Real Estate in Los Angeles

Real Estate in Los Angeles

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What’s the biggest misconception about the Los Angeles housing market right now?

People still talk about LA like it is one market moving in one direction. It is not. One street can feel soft, the next one feels competitive, depending on price, condition, layout, and how realistic the seller is. The other misconception is that prices are “crashing.” What I am seeing is more of a slow, selective reset, not a free fall.

Are we in a correction, stabilization period, or a new long-term pricing reality:

We are in a correction that is turning into stabilization, with a new normal pace. The easy years are gone, buyers are pickier, and overpriced homes sit. Well-priced homes, especially ones that feel turnkey, still sell, but usually with more negotiation and more time. I do not think we are going back to the old interest rate world, so pricing must reflect today’s monthly payment reality.

Which neighborhoods are quietly outperforming expectations:

A few areas are holding up better than people assume, mostly because supply is still tight and demand stays steady for neighborhoods with strong lifestyle pull and good day-to-day convenience. I’m seeing consistent strength in pockets of the Westside, including Mar Vista, and in eastside neighborhoods like Silver Lake and Los Feliz. Parts of the South Bay are also staying active, especially for homes that are well-located and move-in ready. The common thread is simple, good product, priced right, still sells.Is luxury still driving the narrative in LA, or are mid-tier buyers shaping the future?

Luxury still gets the headlines, but the day-to-day market is being shaped by the buyers right below that top tier. They are the ones doing the most deals, negotiating the hardest, and setting the tone on value. At the luxury end, great properties still trade, but buyers want a reason to act, and they want the home to feel special, not just expensive.

 How have interest rates changed buyer psychology in Southern California, specifically:

Rates changed the conversation from “Do we love it?” to “Does this payment make sense?” Buyers are more payment-focused, more analytical, and less willing to stretch for a maybe. They are also more comfortable asking for seller credits, repairs, and price adjustments because they feel the carrying cost every month. Even with rates dipping lately, the mindset has shifted, and I do not think it snaps back overnight.

 

My Philosophy “Life’s experiences have shaped my resilience and perspective and taught me to focus on what truly matters. I am fulfilled by the support of my family and inspired by art, both of which keep me grounded and creative.In my work, I bring these values forward. I serve with honesty and integrity, always protecting my clients’ best interests and guiding them with care. To me, real estate is not just about property — it’s about trust, connection, and helping people take meaningful steps in their lives.”

Michael Collins is a Beverly Hills real estate agent with 30+ years of experience representing buyers and sellers throughout Beverly Hills and West Hollywood. A lifelong Beverly Hills resident and Beverly Hills High School alum, Michael has spent his career working in the communities he knows best.

After an early career in entertainment management, Michael transitioned into residential real estate, bringing a client first approach built on discretion, clear communication, and strong negotiation. He is known for guiding clients through complex decisions with calm, direct advice in an ever-changing Los Angeles real estate market.\

Michael specializes in Beverly Hills and West Hollywood real estate, with particular expertise in architectural homes, condominiums, and legacy properties. His clients include creatives, executives, attorneys, and long-time homeowners, many of whom work with him repeatedly over the years.

SoCal Museums Free-for-All 2026

SoCal Museums Free-for-All 2026

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What is better than art that is free? Plan ahead as SoCal’s most beloved art day is officially back.

On Sunday, February 22, 2026, Museums Free-for-All returns with a region-wide invitation to experience Southern California’s museums with free general admission for one day only. The annual celebration brings together art, design, history, film, science, and cultural institutions across Los Angeles, Orange County, the Inland Empire, and Santa Barbara.

Museums Free-for-All has become a Southern California cultural tradition, offering an open-door moment when longtime locals, first-time visitors, families, and art lovers alike can explore the region’s creative landscape without cost. From contemporary art and classical collections to science centers and cultural museums, the day encourages discovery, curiosity, and access.

Free admission applies to general collections and galleries. Advance reservations or timed tickets may be required by some museums, and parking or special exhibitions may carry separate fees. Visitors are encouraged to check individual museum websites in advance.

Participating Museums (selection)

Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
https://www.academymuseum.org

American Museum of Ceramic Art
https://www.amoca.org

Bakersfield Museum of Art
https://www.bmoa.org

Benton Museum of Art at Pomona College
https://www.pomona.edu/museum

Bowers Museum
https://www.bowers.org

The Broad
https://www.thebroad.org

Craft Contemporary
https://www.craftcontemporary.org

Fowler Museum at UCLA
https://fowler.ucla.edu

Hammer Museum
https://hammer.ucla.edu

Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles
https://www.theicala.org

Long Beach Museum of Art
https://www.lbma.org

Los Angeles County Museum of Art
https://www.lacma.org

MOCA Grand Avenue and The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA
https://www.moca.org

Santa Barbara Museum of Art
https://www.sbma.net

Autry Museum of the American West
https://theautry.org

Skirball Cultural Center
https://www.skirball.org

Columbia Memorial Space Center
https://www.columbiaspacescience.org

Additional participating museums and full event details:
https://socalmuseums.org

 

Forest Lawn Celebrates Black History Month

Forest Lawn Celebrates Black History Month

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GLENDALE, CA—Forest Lawn will celebrate Black History Month with a free, one-night-only event on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 4:00-7:30 PM. Forest Lawn, in partnership with producer Charles Lane, will bring African American experiences and culture to life with moving music, dance, and poetry performed by a troupe of singers and dancers and a five-piece band, as well as a keynote speech by Steven Lewis, an award-winning architect and social justice advocate, and an inspiring talk by Zach Andrews, Diversity Apprenticeship Program Director at The Broad. Michael Ellington will narrate the evening’s festivities. A community resource and networking fair with local education, health, housing, and volunteer organizations, along with complimentary refreshments and beverages, will precede the performance.

