“Flags of Our Fathers” Director Clint Eastwood DreamWorks Pictures (Out of 5) Six American soldiers struggle to hoist the heavy pole bearing an American flag. As the stars and stripes flutter in the breeze, the moment is immortalized as a snapshot that sends electric shocks of hope to a nation on the brink of despair. Read more...

Despite the implications of its name, the Lyon Opera Ballet’s performances are missing all of the standard ballet accoutrements. There are no princesses in tutus and tiaras, pirouettes in pointe shoes or a corps de ballet of swans. Read more...

“Driving Lessons” Director Jeremy Brock Sony Pictures Classics (Out of 5) The most important lesson we learn while growing up is arguably that, no matter how mature or experienced we may seem, we’ll always be learning lessons. Read more...

The people in Starbucks were twitching in their chairs. On Thursday, however, it was not because of their caffeine rush, but rather their anticipation as they eagerly awaited the appearance of novelist Mitch Albom in a Starbucks Book Break. Read more...

For every artist that breaks into the public eye, at least 10 are doomed to obscurity, despite having ample talent and a unique approach to music. Read more...

Bread and Porridge 2315 Wilshire Blvd. $10-$20 Brunch is the best meal of the day. It’s less pretentious than dinner, and it offers the selection of lunch. Read more...

With the fall quarter almost half through, only faint memories of wild summer nights remain. But two UCLA students have captured their all-night summer sessions on film ““ and it may soon find its way into theaters. Read more...