In movie years great and mediocre, one thing remains true and fine about the Outfest, the Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Film Festival, which turns 24 this week: It’s an event that queer people make for themselves. Straights are welcome, but not necessary, which perhaps accounts for why the lobbies of the Directors Guild and other festival venues fairly hum with happiness. Here, no one has to worry about whether Mom and Dad will be able to handle seeing Jake kiss Heath, because Outfest movies — despite the crossover dreams of their makers — aren’t intended for multiplex heteros, but for the men and women and transgendered beauties who fill Outfest’s theaters, and for their brethren. Outfest, in a sense, says to the larger world: “We want you to see and understand and enjoy these films we’ve made about our lives, but if you don’t come, we’ll survive, and even prosper. For these 12 days, we look to, and look after,... More >>>