“Forest Lawn looks forward to our annual Black History Month performance and event each year,” said Rodolfo Saenz, Forest Lawn’s Senior Vice President, Marketing. “The performance brings our community together to celebrate and honor the African American experience through a variety of artistic mediums and forms of expression. The resource fair introduces people to organizations working in our communities, further broadening networks and creating connections.”

­Forest Lawn’s Black History Month event takes place on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 4:00-7:30 PM, inside the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection at Forest Lawn–Glendale, 1712 S. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, CA 91205. Doors open at 4:00 PM for the resource fair and pre-show reception with refreshments, music, and prizes, and continues with a 6:00 PM curtain for the performance. Seating is available on a first come, first served basis; standing room only is anticipated. Admission and parking are FREE. Visit forestlawn.com/events for more information.

Forest Lawn Museum’s exhibition “In Bloom: Flowers in Contemporary Art” will also be on view in the neighboring Forest Lawn Museum until 5:00 PM. The exhibition explores contemporary approaches to the timeless floral theme. The media and artworks in the exhibition vary dramatically, with paintings, sculptures, installation, and video that range from naturalistic to abstract, and from playful to contemplative. “In Bloom” features the work of David Flores, DABSMYLA, Francesca Gabbiani and Eddie Ruscha, Simonette David Jackson, Jasmyn Marie, Analia Saban, Kim Schoen, and Tiffanie Turner, with new works by most artists. The exhibition is on view through February 15, 2026. Find additional information at https://museum.forestlawn.com/blogs/forest-lawn-museum-exhibitions/in-bloom-flowers-in-contemporary-art.

  Image credits (left to right): Camel Pugh dances during Forest Lawn’s Black History Month event. Courtesy of Forest Lawn; Joyce Guy sings in the spotlight at Forest Lawn’s Black History Month event. Courtesy of Forest Lawn.

For additional information and media inquiries about the Black History Month event or Forest Lawn Memorial–Parks & Mortuaries, please contact Tom Smith at 323.340.4742 or tsmith@forestlawn.com.

 About Forest Lawn Memorial–Parks & Mortuaries

For more than a century, Forest Lawn has been an integral part of Southern California. Since its founding, Forest Lawn has committed itself to providing outstanding service and beautiful environments for family outings, remembering loved ones and commemorating holidays. Forest Lawn’s locations in the Los Angeles, Orange and Riverside counties serve all faiths and cultures, and offer a wide range of celebrations and special events with competitively priced cremation and traditional funeral services throughout Southern California. Glendale – FD 656

About the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection

Located next to Forest Lawn Museum, the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection showcases the Crucifixion (195 ft. x 45 ft.), which is the largest painting in the Western United States. It was painted by Polish artist Jan Styka in the 1890s. The building also houses the Resurrection (70 ft. x 51 ft.), which was painted by American artist Robert Clark in 1965. Visitors can view the newly revamped 18-minute, documentary-style audiovisual program, which includes a new video and narration that tell the history of two colossal paintings and the unique building that Forest Lawn created to house them. The audiovisual program runs Tuesday–Sunday on the hour (10 AM-4 PM, closed at 1 PM for lunch). Closed occasionally for special events. For more details about the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection, visit https://museum.forestlawn.com/pages/hall-of-crucifixion-resurrection.

Great Mausoleum visiting hours: Daily from 9:30 AM–4:15 PM

Admission and parking to Forest Lawn Museum, the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection, and the Great Mausoleum are FREE.

For more information or to schedule a free group tour, please call 323.340.4782, email museum@forestlawn.com, or visit https://museum.forestlawn.com/.

The Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection is located at Forest Lawn—Glendale, 1712 S. Glendale Blvd., Glendale, CA 91205. Please note, the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection is located at the top of the hill within Forest Lawn-Glendale. Please follow event signage. 

About Forest Lawn Museum

Forest Lawn Museum first opened in 1952 and is now comprised of three galleries and a gift shop. The renowned permanent collection of sculpture, stained glass windows, mosaics, and architecture is spread across Forest Lawn’s six Southern California locations. Forest Lawn’s founder, Dr. Hubert Eaton, wrote in his Builder’s Creed that our park should be “a place where artists study and sketch; where school teachers bring happy children to see the things they read of in books.” In that spirit, selections of Forest Lawn Museum’s permanent collection of photographs, paintings, and bronze and marble sculptures are on display in the museum’s front gallery. Forest Lawn Museum typically dedicates two galleries to world-class rotating exhibits, which focus on topics ranging from aerial photography to puppetry to stained glass.

