Seventy Year ItchSeventy years in the making, the new PBS 10-part series ‘American Cinema’ examines the influence and history of Hollywood’s film industry and the film movements that have shaped American culture By Barbara Hernandez Daily Bruin Staff When people see movies today, they have no idea about the 70-plus years of creation involved ­ the big budget escapism of the Depression, the romantic comedies of the ’40s, the false America of the ’50s and the sense of disillusion of the ’60s and ’70s. Read more...

‘Staccato’ takes a look at backstage backstabbing Black comedy scrutinizes Hollywood, pleases audience at Tiffany Theater By Jennifer Richmond Daily Bruin Staff Backstabbing is a daily routine in Hollywood. Read more...

Murder was the case Kevin Bacon and Christian Slater come of age (again) in courtroom drama Murder In the First, a story of revenge and the fine line between justice and injustice By Michael Horowitz Daily Bruin Senior Staff Murder In the First stars two of Hollywood’s favorites, known more for wisecracking leading male roles than gritty realism. Read more...

Plays are half success, half failure at this season’s One Act Festival Theatre 40 adds memorable and forgettable at annual festival By Lawrence Sullivan Once again, Theatre 40’s Annual One-Act Festival is in season, now going on its sixth year. Read more...

‘S.F.W.’ lives up to name with futile attempt at Gen X trauma Angst-filled film explores world of instant celebrity By Michael Horowitz Daily Bruin Senior Staff S.F.W. Read more...

‘Social Security’ commands fiery performances Lightning-quick responses, retorts sustain satire in Bergman’s comedy of overbearing mother, in-laws By Jennifer Richmond Daily Bruin Staff The Kahns (Michael Daniel Vila and Susan Allenbach) have finally gotten to a point in their career where things are going smoothly. Read more...

‘Black Elk’ actions speak louder than words at Mark Taper Forum Play presents powerful affirmation of Native American identity, history By Lawrence Sullivan When theater speaks most forcefully, often the words spoken import the least. Read more...