In the heart of Palm Springs, where the sun seems to shine eternally, a darker force takes hold each May. The Arthur Lyons Film Noir Festival, now in its 25th year, is set to cast a cinematic crime wave over the desert city from May 9th to May 12th. With a lineup featuring a dozen classic films from the 1940s and ’50s, this year’s edition promises to captivate both devoted locals and noir enthusiasts alike.
The festival, curated and hosted by the esteemed Alan K. Rode, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of film noir. Rode, a luminary in the realm of classic cinema, brings together a selection of iconic titles and hidden gems, ensuring a captivating journey into the shadows of Hollywood’s golden era. Alongside Rode, noir aficionados will be treated to insights from Eddie Muller, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the screenings at the Palm Springs Cultural Center.
Reflecting on the festival’s evolution over a quarter-century, Rode acknowledges the unwavering support of the audience as the cornerstone of its longevity. What began as a passion project by Arthur Lyons and Craig Prater has blossomed into a cultural institution, drawing patrons from across Palm Springs and beyond. Rode’s dedication to presenting a diverse array of films, from beloved classics to overlooked treasures, has kept audiences coming back year after year.
The lineup for the festival spans the breadth of noir’s cinematic landscape, offering something for every discerning viewer. From the gritty underworld of “Body and Soul” to the suspenseful intrigue of “Shadow of a Doubt,” each screening promises to transport audiences to a world where morality blurs and danger lurks around every corner.
Beyond the silver screen, the festival offers a unique opportunity for cinephiles to immerse themselves in the noir experience. Attendees can enjoy leisurely breaks between screenings, indulging in culinary delights and libations against the backdrop of Palm Springs’ relaxed atmosphere. It’s a chance to savor the thrill of discovery and camaraderie that defines the noir community.
As the festival enters its 25th year, it stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of film noir and its timeless appeal. Amidst the glitz and glamour of modern cinema, the Arthur Lyons Film Noir Festival remains a beacon for those who seek the allure of shadows and the intrigue of the unknown.
So, as the sun sets over Palm Springs, prepare to be captivated by a cinematic journey into the heart of darkness. The 25th anniversary of the Arthur Lyons Film Noir Festival awaits, promising a weekend of mystery, intrigue, and unforgettable storytelling.
Full weekend passes (for $149) and tickets for individual programs (at $14.50) can be purchased in advance
The 2024 schedule:
Thursday May 9 Opening Night
7:30 PM Body and Soul (1947)
Friday May 10
10:00 AM The Scarlet Claw (1944)
1:00 PM Border Incident (1949)
4:00 PM No Man of Her Own (1950)
7:30 PM Across the Bridge (1957)
Saturday May 11
10:00 AM Crime Wave (1954)
1:00 PM Dead Reckoning (1946)
4:00 PM Woman in Hiding (1950)
7:30 PM Day of the Outlaw (1959)
Sunday May 12
10:00 AM The Enforcer (1951)
1:00 PM Escape in the Fog (1945)
4:00 PM Shadow of a Doubt (1942)
For tickets, please click here.