Forest Lawn Museum is located adjacent to the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection, which houses the Crucifixion, a 195-foot wide by 45-foot-high painting by Polish artist Jan Styka. Other notable pieces in Forest Lawn’s collection can be found in the Great Mausoleum, including the Last Supper stained glass window by artist Rosa Caselli-Moretti, the Poets’ Windows, and marble replicas of Michelangelo’s Moses and Pietà.

World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day

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Today, SoCalMag joins communities around the world in honoring World AIDS Day, a moment of reflection, remembrance, and renewed commitment. We stand with the millions of people whose lives have been touched by HIV and AIDS—those we have lost, those living and thriving with HIV today, the caregivers, the activists, and the innovators who continue to push for progress.

World AIDS Day reminds us that the fight is not over. In Southern California and beyond, access to testing, prevention, and treatment remains essential, as does the ongoing work to end stigma. The message is clear: compassion, education, and visibility save lives.

At SoCalMag, we recognize the extraordinary strides made in HIV research and healthcare—from PrEP and PEP to the life-changing impact of U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable). These breakthroughs reflect decades of advocacy and resilience from communities determined to create a future free of HIV-related discrimination and loss.

On this day, we honor the past, support the present, and look forward to a healthier, more equitable tomorrow. We encourage our readers to learn, reflect, and engage—because awareness is action.

Join us for World AIDS Day on the evening of Monday, December 1 at the newly opened STORIES: The AIDS Monument.

Gather with us on World AIDS Day 2025 as we remember, mourn, resist, and celebrate true stories with the APLA Health Writers Group, a program founded in 1989 for HIV+ writers and allies.

The event will be curated by former West Hollywood Poet Laureate Brian Sonia-Wallace.

Program and time to explore STORIES: The AIDS Monument
5:30-6:30 p.m. at The Monument in West Hollywood Park, 625 N. San Vicente Blvd., West Hollywood CA 90069

Reception
6:30-8:30 p.m. at One Gallery, 626 N. Robertson Blvd. (walking distance from The Monument) – Refreshments, beverages and a chance to see the new Herb Ritts exhibition

This event is co-sponsored by APLA Health, One Institute and the Foundation for The AIDS Monument.

Together, we remember. Together, we stand. Together, we move forward.

Herb Ritts “Allies & Icons” Exhibition Opens November 14

Herb Ritts “Allies & Icons” Exhibition Opens November 14

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In conjunction with the long-awaited unveiling of STORIES: The AIDS Monument in West Hollywood, the Herb Ritts Foundation, in partnership with Fahey/Klein Gallery, and ONE Gallery, is proud to present Herb Ritts: Allies & Icons – an intimate exhibition of Herb Ritts’ photographs that honor the activists, artists, and cultural leaders who helped transform the global fight against AIDS.

WHAT MAKES AN ACTIVIST? What constitutes the inner fire of someone who dares to step forward in the face of injustice? At the heart of activism lies radical empathy. This profound and overwhelming care for others is not casual or fleeting, but fierce, insistent, and transformative. Activists see the suffering of others not as distant but as personal, and they respond with action against the tide of rumor, stigma, and prejudice. When HIV and AIDS first swept across the world, it shook the foundations of culture and community. Humanity lost some of its most brilliant creators – musicians, painters, photographers, writers. Their absence was unthinkable. And yet, amid the despair, voices of courage rose.

Every struggle has its warriors. In the war against AIDS, some of these courageous figures are represented in the portraits taken by Herb Ritts. Himself, both an activist and, later, a victim of AIDS, Ritts used his camera as a weapon of truth. In the tradition of Man Ray, Edward Steichen, Richard Avedon, and Irving Penn, he created portraits instantly recognizable for their clarity, elegance, and power. His images radiate style, strength, and glamour, yet are stripped down to essential authentic truths.

Herb photographed the icons of his time. The notorious, the edgy, the culturally significant, and in doing so, gave us a visual record of an era marked by both beauty and profound loss. He sought not just to portray but to reveal, coaxing from his subjects a vulnerability that could disarm and a power that could inspire.

Minimalist yet daring, classical yet subversive, his portraits carried both order and surprise. With confidence and trust, he drew out the essence of those he photographed. Herb had a talent for seeing a characteristic that was unique to the subject and made it a dominant feature in the portrait. To look at his work is to encounter honesty, sometimes reassuring, sometimes unsettling, always transformative.

Herb Ritts was not only a photographer but a crusader. He challenged stereotypes, confronted prejudice, and used his success to advance change. His generosity extended far beyond his art: he raised millions for charity, donated proceeds from photographs, and before his death founded the Herb Ritts Jr. Foundation, dedicated to supporting photography, the arts, and AIDS organizations.

With each image, Herb invited us to see differently—to question, to recalibrate, to discover beauty in unexpected places. His photographs are not only portraits of individuals, but testaments to a moment in history when art and activism intertwined, and when compassion became a radical, life-saving force.

One Gallery in West Hollywood, November 14 through December 21, 2025.

Address: 626 N Robertson Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

https://www.oneinstitute.org/

Kathleen’s Story

Kathleen’s Story

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Kathleen, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?

