The end of October saw the 34th Philadelphia Film Festival take over the Philadelphia Film Society theaters for 11 days; with nearly 200 screenings, Q&As, surprise guests, parties, and many, many memorable films.
The fest’s record turnout proved that the film-going community in Philly is not slowing down anytime soon. Good thing too, because there are plenty of great options to see this month.
Nov. 14, 15, 16, Film Society East
Earlier this year, the film world collectively mourned over the loss of visionary director David Lynch. It was immediately evident the once-Philly resident, albeit briefly, had a wide-reaching and profound impact around the world.
Lynch crafted a remarkable oeuvre that inspired millions of artists and fans to not shy away from the evil or weird of the world, but embrace each creative endeavor with a sense of curiosity, wonder, and love.
In addition to screening Lynch’s feature films, shorts, documentaries and other oddities throughout the rest of 2025, PFS will present a rare screening of the director’s final film: 'Twin Peaks: The Return' starting Friday, Nov. 14. Envisioned as one 18-hour film, 'The Return' is — in this author’s opinion — not only the greatest work of Lynch’s celebrated career, but quite possibly the finest film ever made.
Hosted by The Return's George Griffith over the course of three days, audience members will embark on an unforgettable journey filled with surprises, shrieks, laughs, tears, and a whole lot of coffee.
Now through Nov. 16, Various Locations
The recently renamed Philadelphia American Asian Film Foundation will embark upon their 18th festival. With an expanded lineup of eclectic shorts programs, choice feature films, panels, awards, parties, and more, this year’s festival looks to be their biggest one yet. It’s exciting to see an even wider array of filmmakers, genres, perspectives, and conversations surrounding the AANHPI experience.
November and December, Bryn Mawr Film Institute
For many, the films of legendary filmmaker Akira Kurosawa are synonymous with feudal Japan, tyrannical shoguns, and noble ronin. It’s true he established the much imitated blueprint for the action-adventure in 'Seven Samurai' and 'The Hidden Fortress,' but his deep filmography was so much more than that.
BMFF is screening a great selection of his contemporary Japan films, many on 35mm, in the coming weeks. Trading in the worn samurai armor for tailored suits, these films have even continued to be revisited and adapted this year with Spike Lee’s latest film, 'Highest 2 Lowest.'
For more information, showtimes or to purchase tickets, visit filmadelphia.org
