the pride
⚫
10.01.2023 – 10.31.2023 October 2025 September 2026
WWW.THEPRIDELA.COM
LOS ANGELES 1
THE LOS ANGELES LGBT NEWSPAPER
Singer D4vd enters notCharged guilty plea with a West Hollywood Man With Killing Burbank Mayor Faces Backlash Over Playful public defender Tesla trunk dismemberment Dog, Burglary ofinFormer Roommate’s Video, Cites Critics Anti-LGBTQ+ BiasHome murder case Mayor Konstantine Anthony Defends Actions Amid Controversy Over Video
By Dolores Quintana Burbank Mayor Konstantine Anthony is facing criticism from conservatives following the circulation of a video showing him being spanked by a drag queen during an event on the weekend of September 10. Anthony has responded that some of his critics are motivated by anti-LGBTQ+ bias and that the incident was harmless. In the video, posted the Wisenuts Prosecutors have by filed multiplepodcast, felony Mayor Anthony seen beingman spanked by charges against ais27-year-old accused aofdrag artist, backed by the Village People’s breaking into his former roommate’s “Macho Hollywood Man.” Anthonyapartment, described thekilling events West defenders in todamaging represent as Public “shenanigans” andstepped emphasized that it was the victim’s small dog, and
27-Year-Old Suspect Faces Animal Cruelty Defense attorneys and Burglary Charges withdrew fromAttack After a Violent
representing David Anthony Burke.
recordingduring artist D4vd on Monday after his property the incident. private legal counsel Anmol Bhatia faces abruptly one countwithdrew each of ahead of his arraignment on murder and first-degree residential burglary, felony animal cruelty, and vandalism involving more than $400 in damage. Prosecutors have also alleged that the victim, who is at least 65 years old, was particularly
all in good fun. He went on to reveal that a secretly recorded video was made during the event and subsequently shared with a prominent hate group. In a post on his Instagram account, Anthony stated, “For several days, extremist right-wing organizations, including Fox News, have spread misleading information to fuel fear, discrimination, and hate. I will always be a proud supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and drag performers.” He added, “On a busy Saturday filled with various independent gatherings, I attended the Santa Clarita Valley Democrats’ private fundraiser for their organization. Notably, there were no officially endorsed candidates or state and federal political figures present. The event was open to young adults ages 15 and above. However, there were no attendees below 18. Additionally, no children were present.” While not specifying the particular hate group in question, it Bhatia is possible that Anthony vulnerable and that knew should human mutilation charges in Los or Angeles. was referring to at thetheTwitter now have known this time ofaccount, the crime. The as 21-year-old musician, whose which legal known X, called “Libs of TikTok,” The attack occurred around 11:30 p.m.
name is David 4, Anthony Burke, entered on September when Bhatia allegedlya not guilty plea in downtown Los Angeles forced his way into the apartment. Superior Courtsaid to a video multi-count indictment Investigators evidence shows him violently slamming the dog to the ground, stomping on it, and then throwing the lifeless animal off a balcony onto a nearby construction site, where it was
reposted the video and garnered over 8 million views. In response to the video, the Libs of TikTok account claimed that children were present at the event. Mayor Anthony disputed this assertion, stating that “actually, there weren’t any children at this private 21+ event. But of course, lying is totally on brand for you.” While the account correctly pointed out that individuals aged 15 and older were permitted to attend, the organizer, the Santa stemming fromevent’s the death of 14-year-old Clarita Valley Democrats, released a statement Celeste Rivas Hernandez. High-profile clarifyingattorneys that no individuals the age of defense Blair Berkunder and Marilynne 18 were in attendance. Bednarski were granted permission to drop MayorasAnthony point during Burke a clientreiterated after hethis informed the a City he Council meeting and expressed his court was indigent. Public defender concern Kandeel that the video’s circulation had led to Walid assumed representation city officials receiving of themotion most vile after the judge denied“some a defense to hate speech that I have ever seen.” delay the plea. Anthony encouraged those with concerns Police discovered Hernandez's about his actions to communicate dismembered remains inside the with trunkhim of directly Tesla via email at kanthony@burbankca. Burke's last year. gov. He stated, “IfAuthorities youBurke want tostabbed talkaccuse to the me Prosecutors allege later found dead. also about what happened over the weekend, teenager prevent her from exposing an Bhatia oftovandalizing property insidesend the me an before email. Send me an email. Ithat will began talk to unlawful sexual relationship home fleeing.