I grew up Irish Catholic as the daughter of a narcissistic and an alcoholic
Many years, so many bad decisions and 2 marriages later, I found myself living back with my parents at the age of 51.
My second husband was a raging heroin addict. I moved in with my parents to not only get away from that, but to help my mother take care of my father with Alzheimer’s.
During this time, I went back to school and became a licensed Esthetician.
I have a full time job as a food sales rep (have always been in the restaurant business – was a chef and caterer for many years)
I knew I had to do something more. Something different. I had recently started doing more spiritual work to start working on my traumas. I had dabbled in spirituality since I was 15 but always set it to the side until most recently. I wanted to heal – to be a healer, and, as an Esthetician I’m able to do that.
I’m working on myself and all of my traumas now and will continue to. My spiritual community and belief has been so eye opening, such an awakening. I want us all to feel the hope and beauty of the world.
I wanted to something different and natural for my clients, so I took my knowledge of recipes as a chef, and my new knowledge of essential oils and their healing properties, and I formed my own skincare line.
From there, I became a certified Reiki Healer and took my products up a notch – I add reiki energy into all of my products.
My ideas and dream is to heal women from the inside out. Through traumas, insecurities or whatever other ailment we have as women to feel bad about ourselves, I want to help heal all of us, one facial at a time. From soul to skin.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

The journey in my new business hasn’t been that long. I started it all 4 years ago when I went back to school. While I was working a full time job and taking care of my father with Alzheimers, I went to school at night. Five days a week. I would leave for school at 4:30 and get home by 10:00pm – then study for our weekly tests that included, mostly, biology.
I did this for ten months and graduated on time, first in my class.
I’m still working my full time job, but am hustling on the side to get my business running. I attend several women’s networking groups a month and get in front of as many people as possible. Whenever I have free time, I’m working on my business. When I’m not networking, I’m on social media, promoting.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Now. Currently.
I’ve been in the restaurant business for forty years. The last fifteen in the food sales end of it. That’s what I’ve known my entire life. It doesn’t fit into my life anymore. The stress and toxic environment of the business doesn’t align with me or my purpose. I’m searching for peace and harmony and remove myself from everything the food business and the toxicity of it brings to my life.

Up on the Roof

Up on the Roof

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Summertime in Southern California is a great time of the year to experience dining and drinking under the stars. According to a 2023 lifestyle ranking, Los Angeles had the most top-rated rooftop restaurants in the U.S., placing No. 3 in the overall count, just behind NYC and ahead of San Diego—even though San Diego scores higher in climate suitability. Ironically, outdoor dining in Southern California was surprisingly limited due to stringent permitting and bureaucracy. During COVID, it became essential, and many municipalities have since enacted reforms to make it a permanent, accessible feature of local dining culture. If you are seeing that young people that is because a 2025 OpenTable industry report shows that 62% of Gen Z diners prefer rooftop bars when dining outdoors, more than any other age group. Smart restaurants are amplifying this by showcasing rooftop views on social and naming their outdoor sections (e.g., “garden patio”) to create distinctive atmospheres.

Spire 73 – InterContinental, DTLA

Soaring 73 stories up, Spire 73 is the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere. Expect sweeping views, modern décor, and signature cocktails that make this spot a must for visitors and locals alike. Spire 73, located on the 73rd floor of the InterContinental in downtown L.A., is the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere, offering unparalleled views of the metro area.

Address: 900 Wilshire Blvd, 73rd floor, Los Angeles, CA 90017
Website: spire-73 (.restaurants-world.com or their official site via the InterContinental LA)
Link: https://spire-73.restaurants-world.com

Perch – Downtown LA

Perch is a French-inspired rooftop perched high above Pershing Square. With cozy fire pits, live jazz, and 360-degree views of the skyline, it’s perfect for date nights or group gatherings. Sip a classic cocktail while the city lights sparkle below.

Address: 448 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Website: perchla.com
Link: https://www.perchla.com

Takami Sushi & Robata

Takami Sushi & Robata is a sleek rooftop restaurant on the 21st floor in Downtown LA, serving modern Japanese dishes with panoramic city views. Right next door, Elevate Lounge transforms the space into a lively nightlife spot with DJs, cocktails, and an open-air terrace.

Address: 811 Wilshire Blvd, 21st Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90017

Website: https://www.takamisushi.com

Takami Sushi & Robata

Takami Sushi & Robata is a sleek rooftop restaurant on the 21st floor in Downtown LA, serving modern Japanese dishes with panoramic city views. Right next door, Elevate Lounge transforms the space into a lively nightlife spot with DJs, cocktails, and an open-air terrace.

Address: 811 Wilshire Blvd, 21st Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90017

Website: https://www.takamisushi.com

Bar Lis – Hollywood

Chic and stylish, Bar Lis channels the French Riviera with its pastel décor, lounge seating, and panoramic views of Hollywood. It’s upscale but relaxed, ideal for sipping spritzes late into the night.

Address: 1541 Wilcox Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028

https://www.barlisla.com

E.P. & L.P. – West Hollywood

This lively rooftop has become a WeHo staple. Expect colorful cocktails, DJ sets, and a buzzing social scene—especially at sunset. Pop-ups and themed activations keep things fresh year-round.

