The Beverly Theater invites audiences to embrace the darkness as Bleak Week: Cinema of Despair takes over June 11–17. The globally recognized film series brings together some of the most haunting, unsettling, and emotionally raw films ever made, offering a cinematic deep dive into humanity’s most complex and shadowy moments.
From existential dread to moral unraveling, Bleak Week assembles an eclectic lineup of international and cult classics, including Barry Lyndon (1975), Deliverance (1972), Leaving Las Vegas (1995), and The Doom Generation (1995), alongside provocative works like Flesh for Frankenstein 3D (1973) and the visually arresting pairing of La Jetée (1962) and Toby Dammit (1968).
“Bleak Week isn’t just a film series, it’s a full emotional descent,” said Kip Kelly, CXO of The Beverly Theater. “These are films that challenge, unsettle, and stay with you long after the credits roll. It’s not always comfortable, but it’s unforgettable.”
Additional featured titles include All That Heaven Allows (1955), American Job (1996), Hard Eight (1996), Lady Snowblood (1973), Morvern Callar (2002), Queen of Diamonds (1991), and Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)—because even sweetness can turn a little strange under the right lens.
Festivalgoers can fully lean into the experience with an Existential Access Pass for $30, which grants entry to all screenings throughout the week. Individual tickets are $14, with $8 pricing available for B+ members.
Bleak Week: Cinema of Despair Schedule
June 11–14 All That Heaven Allows (1955)
June 11–16 La Jetée (1962) / Toby Dammit (1968)
June 12–16 Deliverance (1972)
June 12 Flesh for Frankenstein 3D (1973)
June 12 Queen of Diamonds (1991)
June 13–15 American Job (1996)
June 13–17 Hard Eight (1996)
June 13 Leaving Las Vegas (1995)
June 13–17 The Doom Generation (1995)
June 13–15 Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
June 14–17 Barry Lyndon (1975)
June 15–16 Lady Snowblood (1973)
June 16 Morvern Callar (2002)