when she was 13. The Los arrested Angeles County Beverly Hills police Bhatia District Attorney's Office filed specialon September 21 following a two-week circumstance allegations, including murder search. He was arraigned on Tuesday at the Airport Courthouse and entered a not guilty plea. Bail was set at $175,000, and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for
youa about it. There is no reason to involve all of witness and murder for financial gain, of the other people who were not at a public making the defendant eligible for the death event, not a government-sponsored event. It penalty if at convicted. wasn’t even in the city of Burbank.” Legal representatives for the victim's In a statement released Burke's on Tuesday, family publicly challenged claimthe of Santa Clarita Valley Democrats voiced their indigency, pointing to preliminary hearing support forindicating Mayor Anthony strongly testimony the singerand transferred denounced the sensationalized and inaccurate assets to his mother, and manager to shield portrayal theirpotential event forcivil political purposes his estateof from litigation. that fear,last homophobia, A promoted judge ruled month thattransphobia, sufficient and bigotry. ThetoDemocrats their evidence exists proceed toreaffirmed trial on counts including first-degree murder, sexual commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and October 9. abuse of a minor under and unlawful drag performers, refusing to14, engage with what If convicted on all counts, Bhatia could mutilation oftohuman remains. they referred asyears “fake outrage.” face up to seven and eight months in Burke remains held without bail and is state prison. scheduled returnhandled for an Oct. status The caseto is being by the19Animal conference ahead ofoftrial Cruelty Section theproceedings. Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and remains under investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, West Hollywood Station.
Bomb Threat Temporarily Halts “Lil Nas Santa Monica Boulevard resurfacing moves X: Montero” Premiere wraps at TIFF intoLong final Live phases as West Hollywood
Hall, where the documentary was setSeek A spokespersonPossible for the Toronto police security swept the scene and cleared it within WeHo LASD Detectives Additional World Premiere of Thomson to be screened. Eastside paving informed CTV News Toronto that the threat 20 minutes,” noted Constable Victor Kwong. Lung stated, “Our standard security had been conveyed to the festival’s private Toronto police also clarified that the threat repaving along theineastern stretchthis of Santa road surface. Victims After Indecent Exposure Arrest Documentary Was measures remained place during time, Drivers face “OutField of anteams abundance Monica Boulevard.commenced with a slight security Sept. by 1–2a passerby. (Daytime): will had a general nature and did not specifically and the screening of caution,site the Toronto police and the restore private target any individual or entity. with an incident that occurred on Sept. The ongoing West Hollywood street execute survey work and delay. To our knowledge, this was a general Sheriffs SayAfter a Man Screened upcoming daytime 19, 2025. Investigators rehabilitation project will said now Harrington shift focus permanent roadway markers. threat and not directed at the film or the artist.” allegedly approached a woman to remaining construction zones oninside Dohenya Sept. 3 (Nighttime): Workers will Was Arrested After 20-Minute Delay survey closures, BACKloops OR UNFILES laundry exposed himselfthrough before install underground traffic-detection Road androom Santaand Monica Boulevard
Allegedly Exposing Himself to a Woman
night striping, and By Dolores Quintana utility work on Doheny and Santa Monica.