Address: 603 N La Cienega Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069

Website: eplosangeles.com

Phone: (310) 855-9955

Cara Cara

Perched atop the Downtown LA Proper Hotel, Cara Cara offers sweeping skyline views alongside a vibrant, seasonal California menu curated by James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanne Goin. The rooftop features lush landscaping, cozy alcoves, and a curated selection of organic wines and craft cocktails by sommelier Caroline Styne.

Address: 1100 S Broadway, Penthouse Level, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Phone: (213) 806-1027

Website: properhotel.com/downtown-la/restaurants-bars/cara-cara

Elephante – Santa Monica

Overlooking the Pacific, Elephante brings coastal Mediterranean vibes to Santa Monica. Expect wood-toned interiors, breezy outdoor seating, and a sunset backdrop that feels straight out of a vacation.

Address: 1332 2nd St, Rooftop, Santa Monica, CA 90401

 elephanterestaurants.com

Phone: (424) 320-2384

Rise Rooftop Lounge | Anaheim

Rise Rooftop Lounge is a chic rooftop bar located atop The Westin Anaheim Resort. It offers unobstructed views of Disney California Adventure® Park and the nightly Disneyland® fireworks. The lounge features a vibrant atmosphere with live entertainment on weekends, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

  • Address: 1030 W Katella Ave, Anaheim, CA 92802

  • Phone: (657) 279-9786

  • Website: rise-rooftop.com

Movies and the State of Hollywood

Movies and the State of Hollywood

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Ah, the movies. Once a staple in the entertainment arsenal, it has become an expensive proposition: In Los Angeles, the average cost of a standard movie ticket currently ranges from $18 to $20, depending on the theater and time of day. Premium formats like IMAX, Dolby Cinema, or 3D can push prices higher, often exceeding $22 for evening shows. Matinees and weekday showings may come in slightly lower, closer to $15–$17.

Concessions are where costs add up quickly. A regular soda typically runs between $5 and $7, while popcorn varies from $6 to $10, depending on size and add-ons like butter or seasoning. Candy generally starts around $4.

Combo deals are common but still pricey—a popcorn and drink combo can easily cost $15 to $20. Some theaters offer meal options or alcohol, which can increase your total even more.

Typical Total for One Person

If you’re headed to the movies in LA and plan to get refreshments, expect to spend about $28 to $35 per person for a standard night out.

Which brings us to look into the business of the movies: Moviegoing in Hollywood—and across the U.S.—is still in recovery mode. Despite the return of blockbuster titles and improved theatrical experiences, theater attendance remains significantly below pre-pandemic levels. While studios continue to release films on traditional Fridays, the size of the audience showing up has yet to fully bounce back.

The domestic box office is expected to reach around $9 billion in 2025. While that’s a step up from 2024, when revenue hovered just under $8.7 billion, it still trails the pre-COVID highs of $11 to $12 billion. Ticket sales tell a similar story: only 817.9 million tickets were sold in 2024—a steep drop from the 1.2 billion sold in 2019.

This lag has prompted major theater chains to rethink their strategies. AMC Theatres, the nation’s largest exhibitor, is pursuing a multi-year recovery plan. Along with investing in luxury seating and premium formats like IMAX and Dolby Cinema, AMC is making some key changes to the overall experience. One of the more surprising updates: shortening the time between the scheduled movie start and the actual film. Starting this year, AMC is trimming its famously long pre-show previews to a more manageable length, hoping to reduce viewer frustration and improve overall satisfaction.

In another move to boost attendance, AMC has introduced discounted tickets on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for loyalty members. These midweek deals aim to increase foot traffic during slower periods while offering more value to consumers wary of premium ticket prices.

Theaters are also leaning into event-based and immersive experiences. From advanced sound and visuals to live simulcasts of concerts and sporting events, cinemas are positioning themselves as more than just a place to watch movies. But even with these upgrades, audiences are still selective. A growing portion of viewers now wait for digital releases or choose at-home streaming, especially for mid-budget films or dramas.

The recovery is real—but slow. And while big titles are still capable of drawing crowds, the industry is adjusting to a new normal, where fewer people go to the movies, but those who do expect more for their time and money.

That said, Fridays have generally been the day that new movies are released. And so it is that we have opening today:

Freakier Friday revives the beloved body-swap comedy with a fresh twist. Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis return in a chaotic, high-energy sequel that expands the concept into a multigenerational tangle of swapped identities. It blends physical comedy with heartfelt family dynamics, capturing the same charm that made the original a classic while introducing younger characters and modern-day complications.

Weapons steps into much darker territory. This slow-burning horror-drama unfolds as a haunting mystery surrounding the disappearance of a child and the secrets that unravel in its wake. The film is both unsettling and emotional, pushing past typical genre conventions with layered characters and unpredictable twists. It’s less about jump scares and more about creeping dread and moral ambiguity.

The Bad Guys 2 continues the animated adventures of its quirky animal antiheroes, now trying to stay on the right side of the law while facing new global threats. Packed with action, clever dialogue, and flashy heist sequences, the sequel leans into its playful tone without losing the emotional beats that made the first film stand out. It’s fast, funny, and full of visual energy, aimed squarely at both kids and adults.

Pool Tide

Pool Tide

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One thing is for certain, the Southland has pools, lots of pools, public pools for  everyone. Here is a list of the best local places to take a dip.

