The LA Film Festival Kicks Off!

The LA Film Festival returns to Westwood tonight with the world premiere of Kasi Lemmons’ Talk to Me (not Talk To Me) at the Mann Village Theater. The film stars Don Cheadle and Chiwetel Ejiofor and tells the story of Ralph Green, an ex-drug addict and convicted felon who became one of Washington D.C.’s most prominent disc jockeys and community activisits in the 60s and 70s. A sure to be congested after-party follows the screening.

The festival really kicks into gear on Friday as the films and events start to roll. Various passes are available at the festival’s box office and individual tickets can still be bought for most screenings. There’s also plenty of free stuff to catch. The Festival Promenade on Broxton has an outdoor lounge with sofas and tables where you can relax between movies. Live music and free screenings of such favorites as The Princess Bride and A Christmas Story are also gratis. The Promenade will also host a Live Earth Day and a Family Day over the weekend.