Wednesday, July 31, 2024

Pumpkin Bomb Reference

Here's a wonderful replica of the Green Goblin Pumpkin Bomb from one of the Sam Raimi Spider-Man movies...that's in a blink-and-you'll-miss-it joke on Smiling Friends seen above.

Weekly What To Do: Get Your Cat On

 
CatCon 2024
Saturday August 3rd and Sunday August 4th at the Pasadena Convention Center
Show hours are 10 am – 5 pm each day
Pasadena Convention Center
300 East Green Street Pasadena, CA 91101
 $11.42
 
 It's like Comic Con, but for cat people!
 
Aug 3-14
Vidiots
$
 
"Meow! The world’s #1 cat video festival is back! Oscilloscope Laboratories presents CatVideoFest 2024, a compilation of the latest and best cat videos culled from countless hours of unique submissions and sourced animations, music videos, and classic internet powerhouses. CatVideoFest is a joyous communal experience, only available in theaters, and raises money for cats in need through partnerships with local cat charities, animal welfare organizations, and shelters to best serve cats in the area."
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Adrift Two Person Exhibition featuring Kelly Sux and Yusei Abe
Sat Aug 3rd: Art Live at 12 Noon / IG Tour at 12 Noon.
Artist Reception with Both Kelly Sux and Yusei Abe 6-9pm
Show Duration: Aug 3rd - Aug 19th 2024

Brew at the L.A. Zoo: A Sip & Stroll Event 2024
Saturday, August 3
6:30 – 10 p.m. for Standard ticket holders
6 p.m. start for VIP ticket holders
L.A. Zoo
21+
$
 
Cheers” to the highlight of the summer event season, now with tasting delights for nightlife adventurers of all stripes. Explore the Zoo and sample craft brews, distilled spirits, creative cocktails and mocktails, and a range of alcohol-free sips while enjoying music from popular KCRW DJs Tyler Boudreaux and Raul Campos, pop-up animal keeper talks, tasty food available for purchase, and more.
 
 
 
 
Aug 1-7
NoHo 7
$

"The Valley Film Festival (VFF) was founded by Los Angeles native, and proud “Valley Girl,” Tracey Adlai, in 2000, to spotlight locally produced films in response to the San Fernando Valley’s attempt to secede from Los Angeles. VFF remains the first and continuously running film festival in The Valley and runs August 1-8, like the area code (818), at the Laemmle NoHo 7 in North Hollywood."
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Radical Botany Curated by Anya Ventura
LACE Screening Room
Saturday, August 3, 2024, 2–5 PM
Philosophical Research Society
3910 Los Feliz Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Limited free parking available on site
Free admission

LACE Screening Room presents Radical Botany, curated by Anya Ventura. This film program engages with the idea of radical botany, defined by scholars Natania Meeker and Antónia Szabari as when “plants are not just objects of manipulation but participants in the effort to imagine new worlds and to envision new futures.” The program is followed by a discussion, moderated by Anya Ventura, with Antonia Szabari and Natania Meeker, authors of Radical Botany: Plants and Speculative Fiction; botanist Peri Lee Pipkin, and artist Star Feliz. The event will also feature a Bouquet Bar prepared by Emily Alford from Muddy Heaven.






Extra:

Every Saturday and Sunday 11am-5pm
1030 Alpine Street,
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Free Admission


Pageant of the Masters, world-famous for its presentation of “living pictures,” steps into the world of fashion with its newest production, "À La Mode: The Art of Fashion." Dazzling audiences since its opening on July 6, this fresh, innovative theatrical experience is an unforgettable evening where masterpieces come to life and iconic fashion trends take center stage. Presented by the Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach, performances are held nightly through August 30, 2024.

 

OFF THE 405 is the Getty Center's annual outdoor summer concert series, bringing some of today's most exciting bands to the stage for a memorable experience amid stunning architecture and breathtaking sunset views.

