FILM—It’s not enough to just own the albums; you want to be a real killer bee, you gotta know the inspirations. The Hollywood’s Kung Fu Theater series presents a double dose of 35mm classic Wu Tang swordplay, with 1983’s Bastard Swordsman and 1976’s The Magic Blade. You can’t join the swarm if you don’t know the roots. Get educated. BOBBY ROBERTS
Hollywood Theatre, 4122 NE Sandy, Bastard Swordsman at 7:30 pm, The Magic Blade at 9:30 pm, $8
BOOKS—Mitchell S. Jackson’s autobiographical novel, The Residue Years, was selected by Multnomah County Library for this year’s Everybody Reads project—and no wonder, given it’s a look into poverty and race in Portland, written in sharp, lyrical prose. Jackson grew up here but now calls New York home; tonight’s a rare, worthwhile chance to see him in person. MEGAN BURBANK
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 SW Broadway, 7:30 pm, $15-65, all ages