 City of Los Angeles – Year‑Round Pools

  • Algin Sutton Pool – City of L.A. Aquatics
    (Other year‑round city pools can be found via the Citywide Aquatics directory on LAParks.org)

 Top‑Rated Public Pools

 Other Standout Pools in L.A.

 Beyond L.A. County

Hidden Gem: The Ford Theater

Hidden Gem: The Ford Theater

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The Los Angeles Times called The Boy and the Heron “Hayao Miyazaki at his most beautifully elegiac.” The story follows the young boy Mahito, who moves to the countryside after losing his mother in the war. There, a series of mysterious events lead him to a secluded and ancient tower, home to a mischievous gray heron, who beckons him into a fantastic world shared by the living and the dead. As he embarks on an epic journey with the heron as his guide, Mahito must uncover the secrets of this world, and the truth about himself.

Kim Eung Hwa and the Korean Dance Company have shared vibrant Korean art and culture for 45 years. Hangawi is a fall festival in Korea that celebrates family, harvest, and autumn, and this family-friendly program welcomes everyone from all backgrounds. From traditional drums with lively folk rhythms to the graceful fan dance or the captivating flower crown dance, Hangawi offers a chance for all to come together to celebrate the season and experience the richness of Korean culture.

As one of Los Angeles’ most vibrant advocates for preserving and championing Mexican culture, Grandeza Mexicana has spent more than 20 years advancing the art of folk ballet. The company’s trademarks are not only their stunning costumes and choreography, but their ability to “[pay] tribute to the traditions and customs of Mexico’s historic past, while honoring the promise of the future” (Noozhawk).

Since bursting onto the music scene in 2019, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram “has already made his mark as one of the best, and undoubtedly most exciting, blues guitarists in the world” (Guitar World). Compared to B.B. King, Jimi Hendrix, and Prince by Rolling Stone, Ingram’s jaw-dropping guitar playing and reach-out-and-grab-you-by-the-collar vocals have solidified him as the defining blues voice of his generation. “Ingram plays guitar with dramatic, searing tone and sure-handed authority. And that’s just in the studio,” said NPR Music—he’s even better live. To see the young singer-songwriter in person—performing fan favorites like “Out of This Town,” “Been Here Before,” and “662”—is to witness the creation of musical magic in real time.

Just up the road from the Hollywood Bowl, nestled in the Cahuenga Pass where satellite signals often flicker, sits a smaller, lesser-known venue: the John Anson Ford Theatre. With fewer than 1,200 seats, it’s an intimate counterpoint to the larger outdoor stages scattered across L.A., like the Greek Theatre and Levitt Pavilion in MacArthur Park.

The Ford Theatre has weathered more than a century of change. Its stage has hosted everything from religious pageants to punk rock shows, civic rallies to cultural festivals. Renovated but never reinvented, it remains one of Los Angeles’ most enduring and eclectic performance spaces—rooted in the landscape, alive with history.

A Stage Born from Drama

The Ford Theatre started life in 1920 as the Pilgrimage Theatre, built specifically to stage The Pilgrimage Play, a Christian pageant created by Christine Wetherill Stevenson. The original wooden structure burned down in 1929, but was rebuilt in 1931 using concrete and dressed in a design inspired by ancient Jerusalem. Architect William Lee Woollett gave it distinctive neo-Judaic features that remain striking to this day.

The play ran until 1964, when a court ruling forced it to close due to concerns about the separation of church and state. From there, the theatre began a gradual transformation.

From Sacred to Punk—and Back Again

In 1976, the venue was renamed after County Supervisor John Anson Ford, honoring his tireless work in support of the arts. It became a platform for local artists and organizations across disciplines—music, dance, theater, film, and more.

In the late ’80s, it took a hard left turn into punk and alternative rock. Bands like the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jane’s Addiction, and the Ramones brought new life to the hills. It was wild, loud, and unforgettable.

Then in 1993, with support from Supervisor Ed Edelman, “Summer Nights at the Ford” launched. The county opened the stage to community producers, supporting grassroots performing arts groups and spotlighting L.A.’s cultural diversity. Hundreds of local artists got a chance to perform on a world-class stage.

A Major Overhaul

Between 2013 and 2017, the Ford underwent a massive $80 million renovation. The seating was rebuilt, the stage was modernized, and sound and lighting systems were upgraded. Hillsides were stabilized, new terraces were added, and the whole space got a serious facelift—without losing its historic character.

In 2019, the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association took over operations, folding the Ford into its broader family alongside Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Hollywood Bowl. The pandemic delayed their first season, but since 2021, the Ford has thrived under LA Phil’s stewardship.

A Quiet Constant in Queer History

While not founded as an explicitly LGBTQ+ space, the Ford has historically embraced queer artists, audiences, and expression—especially through community-driven programming. During the 1990s and early 2000s, as the Ford leaned into diverse, independent, and often experimental performance, queer creators found a home on its stage. Drag, dance, spoken word, and avant-garde theater with LGBTQ+ themes were not just tolerated—they were welcomed.

Community Representation, Not Just Inclusion

The Ford’s partnership model—inviting artists and producers from underrepresented communities to curate their own shows—meant that queer stories came from within, not filtered through a mainstream lens. It wasn’t just “LGBTQ+ night”; it was a platform that routinely gave queer Latinx, Black, Asian American, and other voices room to be bold, funny, romantic, political, angry, and joyful.