The premiere of “Lil Nas X: Long Live Detectives withToronto the LosInternational Angeles County Montero” at the Film Sheriff’s Department West Festival (TIFF) faced a momentaryHollywood setback on Station are asking the public’s Saturday night due tofor a bomb threat. help in identifying Judy Lung,additional TIFF’s Vicevictims Presidentfollowing of Public the arrest a man accused confirmed of indecent Affairs andofCommunications, to exposure. Roadway improvements across West CTV News Toronto via a written statement Jackie Harrington taken into that the festival alertedwas to an investigation Hollywood arewas entering their final stages “in the vicinity the2025, red carpet” at Roy custody on the Sept.ofcompletion 28, in of connection following asphalt
leaving the area. No further confrontation early September. was reported. Crews working along Doheny Road, Authorities believe other between Sierra Alta there Way may andbeSunset victims who have yet comeup forward. Boulevard, are not wrapping surface Anyoneand withdaytime information about this case grinding paving operations is urged to contact West Hollywood Station this week. Detectives at 310-855-8850. Tips may also Work along Santa Monica Boulevard, be submitted anonymously Crime from North Gardner Street tothrough North Detroit Stoppers by proceed calling 800-222-TIPS (8477), Street, will under the following using the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or visiting schedule: lacrimestoppers.org. Aug. 28 (Nighttime): Crews are adjusting The covers investigation utility to alignremains with theongoing. newly paved
beneath the pavement. Sept. 8 (Nighttime): Crews will complete final lane striping following the Labor Day holiday weekend. ALL FORMS • ALL TYPES • ALL STATES Department of Public Works officials noted that advance notices have been SAMUEL B. MOSES, CPA issued to adjacent businesses and residents Questions regarding construction along both project corridors. schedules or traffic impacts may be Motorists navigating active construction directed to City Engineer John zones should anticipate Blvd., localized lane1753 • Santa Monica 90401 Gilmour 100 Wilshire Suite reductions, traffic control measures, and at jgilmour@weho.org or by calling 323temporary street parking restrictions. 848-6383.
TAXES?
(310) 395-9922
2
09.01.2026 – 09.30.2026
LOS ANGELES IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY® This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY® and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.
(bik-TAR-vee)
MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY
BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including: � Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV). Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine.
BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including: � Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section. � Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that may have been hidden in your body. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY. � Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY. � Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat. � Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain. � The most common side effects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%). These are not all the possible side effects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.
ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who have received HIV medicines in the past, or to replace their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains: � dofetilide � rifampin � any other medicines to treat HIV-1
BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY Tell your healthcare provider if you: � Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis. � Have any other health problems. � Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY. � Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks of breastfeeding during treatment with BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take: � Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-thecounter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist. � BIKTARVY and other medicines may affect each other. Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.
HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.
GET MORE INFORMATION � This is only a brief summary of important information
about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more. � Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5. � If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.
BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, BELIEVE IT. Be it., GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. © 2026 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. US-BVYC-1037 05/26
09.01.2026 – 09.30.2026
LOS ANGELES 3
People featured are compensated by Gilead.
Phil
Taking BIKTARVY® since 2018 still undetectable*
HIV doesn’t have to change who you are or your plans
BIKTARVY® is a treatment studied with you in mind across:
9 clinical trials over 3600 participants BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you
READY TO STAY ON TRACK WITH BIKTARVY? SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT BIKTARVY.COM *Undetectable means the amount of virus in your blood is so low it cannot be measured by a lab test.
Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important warnings, on the previous page and at BIKTARVY.com.
4
09.01.2026 – 09.30.2026
LOS ANGELES
Famous West Hollywood runaway pig adopted by Oscar-nominated songwriter Diane Warren The animal nicknamed Wilbur won hearts after leading a street chase near Fairfax Avenue.
Grammy-winning songwriter Diane Warren secured the winning bid Thursday to adopt the viral piglet that led residents on a chaotic chase through the streets of West Hollywood over the weekend. The 17-pound animal, affectionately dubbed Wilbur by fans, gained internet fame after TikTok videos from @ themedicalmiracle, aka Jamaal Harrison, surfaced showing the 11-week-old pig sprinting along traffic lanes near Fairfax Avenue and dodging bystanders attempting to capture it. Los Angeles Animal Services held a silent auction at its West Los Angeles shelter after no original owner came forward to claim the animal, ensuring
a neutral selection process among multiple interested parties. A representative for Warren attended the auction on her behalf and submitted the winning bid to transfer the pig to Mousebutt Rescue Ranch, the songwriter's seven-acre sanctuary. This rescue marks the latest in a series of high-profile animal interventions for the Oscar-nominated music maker. Warren previously intervened in 2021 to secure sanctuary placement for a cow that evaded capture following a mass escape from a Pico Rivera meat processing facility. Wilbur will now relocate permanently to Warren’s private ranch following medical clearance from West Los Angeles shelter staff.
