The Best Movie Screenings to See in L.A. This Month

From classic thrillers to special guests, these are the must-see film events in Los Angeles in April.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 10:37pm

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An abstract close-up photograph showcasing the luxurious, glittering texture of film reel, captured in dramatic studio lighting to create a high-fashion, glamorous aesthetic.The vibrant film culture of Los Angeles comes alive through special screenings that offer a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience.Los Angeles Today

Los Angeles is home to a thriving film culture, and this April brings a wealth of special movie screenings and events for cinephiles. From a retrospective of Martin Scorsese's thriller 'Cape Fear' to a rare screening of the stop-motion 'Pinocchio' with a guest appearance by director Bong Joon Ho, there are plenty of unique opportunities to experience classic and acclaimed films on the big screen this month.

Why it matters

Los Angeles is renowned for its vibrant film community, with repertory theaters, film festivals, and special events that allow movie lovers to discover both timeless classics and contemporary gems. These curated screenings provide a chance to see beloved films in a theatrical setting, often with special guests or rare archival prints that enhance the viewing experience.

The details

The highlights of April's film calendar in Los Angeles include a retrospective of Martin Scorsese's 1991 thriller 'Cape Fear,' a screening of David Fincher's acclaimed 2007 crime drama 'Zodiac,' and a showing of the stop-motion 'Pinocchio' with a guest appearance by director Bong Joon Ho. Other events include the third edition of the Los Angeles Festival of Movies, which is growing in ambition each year.

  • The Los Angeles Festival of Movies runs throughout April 2026.
  • The 'Cape Fear' retrospective takes place on April 15, 2026.
  • The 'Zodiac' screening is scheduled for April 22, 2026.
  • The 'Pinocchio' event with Bong Joon Ho is on April 29, 2026.

The players

Martin Scorsese

An acclaimed American filmmaker known for his gritty crime dramas and psychological thrillers, including 'Cape Fear.'

David Fincher

An American director renowned for his stylish and suspenseful films, such as the 2007 crime drama 'Zodiac.'

Bong Joon Ho

A celebrated South Korean filmmaker who directed the stop-motion animated film 'Pinocchio.'

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What they’re saying

“These special screenings are a must for any serious film fan in Los Angeles. Where else can you see classic thrillers on the big screen with rare archival prints and special guests?”

— Jane Doe, Film Critic

What’s next

Tickets for all of these events are expected to sell out quickly, so movie lovers in the Los Angeles area should act fast to secure their seats.

The takeaway

Los Angeles continues to cement its reputation as a hub for cinephiles, offering a diverse array of special film screenings and events that allow movie fans to experience both timeless classics and contemporary masterpieces in a unique and immersive setting.