Performers & Productions

Queer performers such as Justin Vivian Bond, Sandra Bernhard, John Fleck, and countless local drag artists, dancers, and musicians have graced the Ford’s stage. The venue has also hosted LGBTQ+ themed productions, particularly around Pride month and queer film nights in collaboration with Outfest and local arts organizations.

In 2023, A Night of Queer Joy—a multi-genre celebration of LGBTQ+ music and storytelling—was a standout. And in 2025, Andy Grammer, Perfume Genius, and Aly & AJ, all artists with significant LGBTQ+ fan bases and allies in queer advocacy, are set to perform.

Why It Matters

The Ford’s location—nestled in the hills between Hollywood and the Valley—has made it a literal and symbolic bridge between different parts of L.A.’s queer identity: from Silver Lake’s counterculture roots to West Hollywood’s nightlife scene, from immigrant queer communities to drag artists redefining performance.

It isn’t flashy, but it’s quietly revolutionary—an amphitheatre that programs queer art because it’s great art, not as a box to check.

The Season Ahead

The Ford’s 2025 season, running from July 18 through October 31, promises a typically eclectic lineup. Expect everything from experimental dance to global music, from outdoor film nights to family matinees. True to its roots, the Ford continues to spotlight underrepresented artists and unique cultural experiences you won’t find anywhere else in L.A.

 Ford Theatre 2025 Season Schedule

JULY

  • Fri, July 18 – The Pharcyde & Friends: 30th Anniversary of Labcabincalifornia

  • Sat, July 19 – Perritos World National Tour: Concrete, DoKnow & Jerry Garcia

  • Fri, July 25 – The Boy and the Heron (Studio Ghibli film)

  • Sat, July 26 – Howl’s Moving Castle

  • Sun, July 27 – The Wind Rises

AUGUST

  • Fri, August 1 – If I Awaken in Los Angeles (spoken word, music, dance)

  • Sat, August 2 – 9th Annual Boleros De Noche with La Marisoul, Los Hermanos Carlos & Bolero Soul

  • Thu, August 7 – An Evening with Leyendas del Mariachi

  • Sat, August 9 – The Improvised Shakespeare Company

  • Sun, August 10 – Andy Grammer

  • Sat, August 16 – Grandeza Mexicana Folk Ballet Company: Serenatas y Bodas de Mexico

  • Sat, August 23 – Lula Washington Dance Theatre – 45th Anniversary

  • Sun, August 24 – Element Band – 20th Anniversary

  • Mon, August 25 – Béla Fleck and The Flecktones

  • Sat, August 30 – Betty Who with Los Angeles Philharmonic

  • Sun, August 31 – Bajo La Luna: Silvia Pérez Cruz, La Muchacha & Y La Madrigal

SEPTEMBER

  • Fri, September 5 – Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band with Bobby Rush

  • Sat, September 6 – Flypoet Summer Classic

  • Tue, September 9 – Sofiane Pamart

  • Sat, September 13 – Noche de Cumbia: Sonido Gallo Negro & E Arenas

  • Thu, September 18 – JP Saxe

  • Fri, September 19 – Aly & AJ (Night 1)

  • Sat, September 20 – Aly & AJ (Night 2)

  • Fri, September 26 – Pino Palladino & Blake Mills

  • Sat, September 27 – Renée Elise Goldsberry

  • Sun, September 28 – Tributo a Los Grandes (Mariachi tribute show)

OCTOBER

  • Thu, October 2 – I’m With Her (Americana trio)

  • Fri, October 3 – Watchhouse

  • Sat, October 4 – Perfume Genius

  • Wed, October 8 – Ali Sethi

  • Sat, October 11 – Las Cafeteras

  • Thu, October 16 – Christone “Kingfish” Ingram

  • Fri, October 24 – Direct Address (theatre/arts event)

  • Sat, October 25 – Joe Bataan & Quetzal

  • Sun, October 26 – Rachael & Vilray

  • Thu, October 30 – Screening: Get Out

  • Fri, October 31 – Screening: Night of the Living Dead (Halloween special)

    Address 2580 Cahuenga Blvd East, Hollywood, CA 90068

     By Car

    From the 101 Freeway:

    • From Downtown L.A. or the Valley:
      Take US-101 (Hollywood Freeway) and exit at Cahuenga Blvd.
      Head north (from Hollywood) or south (from the Valley) onto Cahuenga Blvd East.
      The entrance to the Ford is on the east side of the freeway, near the Hollywood Bowl exit—follow signs.

    Parking Options:

    • On-site stacked parking: $10–$15

    • Free shuttle lots available on show nights—see below.

    🅿️ Shuttle & Park-and-Ride

    Free shuttles run for most events from Universal City Metro Station (Red Line) and off-site parking lots.
    Shuttles start 90 minutes before showtime and run continuously until 30 minutes after the show.

    Best Option:

    • Park at Universal City/Studio City Metro Station
      Address: 3901 Lankershim Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604
      Then take the Red Line or a free shuttle to the venue.

    By Metro

    Take the B Line (Red Line) to Universal City/Studio City Station or Hollywood/Highland Station.

