January typically marks a slower season for new movie releases. As a result, moviegoers often feel uninspired. Big-screen offerings include sequels like Den of Thieves 2: Pantera and awards hopefuls like Mike Leigh’s Hard Truths.
For those seeking something beyond the latest blockbusters, repertory theaters in New York and Los Angeles offer cinematic gems. This month’s highlights include tributes to actors Donald Sutherland and Delphine Seyrig, as well as a curated series celebrating resistance cinema and classic films.
Whether you’re in the heart of Manhattan, the sun-soaked streets of Los Angeles—or even Atlanta—January’s repertory lineup promises something special.
New York: A Celebration of Icons and Genres
Metrograph
The Metrograph honors Delphine Seyrig with the series “Delphine Seyrig: Rebel Muse.” Screenings include Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles, named the greatest film of all time by Sight and Sound in 2022. Other highlights include Jacques Demy’s Donkey Skin, Luis Buñuel’s The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie, and Calamity Jane & Delphine Seyrig: A Story, a 2019 documentary piecing together Seyrig’s work and letters. Films in this series run throughout the month on weekends.
The theater also features a martial arts series spotlighting Zhang Ziyi with screenings of House of Flying Daggers, The Grandmaster, and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Sci-fi fans will enjoy the “Amongst Humans” series showcasing alien invasion classics like The Thing and Under the Skin.
IFC Center
IFC Center pays tribute to Donald Sutherland with “Donald Sutherland: (Never) the Guy Next Door.” The series includes MASH*, Ordinary People, Don’t Look Now, and Klute, among others. Starting January 8, IFC will show why Sutherland remains an enduring icon of cinema when they celebrate his career with 13 films.
For horror fans, IFC offers “Waverly Midnights: School Sucks.” The collection of student-focused horror films will include cult classics Suspiria, Battle Royale, The Craft, and Jennifer’s Body. Each film will screen on Friday and Saturday nights.
MoMA
The Museum of Modern Art kicks off 2025 with its annual “To Save and Project” series. The goal? To showcase restored cinematic treasures. This year’s highlights include Frank Borzage’s 1927 romance 7th Heaven, Francis Ford’s The Craving, and Anthony Mann’s Western Bend of the River. Recently honored with a Film Heritage Award, this series runs all month.
Los Angeles: Coen Brothers and Cult Classics
Landmark Nuart Theatre
The Landmark Nuart celebrates the Coen Brothers every Friday night with late screenings of restored classics. Films include Raising Arizona, The Big Lebowski, and Miller’s Crossing, which marks its 35th anniversary this year. A critical darling despite its initial box-office failure, Miller’s Crossing now enjoys a devoted following.
New Beverly Cinema
The New Beverly Cinema offers culinary delights with a double feature of Tampopo and Big Night on January 28-30. Both films explore the joys and struggles of food and cooking, making them the perfect pairing for food lovers. Earlier in the month, Nathan Silver’s Between the Temples will screen in 35mm. This will offer a rare chance to see the offbeat dramedy in its intended format.
Atlanta: Resistance Cinema at the Plaza Theatre
The Plaza Theatre in Atlanta turns its focus to “Resistance Cinema” with a powerful lineup. Screenings include Born in Flames, Guillermo del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth, and Charlie Chaplin’s The Great Dictator. Each film examines resistance to oppression and the fight for freedom.
The centerpiece of this series is Pier Paolo Pasolini’s controversial Salò or the 120 Days of Sodom. Presented in 35mm, this harrowing critique of fascism and capitalism feels especially relevant today. With its unflinching portrayal of moral decay, Salò offers a stark warning about the dangers of unchecked power.
A Month of Timeless Stories
January’s repertory offerings provide a much-needed escape from the mundanity of these cold winter days. Whether revisiting cinematic masterpieces or discovering overlooked gems, these screenings highlight the enduring power of film.