Skirball Cultural Center 
SUNSET CONCERTS
Thursday evenings, July 18-August 08, 2024, at 8:00 pm
Doors open at 6:30 pm, inviting visitors to eat, drink, shop and see exhibitions

This year’s international lineup highlights artists of the African and Caribbean diasporas who proudly express their cross-cultural connections.

 
UCB, a cheapo comedy show almost every night, see comedians before they make podcasts and have
stories about the UCB and before they hit the big time.
 


American Cinematheque-A celebrated independent theater group that brings both the talent and catalog of films to make for some of LA's best movie nights.
 

Street Food Cinema-Outdoor cult or recent hits you'll love.

Check out classics and cult movies just a few stories above street level. Rooftop Movies at The Montalbán.


 New Bev-Tarantino owned independent theater with old school style

Cinelounge - Hollywood based tiny theater, showing off indies you've never heard of
 
Brain Dead Studios-manages to fill its schedule almost every night
611 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
 
Vidiots -A one-of-a-kind hub for film lovers, filmmakers, and everyone curious about cinema. A small theater is more than made-up for with the constant content and special screenings.
4884 Eagle Rock Blvd
 
 
Art
 
March 2-Sept 1
Japanese American National Museum
100 North Central Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Admission $

Giant Robot Biennale 5 features artists Sean Chao, Felicia Chiao, Luke Chueh, Giorgiko, James Jean,
Taylor Lee, Rain Szeto, and Yoskay Yamamoto, among others. Since 2007, JANM has partnered with Eric Nakamura, founder of Giant Robot, to produce the Giant Robot Biennale, a recurring art exhibition that highlights diverse creative works celebrating the brand’s ethos.
 
 
05.02.2024 (Thu.) – 11.03.2024 (Sun.)
JAPAN HOUSE Gallery, Level 2
Free
 
 “Yes, KAWAII is Art -EXPRESS YOURSELF-” is the first exhibition in which Masuda, known as the “King of Kawaii,” brings together multiple artworks unravelling the concepts within the phenomena while introducing his personal story of sharing kawaii with the world. Through his collection of artifacts from the origins of the culture and dazzling immersive art installations, visitors are invited to explore the cultural context and significance of the kawaii movement and step into the colorful world to feel the aesthetic for themselves, emphasizing its role in fostering a sense of joy, innocence, and community as a tool for self-expression and representation of a worldwide tribe to which we can all belong.
 
March 9, 2024 – September 8, 2024
Bowers Museum 
$ Admission
 
 Never-before-seen at a museum and making its American debut, Asian Comics: Evolution of an Art Form presents the largest ever selection of original artworks from Asian comics, displayed alongside their printed, mass-produced forms. This exhibition is a vivid journey through the art of comics and visual storytelling across Asia. From its historical roots to the most recent digital innovations, the exhibition looks to popular Japanese manga and beyond, highlighting key creators
 



Sunday, July 28, 2024

Super Mario World Dinosaur Land Map By Glen Brogan

 


Dinosaur Land Map, by one of our favorite artists, Glen Brogan, is up now from SDCC. I mean...just amazing. 3 different sizes, but limited to 255?...for each size?

SDCC: Facehugger Masks & Sonic Merch Why?

Friday, July 26, 2024

Date Everything!

 

How far have we gone?

"Date Everything! announcement trailer for the new dating sim game from voice actors turned developers Amanda Hufford (Genshin Impact, The Amazing Digital Circus), Max Mittelman (One Punch Man, Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth, Persona 5), Ray Chase (Final Fantasy XV, X-Men ‘97, Licorice Pizza), and Robbie Daymond (Marvel's Spider-Man, Critical Role, HiFi-Rush).

Don the “Dateviator” glasses and chat up various dateable objects around your home as each one can result in a Friend, Love, or Hate relationship resolution. Check out some Date Everything! gameplay for a look at what to expect.

From Team17 and developer Sassy Chap Games, Date Everything! will be released on PS5 (PlayStation 5), Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC (Steam)."

