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.⁠ ⁠

A harrowing, yet powerful lineup of films defined by stark imagery, unimaginable tragedies, existential fear, nihilism and shocking acts of brutality, this series features the world’s leading filmmakers who wholly embrace a cinema of despair in pursuit of unpleasant truths and raw empathy.

Taking place in June, the fifth year will see the festival expand to nearly 100 theatres across the United States and Puerto Rico, Canada, England, Scotland, Mexico, Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile. Each venue will curate it’s own lineup of films.