American Cinematheque celebrates its 40th anniversary with a gala in Beverly Hills on November 20, recognizing Michael B. Jordan honor as part of its tradition of spotlighting notable talents in film. The event also features a curated series of Diane Keaton films, running through December 6, reflecting the Cinematheque’s commitment to honoring influential figures within the industry.
Celebrating Four Decades of Film Excellence
Founded in 1984 by movie enthusiasts Gary Abrahams, Gary Essert—who previously contributed to L.A.’s FilmEx—and the acclaimed filmmaker Sydney Pollack, American Cinematheque was inspired by Paris’s legendary Cinémathèque Française. Their vision brought a new level of film appreciation to Los Angeles, launching public screenings in 1985 and quickly establishing the Cinematheque as a core destination for film lovers worldwide. Over the years, the organization grew to encompass multiple venues, including the historic Egyptian Theatre, Aero Theatre, and Los Feliz 3 Theatre, reinforcing Los Angeles’s status as a cinematic capital.
Michael B. Jordan Recognized as Rising Industry Leader
The 40th annual awards ceremony not only honors Michael B. Jordan but emphasizes American Cinematheque’s ongoing focus on rising talent rather than simply looking at lifetime achievements. Executive director Ken Scherer explained the unique approach:
“The awards are an annual event, and this one is turning out to be quite exciting,”
Ken Scherer, Executive Director.
“When they created this award, they decided to do ‘mid-career’ as opposed to ‘life achievement.’ And having worked at AFI during some of the Great Life Achievement Award shows, it’s a valid interest because you can catch people on their way up. And Michael B. Jordan is reflective of that original concept. He’s on the ascent and, yet he’s achieved [a lot].”
Ken Scherer, Executive Director.
This year’s selection underscores Jordan’s impact on modern cinema—demonstrating exceptional range both as an actor and a producer—and positions him among an elite group of honorees who shape the future of the film industry.
Resilience and Growth through Challenging Times
While preparing for the milestone event, Scherer reflected on the nonprofit’s journey, especially its ability to adapt and thrive after significant changes. The organization’s survival and rebirth in recent years were strongly influenced by key decisions, particularly the 2018 sale of the Egyptian Theatre.
“The 40th [anniversary] is significant because we were able to do some things in 2018 by selling the Egyptian [Theatre], but yet retaining the right to program it from time for every week, which saved the Cinematheque,”
Ken Scherer, Executive Director.
“When you then put it in context of what happened with the pandemic that no one could have imagined, it would not be here today if we had not done that. It’s really significant that we’re here, but it’s even more significant that we survived and came out stronger than ever.”
Ken Scherer, Executive Director.
Scherer highlighted that the nonprofit has not only weathered adversity—such as the pandemic—but has leveraged each turning point to emerge even stronger and more relevant. These achievements were made possible by ongoing support from a community of patrons and significant contributions from cinema icons and organizations.
Expanding Reach and Innovation
American Cinematheque’s evolution involves opening its doors to a broader audience, not just limiting its influence to Los Angeles but also connecting with patrons nationally and internationally. Now, it stages events in multiple locations around the U.S., and has recently introduced ‘Bleak Week,’ an international festival spotlighting darker, challenging films that broaden cultural perspectives for moviegoers everywhere. The integration of new venues and outreach efforts underscores their commitment to film education and appreciation across generations.
“We view ourselves as a specialty cinema where we intertwine advanced screenings, premieres and award season with films from a hundred years ago,”
Grant Moninger, Artistic Director.
“We are bringing another festival to New York next year and expanding with our innovation for membership and a way that our customers will be able to interact and experience Cinematheque even if they’re not in Los Angeles.”
Grant Moninger, Artistic Director.
With over 1,600 screenings drawing 360,000 filmgoers annually, the organization is broadening its reach and continuing to inspire both passionate cinephiles and casual viewers.
Building an Enduring Cinematic Legacy
In addition to the Michael B. Jordan honor, the 40th anniversary introduces new initiatives such as launching a public archive to share decades of Q&As, photographs, and behind-the-scenes moments with a wider audience, and plans for a comprehensive history book chronicling American Cinematheque’s journey.
The resurgence and transformation are visible not just in sustained audience numbers but in a changing demographic. According to Scherer, young people in their twenties and thirties are engaging with Cinematheque programming now more than ever, reflecting a powerful generational shift.
“the stars seem to be aligned”
Ken Scherer, Executive Director.
“We’re strong and there’s such a resurgence,”
Ken Scherer, Executive Director.
“And what I love is it’s the younger generation. It’s the [people in their] twenties and the thirties. Our demographic from where we were in 2018 to where we are today, it doesn’t resemble anything like it did back then. So it’s a real interesting moment for reflection, but it’s also a moment for vision. And I think that’s what I’m trying to celebrate.”
Ken Scherer, Executive Director.
Looking ahead, American Cinematheque’s commitment to honoring talents like Michael B. Jordan, expanding its archives, and embracing new audiences ensures the next forty years will build on a legacy of innovation, community, and reverence for the art of film.