Anime Expo Minutes: Here's Video Coverage From AX

 


And, we'll have more minutes in the future to prepare you for AX Chibi in November.




Thursday, July 25, 2024

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice: The Afterlife Experience Coming This August

Don't say it a third time, but maybe book it now, it's the Beetlejuice Beetlejuice: The Afterlife Experience. This brand new pop-up experience is to coincide with the movies release (Sept) and Halloween. In late August you can go through what it's like to be recently deceased...at least on how Beetlejuice's world sees it. It'll be at the Ovation Hollywood. Tickets to die for seem to start at $25.

"Step beyond the screen and into the Afterlife where everyone’s favorite bio-exorcist, Beetlejuice, is dying to see you! For a limited time, grab your Afterlife Passport and take a seat in the Waiting Room, where you’ll be immersed into the strange and unusual world of the Recently Deceased filled with ghoulish, interactive entertainment, photo ops, themed food & drinks…that are to die for."

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

Weekly What To Do: Comic-Con Frees Up LA For The Weekend

 

Go anywhere with less traffic and people as most are over at Comic-Con.

Thursday Jul. 25
NoHo 7
 
Our guest, Gale Anne Hurd emerged as one of the most successful female producers of the era, with 'Aliens,' 'Alien Nation,' and 'Armageddon' among her hits.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Thursday, Jul 25, 6:00 pm
Taco Bell Cantina
801 W 7th St.
Los Angeles, CA 90017
Free, Must RSVP

"You're invited to come party in the new Rock 'n' Roll themed Cantina and enjoy live music and free exclusive Taco Bell branded T-shirts. Plus, the first 50 people in line get a raffle ticket for a chance to win some big prizes, including a custom Taco Bell wrapped guitar! Guests must RSVP online and show QR code at the door to participate. The LA Taco Bell Cantina offers an unforgettable experience. Come see what it means to Live Más!

The Cantina serves up all the cheesy, craveable classics you know and love, from mouthwatering tacos and savory burritos to delicious quesadillas. At the heart of the Cantina is its elevated bar, featuring the signature "Bottoms Up Beer" system, mixed drinks and a variety of freeze flavors, which you can add your favorite booze to for a refreshing twist."

July 26-28
LA Convention Center
$$

Kpop bands dominate downtown LA.

 
Back to the Future Part III
July 27, 2024 8:00 PM
The Autry Museum
General Admission $22
 
We're celebrating National Day of the Cowboy with the Autry Museum of the American West and what better way to do so than with a time travel spin off on Westerns, Back to the Future Part III!

Complimentary popcorn courtesy of Pluto TV (while supplies last).
 
 
 
 
 
Sat Jul 27, 2024 - 7:30 PM
Peacock Theater
$
 
Join Mel Brooks at the Peacock Theater Saturday, July 27th for a celebration of the 50th anniversary of his iconic comedy classic, Blazing Saddles. This special event features a live interview and audience Q&A with the Peabody, Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award-winning Mel Brooks following a full-length screening of Blazing Saddles on the big screen.
 
Saturday, July 27 · 11am - 3pm
Harley-Davidson of Glendale
3717 San Fernando Road Glendale, CA 91204
Free
 
Join us at Harley-Davidson of Glendale for a day of delicious fun at our Root Beer Float Day event! Mark your calendars and rev up your taste buds for a sweet and satisfying experience. Don't miss out on this exciting event!
 
A SMALL WORKS GROUP SHOW
SMOL (Gallery I)
LUCAS LOBOW
I WATER FLOWERS IN THE RAIN (Gallery I)
HENDRA “HEHE” HARSANO
Once Upon A Blue Light (Gallery II)
ALVARO NADDEO
Reaganomics Killed America’s Middle Class (Gallery III)
Z The Rat (AKA ZEINAB DIOMANDE)
Seeing Through Arbitrary Realms (Gallery IV)
Opening Reception with the Artist(s):
Saturday, June 29, 2024 6:00-10:00pm
THINKSPACE PROJECTS
4207 W. Jefferson Blvd. + 4217 W. Jefferson Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90016
 
‘SMOL’ showcase works sized 16×20 inches and under. We want to give young collectors and those on a budget the chance to get something nice for themselves, as well as encouraging all to collect smaller works as previously shared. They bring so much joy. The show title playing up the popular internet slang for saying someone or something is small in size, so cute that you just want to squeeze ’em.
 
