Ever hear the old adage “learn by watching”? This week’s slate of events exemplifies the cliche by featuring screenings of some of the most exciting films coming to our fair city this week. Make sure to take advantage of the opportunity to not only see these hot flicks but also learn a thing or two from the folks behind them. It’s the kind of thing that reminds you why you’re an actor… and why you’re in L.A., period.
Hear the inside story of “Mary Poppins Returns” with Emily Blunt.
Remakes abound in Hollywood today, but the highly anticipated “Mary Poppins Returns” starring Blunt and Lin-Manuel Miranda is less a do-over of the Academy Award–winning film starring Julie Andrews and more a sequel with new adventures and characters. Get a sneak preview of what’s sure to be a major holiday blockbuster on Nov. 16 as SAG-AFTRA Foundation presents the film plus a Q&A to follow with Blunt and Access Hollywood’s Scott Mantz. Come prepared with your burning inquiries about what it’s like to transform into one of the most iconic roles of all time. (Free for union members)
Navigate the complex world of “Beautiful Boy” with its creative team.
Already a buzzed-about Oscar contender “Beautiful Boy” is a drug-addled drama starring Steve Carell and Timothée Chalamet as journalist David Sheff and his troubled son, Nic, respectively. Based on a true story told via dual memoirs by father and son, the film guides viewers through an agonizing journey and showcases sublime performances. On Nov. 17, head to the Egyptian Theatre for a screening of the movie, followed by a discussion with director Felix Van Groeningen, writer Luke Davies, and actor Maura Tierney. Not only is it an excellent opportunity to dive into the process of turning real-life events into a major production but also explore why the film’s message is so important for today. (Free with RSVP)
WATCH: Timothée Chalamet + Steve Carell Are Heart-Shattering in ‘Beautiful Boy’ Trailer
Discover why a 23-year-old indie film resonates with audiences today.
Another film that eerily taps into social and political issues that are as relevant in 2018 as they were when the movie was released in 1995 is “Mi Familia,” often called in English, “My Family.” Focusing on several generations of Mexican and Mexican-American family members, and starring Jennifer Lopez, Jimmy Smits, Esai Morales, and more, its plot deals with issues like deportation, immigration, and a whole host of relatable interpersonal drama. Join co-star Constance Marie for a screening and Q&A at the historic Los Feliz Theater on Nov. 15 to discover how this East L.A.–set tale still resonates, for better or worse, in current-day Los Angeles. ($15)
Spend two days immersed in all things pop culture and entertainment.
While some L.A. film fests are a bit formal, Vulture Fest embraces all that pop culture is and creates something accessible, interesting, and important in today’s entertainment industry. This year’s festival takes place at the Hollywood Roosevelt Nov. 17–18 and features a whole host of events perfect for L.A. actors at any stage in their careers. A few of our favorite picks for these jam-packed two days? A conversation about podcast-turned-series “Dirty John” with stars Connie Britton and Eric Bana (Nov. 17), a chat with Constance Wu (Nov. 17), and a morning with actor-turned-gubernatorial-candidate Cynthia Nixon (Nov. 18). (Varies by event; all-access pass is $425)
Check out Backstage’s Los Angeles audition listings!