Bleak Week: Cinema of Despair

June 12–18

Presented in partnership with the American Cinematheque, "Bleak Week: Cinema of Despair” is an annual film festival showcasing some of the greatest works of cinema from across the globe that venture into the darkest sides of humanity and the bleakest points in human history.

The AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center joins the fifth annual edition in June 2026 as the festival expands to nearly 100 theaters across the U.S., Canada, UK and South and Central America, with each venue presenting its own original curated lineup of uncompromising films defined by unpleasant truths and raw empathy.

AFI Silver’s original curated lineup will be announced in early April.

Presented in partnership with the American Cinematheque.