on Fairfax, it's time to check out the cool events they put on--like this Saturday's double book launch, featuring a Q&A and signing with filmmaker Spike Jonze and author Dave Eggers.

The two made a collaborative splash together last year when they released the film version of Where the Wild Things Are, but now they're promoting their separate projects (albeit together, which is cute). Jonze is representing a behind-the-scenes book about a short he released earlier this year named I'm Here, a sort of robot romance that stars one of my favorite new actors Andrew Garfield (he's going to be the 'new' Spiderman). Eggers, meanwhile, continues on his not-fiction run with his first book of drawings titled It Is Right to Draw Their Fur (I'm really hoping that's his work up there in the poster). He'll be interviewing Jonze for the Q&A, and then there'll be a live performance by Aska, whose music appeared in I'm Here.

Even with Jonze alone, this event is sure to be entertaining, but it'll be even greater to see the two friends play off of each other and support each other's works. Again, Family is pretty tiny, so be sure to get there way before the 8:30pm start time to grab a chance at meeting the two; it's doubtful you'll regret it.

Family is located at 436 N. Fairfax Ave. in Mid-City.

-- Chau Tu

Check It. I'm Here.

Spike Jonze as a filmmaker, artist, Jackass, man, whathaveyou is often a subject of contention; is this guy for real? Is he a genius or a lucky break? Funny or trying too hard? This trailer and subsequent short film seems like it can only further push you in either direction. (I, for one, have been swooning over Jonze for years.)

Bear with me here. What I'm about to show you is pretty weird. The only words I could utter after seeing this the first time (I actually watched it immediately twice in a row) was, 'I'm speechless.' But then I paused, took a deep breath, and smiled. This--whatever it is--is awesome. Don't forget your sense of humor (and try your best to ignore that Absolut Vodka thing).



Yeah, I know. And yes, it's real.

I'm Here premiered at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this week, and will be released in March.

-- Chau Tu

*props to the sprawlster for the tip. Feel free to send your own tips/links/love letters to thebeatofyounglosangeles@gmail.com or in the comments section.

Photo credit: I'm Here