About Cinema Series
Southern California’s longest-running public program of new film screenings for the past 32 years.
2026 Fall Cinema Series
The Fall Cinema Series returns to the Landmark Westwood Theatre on October 6 for six screenings of new films.
October 6, 13, 20, 27, November 10, 17 (Dark November 3 Election Day). Screenings are Tuesdays at 6:30 PM.
The series includes a screening of PAPER TIGER from Neon, featuring a Q&A with writer/director James Gray.
Movies have been a feature of public television in Southern California since KCET began broadcasting from Hollywood in the early 1960s. Today, we offer a variety of film programming on-air, online and in person. They include Must See Movies, Fine Cut, and the in-person Cinema Series.
Since its inception in 1994, the Cinema Series welcomes movie fans to enjoy preview screenings of the best of Hollywood, independent and festival films prior to their release in theaters or streaming.
Each screening is followed by intimate conversations with the film's director, actors or other special guests. Both experiences below are hosted by nationally recognized film critic Pete Hammond.
The Cinema Series at Landmark Westwood
The Cinema Series is held at the Landmark Westwood, located near the UCLA campus. The 200-seat theater is an ADA-compliant facility with a single screen, state-of-the-art digital projection, Dolby ATMOS Sound, a concession and bar area, and more. Parking is available in nearby public lots and surrounding streets.
Virtual Cinema Series
At special times throughout the year, the virtual Cinema Series presents preview screenings and conversations with filmmakers for audiences anywhere.
Great New Films
The Cinema Series is recognized for offering award-winning and emerging filmmakers the opportunity to preview their new work outside of an industry or festival environment. This opportunity for Hollywood, independent and foreign filmmakers has also served to extend our commitment to arts & culture programming in the community.
Films and in-person special guests at the screenings have included:
- “Pressure,” with Andrew Scott, Brendan Fraser, director/writer Anthony Maras
- “Fantasy Life,” with actor Amanda Peet
- “Jay Kelly,” with filmmaker Noah Baumbach, George Clooney
- “The Life of Chuck,” with award-winning actor Chiwetel Ejiofor
- “The Last Showgirl,” with Pamela Anderson, director Gia Coppola