West Hollywood leaders demand ICE release detained resident facing deportation to Guyana Federal authorities temporarily blocked the removal of Alex Pereira-Alves
By Carlos Reyes. Federal immigration authorities are facing sharp condemnation from West Hollywood officials following the detention of a resident currently fighting deportation to a South American nation he has never visited. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents took Brazilian native Alex Pereira-Alves into custody last week, transferring him to the Adelanto ICE Processing Center. Federal officials initially sought to remove Pereira-Alves to Guyana, a country where he holds no personal or familial ties, before a federal judge issued a temporary stay halting the order. City leaders raised immediate concerns regarding human rights and safety, pointing to documented patterns of anti-LGBTQ+ violence and discrimination in Guyana. In response to the enforcement action, municipal representatives contacted U.S. Rep. Laura Friedman alongside California U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff, requesting immediate federal intervention
to ensure full due process considerations. City officials noted that municipal service contracts remain active to provide legal representation, housing aid, and emergency support for families affected
by federal enforcement actions. West Hollywood staff is working through personal networks to connect Alex PereiraAlves with dedicated legal resources. Information on immigrant rights and
emergency assistance programs is available on West Hollywood’s Know Your Rights page and at the Los Angeles County Office of Immigrant Affairs at oia.lacounty.gov.
09.01.2026 – 09.30.2026
LOS ANGELES 5
LESS BOBBLE, MORE BUZZ LESS BOBBLE, MORE BUZZ The 2026 CB750 Hornet with Honda E-Clutch
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BE A RESPONSIBLE RIDER. Remember, always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing whenever you ride. Never ride after consuming drugs or alcohol, and never use the street as a racetrack. Inspect your motorcycle before riding and read your owner’s manual. Obey the law, use common sense, respect the rights of others when you ride, and make sure you have a proper license when riding on public roads. Operating your motorcycle with a modified engine, emissions-control system or noise-control system may be illegal. For more information, visit powersports.honda.com. CB® is a registered trademark of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ©2026 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (01/26)
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P002313 CB750 Dealer Material 7.625” x 5.25” BE A RESPONSIBLE RIDER. Remember, always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing whenever you ride. Never ride after consuming drugs or alcohol, and never use the street as a racetrack. Inspect your motorcycle before riding and read your owner’s manual. Obey the law, use common sense, respect the rights of others when you ride, and make sure you have a proper license MODEL: CB750 when riding on public roads. Operating your motorcycle with a modified engine, emissions-control system or noise-control system may be illegal. For more information, visit powersports.honda.com. Category: Standard CB is a registered trademarkSport of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ©2026 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (01/26) ®
MINIMOTO, MAJOR VIBES
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BE A RESPONSIBLE RIDER. Remember, always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing whenever you ride. Never ride after consuming drugs or alcohol, and never use the street as a racetrack. Inspect your motorcycle before riding and read your owner’s manual. Obey the law, use common sense, respect the rights of others when you ride, and make sure you have a proper license when riding on public roads. Operating your motorcycle with a modified engine, emissions-control system or noise-control system may be illegal. For more information, visit powersports.honda.com. Dax®, Monkey®, and Trail125® are registered trademarks of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ©2026 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (2/26)
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BE A RESPONSIBLE RIDER. Remember, always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing whenever you ride. Never ride after consuming drugs or alcohol, and never use the street as a racetrack. Inspect your motorcycle before riding and read your owner’s manual. Obey the law, use common sense, respect the rights of others when you ride, and make sure you have a proper license when riding on public roads. Operating your motorcycle with a modified engine, emissions-control system or noise-control system may be illegal. For more information, visit powersports.honda.com. Dax®, Monkey®, and Trail125® are registered trademarks of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ©2026 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (2/26)