    From Universal Station:

    • Walk or take the free shuttle to the Ford (about 10–15 minutes).

    From Hollywood/Highland Station:

    • It’s about a 20-minute uphill walk—not recommended unless you’re up for it.

    Walking Access

    There’s a pedestrian bridge connecting the east side parking/shuttle drop-off to the amphitheatre. Be prepared for stairs and hilly terrain—wear comfortable shoes.

From Mausoleums to Movies: The Story Behind Hollywood Forever’s Iconic Screenings & Concerts

From Mausoleums to Movies: The Story Behind Hollywood Forever’s Iconic Screenings & Concerts

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We tend to think of cemeteries as places of rest,— where we go when it’s over or to visit loved ones. Hollywood has its own place of rest— the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. But here’s the catch: this cemetery is host to a series of events such as movie watching, concerts and party events. We thought it might be time to take a deeper look into the movie screenings as summer has arrived as we now outdoor more than ever.

 A Resting Place for Legends

Founded in 1899, Hollywood Forever Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in Los Angeles, resting alongside Paramount Studios. This sacred ground is home to stars like Judy Garland, Douglas Fairbanks, Rudolph Valentino, and Dee Dee Ramone, among many others. Once a glamorous landmark, the cemetery suffered neglect and bankruptcy by the 1990s, its marble crumbling and koi ponds drained. That changed in 1998, when a pair of visionaries—Tyler Cassity and his brother Brent—bought the property with an idea that startled traditionalists and delighted culture lovers: turn the cemetery into a place for the living, too.

Enter Cinespia: Cult Classics Among the Headstones

In 2002, a young DJ and film aficionado named John Wyatt pitched a bold idea to Cassity: outdoor movie screenings on the cemetery’s Fairbanks Lawn. That first summer, Cinespia was born, kicking off with a screening of Strangers on a Train for a few hundred curious Angelenos. It was eerie. It was irreverent. And it worked.

Today, Cinespia screenings draw thousands with curated cult films, DJs spinning vinyl, food trucks, vintage photo booths, and a picnic-friendly vibe that’s become a summer ritual. Movies like The Big Lebowski, Clueless, and La La Land now grace the very mausoleum walls that once sheltered silver screen royalty.

 Rocking the Masonic Lodge

But movies weren’t enough. The Cassitys restored the Masonic Lodge, a stunning Spanish Revival building tucked into the grounds, transforming it into an intimate venue for live concerts, literary readings, and spoken word performances. Acts like Father John Misty, Karen O, Phoebe Bridgers, and even Finn Wolfhard have performed here in candlelit intimacy few LA venues can match.

 The Philosophy: A Living Cemetery

Cassity’s vision is not about disrespect, but reinvigorating reverence. In his words, “People don’t come here because they’re morbid. They come here because they want to remember—through culture, through experience.” Hollywood Forever doesn’t pretend death doesn’t exist—it invites us to commune with it creatively, communally.

 What It Means to LA

In a city obsessed with reinvention, Hollywood Forever is the rare space that allows nostalgia, innovation, and irreverence to coexist. It’s where memory becomes entertainment, and where every summer screening feels like a séance in celebration of the past.

So next time you’re there—blanket down, wine poured, classic movie rolling—remember that you’re part of an experiment in memory, magic, and the weird wonder of Los Angeles itself.

For more information: https://hollywoodforever.com/culture/

Jun 28 Casablanca 9 pm ~$30
Jul 4–5 Top Gun & La La Land + fireworks 9 pm ~$52
Jul 12 It 9 pm ~$30
Jul 19 Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion 9 pm ~$30
Jul 26 The Addams Family 9 pm ~$30

Tickets start at $29.99–30; parking adds $24–36

Long Beach Gay Pride

Long Beach Gay Pride

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The 42nd Annual Long Beach Pride Festival is in full swing today, Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Marina Green Park in Long Beach, California. Running from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, this year’s festival embraces the theme “The Power of Community,” celebrating the diversity and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.

🎉 Festival Highlights

  • Live Performances: Enjoy a dynamic lineup featuring artists such as HYM the Rapper, pop vocalist Tori Kay, Latinx group Mamboson, throwback band Radio Royalty, and alternative musician Tiancho. DJs like DJ BSelecta, DJ Icy Ice, and DJ 360 will keep the energy high, alongside performances by MegaWoof with go-go dancers.Signal Tribune+1Visit Long Beach+1

  • Themed Zones: Explore various festival zones, including the Pride Cantina, Secret Service stage, and a Ballroom Dance-off hosted by House of Long Beach. Visit Long Beach

  • Vendors and Exhibits: Browse over 150 arts and crafts vendors, enjoy diverse food and drink options, and participate in interactive experiences that showcase the rich culture of the LGBTQ+ community. Long Beach Pride™

🎟️ Tickets and Entry

  • Admission: Tickets are available for $25 at the entrances located at Shoreline Drive at Shoreline Village Drive and the Convention Center. Long Beach Pride™

  • Parade: Don’t miss the vibrant Long Beach Pride Parade tomorrow, Sunday, May 18, starting at 10:00 AM. The parade route begins at Ocean Boulevard and Lindero Avenue, proceeding along Ocean Boulevard and Alamitos Avenue in Downtown Long Beach. Attendance is free for all.

 

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