What's Happening in Bethesda, MD…

Movie buffs in Bethesda have a special event to look forward to.

The Bethesda Arts & Entertainment District recently announced the five short documentary films that will be shown at the 2026 Bethesda Film Fest.

The films are “A Score in Absence,” by Max Rykov, a portrait of a Ukrainian pianist, 17-year-old Khrystyna, who has run from war twice: once fleeing the Crimea and then, Irpin.

“Bay to Baltimore” is by Camila De Ilhéus & Samantha Mitchell, and features painter and ultramarathon swimmer Katie Pumphrey, who plans to swim from the Chesapeake Bay Bridge to Inner Harbor in Baltimore, a 24-mile stretch known for its pollution.

“Jacob Kainen: The Last Expression,” a film by Jon Gann, is a portrait of the activist and artist, and “Kil & the Kids” by Ethan Baker profiles “Kil,” who mentors youth, often using art to help them cope with trauma.

The final film is Carolyn McCulley’s “The Danger of Disclosure,” the story of Jennier Lyell who disclosed her abuse only to find that truth telling carries a heavy cost. Organizers of events like this can help make them more enjoyable by using brochure printing to create programs describing the films.

The screenings are scheduled for April 10 and April 11, at 7.00 pm both days. All five films will be shown both evenings, and the filmmakers will take part in a discussion following the showings. Admission is $15, and the venue is the Landmark Bethesda Row Cinema, 7235 Woodmont Avenue.