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6
09.01.2026 – 09.30.2026
LOS ANGELES
Overseas investor buys Kimpton La Peer West Hollywood for $63 million Japanese hospitality company acquires West Hollywood hotel. Tokyo-based hospitality company APA Group has acquired a 105-room boutique hotel in Southern California for $63 million, marking its latest effort to scale up its luxury real estate footprint across the United States, as reported by Bisnow. San Francisco investment firm KHP Capital Partners completed the sale of the Kimpton La Peer West Hollywood through commercial brokerage firm Newmark, with the transaction valued at roughly $600,000 per key. The buyer, a family-operated entity that has previously partnered with the Kimpton brand on international projects, is working to double its American portfolio to 10,000 guest rooms by 2030. The acquisition reflects a strategic shift toward high-end hospitality offerings abroad, pivoting away from the compact, budget-focused room layouts that define its domestic properties in Japan. The purchase adds to a flurry of high-
profile hospitality transactions across the local market. In June, billionaire investors Simon and David Reuben acquired the debt
on the nearby West Hollywood Edition on the Sunset Strip, taking over the property after acquiring $211 million in unpaid
liabilities from JPMorgan and Mack Real Estate Credit Strategies, as reported by The Real Deal.
09.01.2026 – 09.30.2026
LOS ANGELES 7
Alpine Floor and Home: A Family Flooring Legacy Serving the Westside Since 1968 Founded in 1968, Alpine Floor and Home has proudly served the Westside of Los Angeles for more than 58 years, earning a reputation as one of the area’s most trusted and established flooring companies. Built on quality craftsmanship, honest guidance, and long-standing customer relationships, Alpine Floor and Home continues to thrive as a proud family business. Johannes van Ierland, the owner of Alpine Floor and Home, has played a central role in guiding the company through decades of growth and change. His leadership, experience, and commitment to high standards have helped shape Alpine into the respected Westside institution it is today. While Johannes now works primarily in the back office, his presence and oversight ensure that the company’s core values remain firmly in place. Today, Alpine Floor and Home is led by a true father-and-son team. Jani van Ierland, Johannes’ son, runs all sales operations and serves as Vice President of Sales and Marketing. In this role, Jani oversees day-to-day sales, customer relationships, and marketing strategy. By combining modern design knowledge and forwardthinking sales practices with the traditions of a family-run business, Jani continues to
build on the company’s strong foundation. For over five decades, Alpine Floor and Home has served homeowners, designers, builders, and commercial clients throughout the Westside of Los Angeles. The company is known for offering the largest inventory of carpet, wood, laminate, and luxury vinyl tile, providing customers with unmatched selection in styles, colors, and price ranges. In addition to traditional flooring, Alpine Floor and Home also specializes in concrete refinishing, offering durable and contemporary solutions for residential and commercial spaces. A point of pride that truly sets Alpine Floor and Home apart is its installation team. All installers are full-time employees on payroll—never subcontractors. Many members of Alpine’s installation crews have been with the company for more than 20 years, bringing unmatched experience, consistency, and accountability to every job. This long-tenured team ensures highquality workmanship, reliable scheduling, and peace of mind for customers from start to finish. At its heart, Alpine Floor and Home remains a family-owned and operated business. Many customers are long-time and multi-generation clients, a testament to
the trust and relationships built since 1968. Personalized service, attention to detail, and integrity continue to define every project, large or small. As Alpine Floor and Home looks toward the future, its mission remains unchanged: to provide exceptional products, expert guidance, and dependable service to the
Westside community. Or, as the company’s long-standing slogan proudly says, “Let us floor you.” Alpine Floor and Home 3961 S. Sepulveda Blvd 310-390-7639 alpinecarpetoneculvercity.com
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8
09.01.2026 – 09.30.2026
LOS ANGELES
