Jennifer Lopez is a good actor. From 1998’s Out of Sight to 2019’s Hustlers, Lopez has proven she can carry any film with casts large and small.

Vince Vaughn is also a good actor. From 1996’s Swingers to 2020’s Freaky, Vaughn has showcased comedic and dramatic chops.

That said, The Cell isn’t either lead’s best work, even within the thriller genre. But the film is still a highly enjoyable watch that’s better for its three leads.

Tarsem Singh’s directorial debut is one of the best-looking flicks from the early aughts. The costumes and special effects helped earn the movie Academy Award nominations but looking at the year 2000, Lopez and Vaughn are also part of the appeal today.

The Cell divided critics and made a good amount of money when it was first released, but it hasn’t been a staple of cable, nor has it earned cult status.

Now AFI is presenting the 25-year-old film as part of its Recent Restorations series. Screenings like this are a fine reminder that there’s visually interesting art carried by A-listers that most film lovers haven’t seen. See it on the big screen if you can.

Those who’ve attended an event at the Parks at Walter Reed over the past five years don’t want to let the secret out. There may be no better setting for a musical festival in D.C.

The stage is at the bottom of the city’s best sledding hill. It’s easy to access via public transit, parking isn’t an issue, there’s a Capital Bikeshare station a block away, and ample bike parking.

It’s low-key BYOB, and even if you’ve forgotten to BYOB, the folks from the fantastic Ivy & Coney and Midlands have a brand-new outdoor bar literally at the top of the hill. It’s the type of setting that’s so good you don’t need a good excuse to stop by.

But performances from go-go legends Backyard Band make this all-day, family-friendly event a no-brainer. Whether you’re a newbie to D.C.’s homegrown genre or steeped in go-go, you’ll have eight hours to celebrate and dance to the sound of Washington.

In addition to the aforementioned long-running Backyard Band, New Impressionz will usher in the next generation of the genre, Plunky & Oneness of JuJu are bringing Afro-funk jazz, Farafina Kan delivers West African drumming, and Imani-Grace Cooper kicks off the day with a tribute to the late, great once-local musician Roberta Flack. If you need a dose of D.C. hope and pride, here’s your invitation.