As we wrote in our recent L.A. Weekly cover story about tattoo culture, it has survived fashion trends, TV portrayals and changing tastes because of the tradition, meaning and self-expression that inspired it to begin with, and still does. Tattoo Uprising, a new doc about the art form screening in L.A. this week before hitting on-demand streaming, seeks to reveal the historical roots behind this form of body art, providing an overview that covers how tattoos were used in early Christian practices, how they were discovered during the voyages of Captain James Cook, and how they soared  in popularity in America thanks to artists like Ed Hardy and Sailor Jerry. The film — like our piece — shows how tattooing in the last five-plus decades has transcended stereotypes to become a respected reflection of culture that conveys who we are — for life.

Arena Cinelounge, 6464 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood; Sun., Nov. 17, 4:40 p.m.; $16. tattoouprising.com/screenings.html.

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