Film Review: Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma Hearts throb and fountains of blood gush as love and creativity merge. By Dolores Quintana Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma is magical bloodletting. Of course, the blood and the gore from the killer's weapon penetrating the victims' bodies is part of that, but it is also a scenario of emotional and spiritual carnage. Living with the danger of riding the highs and lows of emotions and not being able to put an intellectual distance between you and your own life. Get your tickets, because this film is really something that is beautifully alive. This might be the most emotional film of writer and director Jane Schoenbrun's burgeoning career, which explores the connection, made visceral through filmmaking and slasher horror films, between sex, death, and transcendence. Schoenbrun, as the writer/director, and Hannah Einbender, Gillian Anderson, Jack Haven, Amanda Fix, Arthur Conti, Eva Victor, Zach Cherry, Sarah Sherman, Patrick Fischler, Dylan Baker, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Quintessa Swindell, and Kevin McDonald as the cast bring a delicate gentleness and an abstract sense of humor to the weighty topics. One might be tempted to call it "meta", but as one character screams at the screen, “IT'S NOT META," and I agree, it is far too personal and obviously connected to heart tissue. The killer in this double slasher movie is Little Death, which is the English translation of the French concept of le petit mort, which has more than one meaning: a general loss of consciousness, a feeling that part of you, as a person, has died perhaps from a distressing event, or an orgasm so powerful that it causes you to separate from your body. Little Death’s costume design, which admittedly looks cool no matter what you think it means, seems to me to be more than an air duct. The key is looking at the mask when it is turned with the point of the corner pointing upwards. On my second viewing, I saw the female genitalia, specifically the part that many men seem to have a lot of trouble, er, “finding.” The killer’s weapon, well, slasher horror villain’s weapons don’t get much more phallic. Schoenbrun is obviously a horror movie fan and knows its legends and rules very well. The director’s drive is drenched in horror filmmaking with split diopters, colored gels, and POV shots of the killer, complete with heavy breathing. There is even a blurring of fantasy and reality with painted backdrops as scenery at Camp Miasma. It is gorgeous and dreamlike; the further
that Hannah Einbender’s character, Kris Williams, the Sundance-feted wunderkind director that executives have tapped to revive the “zombie IP’ of the Camp Miasma films, moves into the character Billy Presley, played by Gillian Anderson, winterized perpetual summer camp world. Many critics who have opined about the deeper meanings of slasher films tend to assume that the murders of the young women and men who have sex are puritan punishments for transgressing against the concepts of virginity and moral rectitude. Schoenberg offers an alternate theory: that it is not having sex that marks you for death by a slasher psychopath, but having impure motives for having sex. Love matters; careless lust and the lack of human warmth are the real problems. This idea dovetails into the film’s examination of creativity. Human creativity has a fount that not everyone knows about, but the most successful artists have no problem accessing. In my time as an entertainment journalist, I have chased the source of the creative urge. Schoenbrun likens it to the purity of motive and the ability to create with your entire self. Not as an intellectual exercise, but as a reality of “flesh and fluids,” where one lets go of everything that holds them back and connects the body and the brain. It is creativity and sexual pleasure/true love as the twin founts of happiness and satisfaction of the soul. Hannah Einbinder and Gillian Anderson have a warm chemistry and vulnerability that makes the core of the movie most believable; Jack Haven brings their open wounds to a killer who is an agent of death and justice. Amanda Fix, as the young Billy, is remarkable in a mostly wordless role that throbs with an existential ache. Eva Victor, Sarah Sherman, Kevin McDonald, director Louise Weard, and the rest of the cast, including Aren Buchholz as Thor, whom Schoenberg makes mirth with by putting a photo of “Thor” onscreen for a brief moment, seem to be working in a parallel absurdist comedy that only complements the story of Billy and Kris. Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma
is a beautiful, bloody dream of love and a fanciful fantasy of female filmmaking and creativity. It has ridiculous fountains of gore, the obsessions of nerds, and a woman’s search for true romance via scary movies.
