Happening Friday

MOVIES

Topanga Film Festival Now in its sixth year, the Topanga Film Festival is committed to bringing the best in independent and experimental filmmaking to its screens. Documentaries, short films, features and contributions from budding young directors will be screened — some under the stars — over four days. The main screening tent is at 120 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga, but there are other locations as well. Fri.-Sun. Times and prices vary. https://www.topangafilmfestival.com.

Ken Russell Known as one of England’s most provocative film directors, Russell has filmed numerous adaptations of classic novels, a rock opera, science fiction films, horror films and biopics of composers. Aero Theatre visitors will get a taste of Russell’s knack for horror at this surreal Friday evening, “Brave New Worlds: A Tribute to Ken Russell,” with the screening of “The Devils,” a 1971 film, and “Altered States,” from 1980. Russell will be there to discuss his work in between the double-feature screening. American Cinematheque at the Aero Theatre, 1328 Montana Ave., Santa Monica. 7:30 p.m. $11. https://www.americancinematheque.com

Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Child The titular painter and graffiti artist of Tamra Davis’ documentary “Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Child” continues to garner fascination and analysis. Getting its title from an article in Artforum that first brought the sprout-headed artist to the attention of the New York gallery scene, the film builds upon footage of an interview Basquiat did in 1985. Davis, a close friend of the artist, who died in 1988 of a heroin overdose, gives the documentary a deep, emotional core. Landmark Nuart Theatre, 11272 Santa Monica Blvd. (310) 281-8233. Opens Friday. https://www.landmarktheatres.com

EVENTS

Manhattan Beach Open Pack up the beach chairs and sunscreen and get ready for the Manhattan Beach Open, the granddaddy of beach volleyball tournaments. For 50 years, competitors have duked it out near the pier, competing for a coveted plaque on the Manhattan Beach Volleyball Walk of Fame. The Manhattan Beach Pier, 100 Manhattan Beach Blvd. 9 a.m. Fri.-Sun. Free for spectators. (310) 802-5448. https://www.cbva.com