‘Jaja’s African Hair Braiding’ Review: The Mark Taper Forum Has an Ensemble Comedy Rich and Rewarding Enough to Merit Extensions

OutfestNext is back with an exciting lineup, showcasing 20 films including Bryan Fuller's directorial debut 'Dust Bunny' and Yen Tan's 'All That We Love'. This four-day event, running from November 6-9 in Los Angeles, highlights the importance of LGBTQ+ representation in cinema and offers a platform for diverse voices in the film industry. It's a great opportunity for film lovers to engage with new stories and support the LGBTQ+ community.

Outfest is making a vibrant comeback after a two-year break with its new screening series, OutfestNEXT, set to take place from November 6-9 at the LA LGBT Center’s Renberg Theatre and LOOK cinema in Glendale. This exciting event will showcase 20 features and shorts, including a special celebration for the 25th anniversary of 'Broken Hearts Club.' Presented by HBO Max, this festival not only highlights diverse storytelling but also strengthens the LGBTQ community's presence in cinema, making it a significant cultural moment.

Militarie Gun, a band from Los Angeles, has transformed from a pandemic project into a vibrant indie-punk force with their new album 'God Save the Gun'. This release marks a shift from their hardcore roots to catchy singalongs, showcasing their melodic and cinematic songwriting. This evolution not only highlights their growth as artists but also reflects a broader trend in the music scene where bands are exploring new sounds and styles, making it an exciting time for indie music lovers.

The upcoming documentary 'The Age of Disclosure' by Dan Farah is generating excitement as it aims to reveal the truth about non-human intelligence and our place in the universe. Set for an Oscar-qualifying run in select theaters in New York and Los Angeles starting November 21, it will also be available on Amazon Prime. This film matters because it challenges our understanding of existence and could spark important conversations about extraterrestrial life.

Diane Keaton, the iconic actress known for her roles in 'Annie Hall' and 'First Wives Club,' has passed away at the age of 79 in Los Angeles. Her family has recently revealed the cause of her death, which has saddened fans and the film community alike. Keaton's contributions to cinema and her unique style have left a lasting impact, making her a beloved figure in Hollywood. This news matters as it marks the loss of a significant talent whose work has inspired many.

Yolonda E. Lawrence, a talented writer and producer known for her work on popular shows like Empire and Riverdale, has passed away at the age of 56. Her unexpected death on October 10 in Los Angeles has left many in the entertainment industry mourning the loss of a creative force. Lawrence's contributions to television have made a significant impact, and her absence will be felt by fans and colleagues alike.

KFI in Los Angeles has canceled its evening talk show, a move that highlights the ongoing struggles of AM radio. Morris O'Kelly, the show's host, expressed concern about the future of AM radio, suggesting that significant changes are on the horizon. This cancellation reflects broader trends in the media landscape, where traditional radio faces increasing competition from digital platforms. As listeners shift their preferences, the implications for local broadcasting and community engagement are significant.

The recent decline in reality TV production in Los Angeles has resulted in a significant nearly 21% drop in overall TV shoot days during the third quarter. This downturn is concerning as it not only affects the local economy but also impacts jobs in the entertainment industry, highlighting the challenges faced by producers and crews in a competitive market.

Production activity in Los Angeles has hit a new low, falling below the already diminished levels seen during the 2023 writers and actors strikes. This decline is primarily driven by a significant drop in reality TV production, which has experienced its second-worst quarter in the past 15 years. This trend is concerning as it highlights ongoing challenges in the entertainment industry, affecting jobs and the local economy.

Los Angeles has seen a continued decline in on-location film production, dropping 13.2% in the third quarter of 2025 compared to last year. However, FilmLA, the city's film permitting office, suggests that California's revamped tax credit program may soon provide relief and encourage more production activity. This is significant as it highlights the ongoing challenges in the film industry while also pointing to potential solutions that could revitalize local production.

Cinema United has decided to extend Michael O’Leary's contract as CEO and President for another five years, a move that reflects confidence in his leadership since he took over in 2023. This decision, made unanimously by the Executive Board during their meeting in Los Angeles, is significant as it ensures stability and continuity in the organization, which plays a crucial role in the exhibition trade. O’Leary's leadership is expected to guide Cinema United through the evolving landscape of the cinema industry.

Synnove Karlsen, known for her roles in 'Foundation' and 'Miss Austen', is set to make her New York stage debut as Eliza Doolittle in the Off-Broadway production of George Bernard Shaw's 'Pygmalion'. This is exciting news for theater lovers, as Karlsen will be joined by Mark Evans, who will portray Professor Henry Higgins. 'Pygmalion' is a classic that has influenced many adaptations, including the beloved musical 'My Fair Lady', making this production a must-see for fans of both the original play and its adaptations.

Ofcom has declared that a BBC documentary about Gaza, aired earlier this year, constitutes a serious breach of broadcasting rules, labeling it as 'materially misleading.' This ruling is significant as it raises questions about media accountability and the standards of reporting on sensitive issues, particularly in conflict zones.

As awards season approaches, aspiring filmmakers have a unique opportunity to showcase their talent by directing a film that could potentially win an Oscar. This initiative not only highlights the creativity and innovation within the film industry but also encourages new voices to emerge in Hollywood. It's an exciting time for those looking to make their mark in cinema.

Justine Ryst, head of YouTube's France and Southern Europe branch, recently spoke at the International Classic Film Market in Lyon, celebrating the platform's 20th anniversary. She emphasized YouTube's role as a vital space for heritage films, stating that it allows these cultural treasures to endure and connect with audiences across generations. This perspective highlights the importance of digital platforms in preserving cinematic history and making classic films accessible to new viewers, ensuring that they continue to resonate in today's fast-paced media landscape.

Maurice Rutherford, a beloved poet from Hull, has passed away at the age of 103. Known for his unique blend of warmth, mischief, and political insight, Rutherford's poetry reflects the authentic voice of working-class experience. His works, which include love poems and elegies for his late wife, showcase his mastery of language and form. His contributions to poetry not only celebrate his home city but also engage with the literary legacy of contemporaries like Philip Larkin. His passing is a significant loss to the literary community.

The BBC has been sanctioned by Ofcom for airing a documentary titled 'Gaza: How to Survive a Warzone,' which was deemed materially misleading. This ruling requires the BBC to broadcast a live statement acknowledging the serious editorial failings associated with the film. This situation highlights the importance of accountability in media reporting, especially regarding sensitive topics like war, and raises questions about the standards of accuracy and responsibility in journalism.