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Staff Writer Intern
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April 22, 2026
Los Angeles is the entertainment capital of the world, and this May, it offers film enthusiasts unparalleled access to cinematic history with a weekend of restored masterpieces. From May 29 to May 31, the UCLA Film & Television Archive is unlocking its vaults for the 22nd biennial UCLA Festival of Preservation.
Hosted at the Hammer Museum’s Billy Wilder Theater, the three-day event showcases 45 meticulously restored titles — and thanks to an anonymous donor, admission is completely free.
What to expect at the 2026 Festival
For cinephiles and history buffs looking for unique things to do in LA this May, the festival offers a rare chance to see forgotten silent gems, rescued television broadcasts, and mid-century classics exactly as they were meant to be seen.
This edition’s lineup includes 11 feature films, four television programs, and 30 short works, including world and regional restoration premieres, along with introductions by industry experts and film historians.
Must-see programming highlights
Friday, May 29: The festival kicks off with Ossie Davis’ “Black Girl” (1972), paired with “…& Beautiful” (1969) — the first syndicated TV special for African American audiences, saved from a rare 2-inch videotape.
Saturday, May 30: Features the visually stunning Argentine film noir “Si muero antes de despertar” (1952) and a new restoration of “The Magnificent Matador” (1955), starring Oscar-winning actor Anthony Quinn.
Sunday, May 31: The festival closes with André de Toth’s classic “The Other Love” (1947), featuring the original theatrical ending unseen by audiences since the 1940s.
How to attend
Tickets for this cinematic event cannot be purchased; they are strictly available on a walk-up basis!
Dates: Friday, May 29 – Sunday, May 31
Location: Billy Wilder Theater, Hammer Museum (Westwood)
The full schedule is available on the UCLA Film & Television Archive website!