Every large-scale event should have a tagline that fits the event's mission, outlook, and scope.
Some go a little too large -- i.e. "the World's Greatest/Biggest Event" -- but others are right on target.
Look to Outfest, which bears the tagline "Creating Change. One Story at a Time." That's just what the festival, which is devoted to spotlighting lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender cinema, has been doing for over three decades since it was founded at UCLA. How so? Every LGBT cinema showcase that's started in the last 32 years can count Outfest as an inspiration and model.
Lofty stuff, but the festival, which is on through Sunday, July 20, is also devoted to having a not-too-lofty, come-one-come-all good time. Parties before and after the screenings are standard, and lively panels, and plentiful hobnobbing opportunities. The DGA Atrium will see plenty of social action each night, including the All-Girl Friday bash on Friday, July 18 and a caboodle of pre-screening happenings on Saturday, July 19.
As for the screenings themselves? "Space Station 76" with Patrick Wilson, Liv Tyler, and Matt Bomer is the stylish closing night presentation at the Ford. There's a "The Wizard of Oz" sing-along at the Ford, too, on July 16.
"Helicopter Mom" with Nia Vardalos, "Lilting" with Ben Whishaw, and the 25th anniversary of "Longtime Companion" are three more highlights of a highlight-filled week. Oh, and the Docs @ 5, a fine chance to take in some fresh documentaries for five bucks.
Need the big grid? The venues, which run the gamut from the Director's Guild to the Orpheum and many spots in-between? Click here. And happy 32nd, Outfest: The tagline continues to fit.