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09.01.2026 – 09.30.2026
LOS ANGELES
Perez Hilton’s family issues update following platform delay in TikTok self-harm mental crisis Relatives report blogger is communicating in hospital while requesting privacy for children evacuated during the incident. The family of Perez Hilton released a statement asking for privacy and confirming the celebrity blogger is communicating with relatives following a mental health crisis broadcast live on TikTok on Tuesday night. Emergency responders transported Hilton, whose real name is Mario Lavandeira, to a Miami hospital after viewers alerted authorities to a self-harm incident during his livestream. Family members shared that children inside the residence were safely evacuated as the crisis unfolded. They urged media personnel, content creators, and paparazzi to leave the property immediately to allow the family space to heal.
"The events of the past several days have been nearly unbearable for our family… Our highest priority right now is helping the children begin to heal," the statement read, adding that future updates regarding Hilton’s recovery will be shared via his website as information is confirmed. The incident prompted intense public scrutiny over how long graphic broadcasts remain accessible on social media. A TikTok spokesperson stated that automated moderation systems flagged the broadcast within minutes, but a "moderator error" led to an unexpected delay in shutting down the stream. While the streaming service stated that the broadcast was shut down within 15 minutes, social media users who saw the broadcast reported it lasted around a half hour, with Hilton starting and stopping TikTok live broadcasts multiple times. One user said, “If TikTok said the live only lasted 15 minutes, that was 15 minutes too long.” TikTok reported that subsequent streams were terminated within 90 seconds, local law enforcement was notified, and Hilton’s account was permanently banned. Despite the account removal, secondary clips of the broadcast began circulating on other digital platforms, leading social media users to issue warnings advising others to
disable video autoplay features. Hilton, 48, rose to fame in the mid-2000s as a high-profile Hollywood commentary
blogger. His family stated they are taking recovery efforts one step at a time while focusing on his health.
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LOS ANGELES
09.01.2026 – 09.30.2026
Cinespia unveils October Halloween screening lineup at Hollywood Forever Cemetery
and candy treats from our Concessions The outdoor movie Stand, or gnosh on nachos, hot dogs, and freshly grilled burgers. Kiss off the haters series returns with with a pretty wicked portrait from our Free cult horror favorites, Photobooth. Friday, October 30th – Jennifer’s Body custom photo at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. a hottie sucks, especially if you're booths, and live DJ a Being succubus. Megan Fox is hungry for more than attention in Jennifer’s Body, sets.
By Sarah Lin.
Outdoor movie series Cinespia will launch its annual October horror lineup at Hollywood Forever Cemetery following the conclusion of its 25th anniversary summer season. Presented by Amazon MGM Studios and Prime Video, the traditional Halloween program features four evening events at the historic site. Cinespia’s descriptions of the movies and the events follow here: Saturday, October 3rd – Corpse Bride at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. This Halloween month, toast to happily ever hereafter. Here comes the bride... from six feet under. Tim Burton puts the romance back in necromance with Corpse Bride, a beautifully twisted love story where one misplaced wedding ring turns “I do” into “what have I done?” Join the dearly beloved under the stars for a reception worthy of the afterlife, with spirited DJ sets, drinks to wake the dead, and a free photo booth for your drop-dead gorgeous wedding portrait. Come in your matrimonial macabre best. The only grave misunderstanding is missing this event. Saturday, October 10th – Carrie at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. 50th Anniversary! School is cruel for sensitive student Sissy Spacek in one of the best horror films ever, period. Taunted by classmates, high schooler Carrie deals with it how she knows best: telekinetically. It’s fight and ignite when prom becomes a battleground between the tiffed teen and her bullies. Will Carrie have the romantic time of her life? You know she won’t, but at least she’ll have a blast. Have buckets of fun with DJ sets before and after the film. Pack a picnic with beer and wine, or let us provide the drinks. Enjoy popcorn
the blood-splattered, fiery cult classic where boys are on the menu, and best friendship gets seriously complicated. Don't be greedy; invite all your besties to Hollywood Forever Cemetery to kick off Halloween weekend. DJ sets will possess the dance floor. We're serving body (horror) on the big screen, and sizzling burgers at the concessions stand. Strike a pose in our free photo booth where looking hot enough to eat is highly encouraged. Talk about teenage sex and death! Saturday, October 31st – The Thing at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. This Halloween night, it’s morphin’ time! Trust no one, but invite everyone to Hollywood Forever Cemetery, where John Carpenter’s shape-shifting, stomachbursting masterpiece comes alive on All Hallows’ Eve. A shapeshifting alien is oozin’ for a bruisin’ when it overtakes a research site in Antarctica. Can a squad of scientists (including Kurt Russell) fight off madness and mayhem before the Thing overtakes them all? Come as you are, or as someone you’ve perfectly assimilated, for an epic Halloween party with DJ sets before and after the film. Leave the impostor syndrome at home: you’re the real thing in our Free Photobooth. Each event includes pre- and post-movie sets from guest DJs, themed photo booths, the best place to take photos of you and your friends' great costumes, concession stands, and an on-site beer and wine bar. Organizers plan to announce additional 25th anniversary screening dates in the coming weeks. Tickets and schedule updates remain available on the official Cinespia Hollywood Forever Cemetery website.
