American Cinematheque’s film festival “Bleak Week: Cinema of Despair” will return for its fifth edition in Los Angeles from June 1st to 7th.
This year, American Cinematheque partnered with independent theaters, film organizations and filmmakers, including Sean Baker (“Anora”) and Mike Flanagan (“The Life of Chuck”).
The festival will be held at the Egyptian Theatre, Aero Theater and Los Feliz 3. The 2026 program will represent the largest expansion in Bleak Week history. Screenings will take place in approximately 100 theaters in the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, England, Scotland, Mexico, Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile.
Bleak Week: Films of Despair is an annual festival showcasing world cinema, focusing on films that “explore the darkest aspects of humanity and the darkest points of human history.” Each participating venue will screen its own carefully selected lineup of films.
“Particularly exciting for us is the opportunity to collaborate with programmers from around the world, as each venue curates its own lineup and speaks directly to its local audience,” said Chris Lemaire, director of programming at American Cinematheque. “We will see nearly 100 unique interpretations of the theme. In that sense, this global festival is not just a celebration of great cinema, but also a tribute to some of the greatest cinemas and the amazing programmers who work there.”
Pay-TV network Turner Classic Movies will screen a selection of films featured on past “Bleak Week” shows on May 31, ahead of the in-person festival.
For a complete list of participating venues and more information, please visit americancinematheque.com. Tickets will be sold at each participating venue.
