For the last six years, the Filipino American Friendship Festival has commemorated the signing of the Treaty of Manila, an act that freed the Philippines from the U.S.'s colonial rule.

Thursday on Midday Edition, we talk about how the festival is commemorating 80 years of the Philippines' independence and uplifting stories about the Filipino community.

Then, director Christopher Nolan's adaptation of "The Odyssey" hits theaters this week. Our Midday Movie critics discuss Nolan's take on Homer's epic poem and their picks for other films based on mythology.

And finally, what else is going on this weekend? KPBS arts reporter Julia Dixon Evans shares her top event picks, from a video game concert to skateboard art.

Guests:

• JoAnn Fields, government and public relations director, API Initiative
• Noemi Dumpalin, producer, "Love All" documentary
• Beth Accomando, arts reporter, host of the "Cinema Junkie" podcast, KPBS
• Yazdi Pithavala, podcast host, "Moviewallas"
• Julia Dixon Evans, arts reporter, host of "The Finest" podcast, KPBS