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09.01.2026 – 09.30.2026
LOS ANGELES
West Hollywood restaurant First of All debuts dinner menu and custom cocktail program
The Santa Monica Boulevard spot transitions from daytime counter service to evening dining featuring modern Mexican dishes. By Sarah Lin.
West Hollywood dining spot First of All
West Hollywood has expanded beyond its daytime counter service with the launch of an evening dinner menu and full-service cocktail program. Owned by restaurateur Mike Fahim, who is the operator behind Beachwood Cafe, Sotta, and Sidewalk Grill, the restaurant at 8200 Santa Monica Blvd. draws heavy culinary inspiration from Mexico City. While the location continues to offer breakfast and lunch items such as chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, and eggs
Benedict, the new evening schedule shifts the venue into a traditional sit-down establishment. Executive Chef Arturo Quesada, an instructor at Los Angeles Harbor College who trained under Michelin-starred chef Martín Berasategui, created the dinner offerings. Drawing from his Mexican and Bolivian heritage, Quesada’s lineup includes ahi tuna tostadas, red snapper ceviche, charred mushroom mole, swordfish a la Veracruzana, and slow-
braised costillas de res. Bar director Ryan Holden created the beverage menu, which avoids artificial sweeteners and relies entirely on housemade syrups. Drinks include the Negroni Oaxaqueño, Maracuyá, and Café Negro, formulated specifically to pair with Quesada's dishes. Dinner and bar service runs Wednesday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
End of an Era: The Belmont permanently shuts its doors in West Hollywood after 20 years The neighborhood bar and frequent Vanderpump Rules filming location closed its doors at the end of August. By Dolores Quintana
The Belmont, a staple of West Hollywood nightlife, has closed after twenty years. The owner, Dylan Leong, stated in a social media post that the restaurant and bar would close on August 31. It was a favorite hangout of the original cast members of Vanderpump Rules, so much so that scenes from the bar were filmed for the series, including the infamous meeting of Ariana Madix and Tom Sandoval after the Scandoval news broke. The former space’s Instagram also has a clip from the new series, The Valley, of Tom Schwartz talking about how he met his “wife”, Katie Maloney, there, and then his awkward correction to Jason Caperna that Maloney is actually his ex-wife.
Many customers left farewell messages that spoke of the reputation the bar had as a beloved place where you could get really drunk and have a great time, which you might not remember so well. One said, “This sucks! So many hangovers were
created here!” Stassi Schroeder, formerly of VPR, commented on the post, saying, My heart is breaking! And we won’t be back in town to have one last hurrah. I’m SICK” Leong even said that everyone who
hated the bar was welcome to come by, and that seems to be the best way to show that The Belmont extended a welcome to everyone. Personally, I feel a bit sad because I never went, and it sounds like it was a party.
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LOS ANGELES
09.01.2026 – 09.30.2026