Tuesday, July 30 · 7:30
TCL Chinese 6 Theatres
6801 Hollywood Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90028
$17.87
 
Join us for a special screening of the found footage film that started it all: The Blair Witch Project. Q&A with Ben Rock moderated by Brian Collins follows the screening.

Follow the tale of the three students who went missing over 25 years ago. A truly terrifying that has left many wondering, does the Blair Witch exist?

And stick around for the end where we'll be doing trivia and giving away prizes including signed Blair Witch memorabilia by Ben Rock.
 
Extra: 
 

OFF THE 405 is the Getty Center's annual outdoor summer concert series, bringing some of today's most exciting bands to the stage for a memorable experience amid stunning architecture and breathtaking sunset views.

Skirball Cultural Center 
SUNSET CONCERTS
Thursday evenings, July 18-August 08, 2024, at 8:00 pm
Doors open at 6:30 pm, inviting visitors to eat, drink, shop and see exhibitions

This year’s international lineup highlights artists of the African and Caribbean diasporas who proudly express their cross-cultural connections.

 
UCB, a cheapo comedy show almost every night, see comedians before they make podcasts and have
stories about the UCB and before they hit the big time.
 


American Cinematheque-A celebrated independent theater group that brings both the talent and catalog of films to make for some of LA's best movie nights.
 

Street Food Cinema-Outdoor cult or recent hits you'll love.

Check out classics and cult movies just a few stories above street level. Rooftop Movies at The Montalbán.


 New Bev-Tarantino owned independent theater with old school style

Cinelounge - Hollywood based tiny theater, showing off indies you've never heard of
 
Brain Dead Studios-manages to fill its schedule almost every night
611 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
 
Vidiots -A one-of-a-kind hub for film lovers, filmmakers, and everyone curious about cinema. A small theater is more than made-up for with the constant content and special screenings.
4884 Eagle Rock Blvd
 
 
Art
 
March 2-Sept 1
Japanese American National Museum
100 North Central Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Admission $

Giant Robot Biennale 5 features artists Sean Chao, Felicia Chiao, Luke Chueh, Giorgiko, James Jean,
Taylor Lee, Rain Szeto, and Yoskay Yamamoto, among others. Since 2007, JANM has partnered with Eric Nakamura, founder of Giant Robot, to produce the Giant Robot Biennale, a recurring art exhibition that highlights diverse creative works celebrating the brand’s ethos.
 
 
05.02.2024 (Thu.) – 11.03.2024 (Sun.)
JAPAN HOUSE Gallery, Level 2
Free
 
 “Yes, KAWAII is Art -EXPRESS YOURSELF-” is the first exhibition in which Masuda, known as the “King of Kawaii,” brings together multiple artworks unravelling the concepts within the phenomena while introducing his personal story of sharing kawaii with the world. Through his collection of artifacts from the origins of the culture and dazzling immersive art installations, visitors are invited to explore the cultural context and significance of the kawaii movement and step into the colorful world to feel the aesthetic for themselves, emphasizing its role in fostering a sense of joy, innocence, and community as a tool for self-expression and representation of a worldwide tribe to which we can all belong.
 
March 9, 2024 – September 8, 2024
Bowers Museum 
$ Admission
 
 Never-before-seen at a museum and making its American debut, Asian Comics: Evolution of an Art Form presents the largest ever selection of original artworks from Asian comics, displayed alongside their printed, mass-produced forms. This exhibition is a vivid journey through the art of comics and visual storytelling across Asia. From its historical roots to the most recent digital innovations, the exhibition looks to popular Japanese manga and beyond, highlighting key creators