Coming to the silver screen this April is the third annual Arizona Architectural Film Showcase. Produced by No Festival Required, the independent film showcase will feature three documentary screenings (“Hollywood’s Architect: The Paul R. Williams Story,” “beadlearchitecture” and “Light Without Sun”) that pay tribute to Arizona’s architectural marvels.

“Everything is architecture,” says Steve Weiss, executive director of No Festival Required. “It affects everything—how we live, engage with others, engage or disengage from our environment, where we work, and how we work. I’m surprised how often architecture is important in so many things we deal with every day.”

Screenings are scheduled for April 9, April 13, and April 17 and will be held at two iconic downtown Phoenix locations—The Abbey Phoenix and Walter Studios. Walter Studios offers food, drinks and a vibrant atmosphere, while The Abbey provides an intimate outdoor courtyard experience. For ticket info visit nofestivalrequired.com.

The Arizona Architectural Film Showcase 2025 Lineup and Schedule

Hollywood’s Architect: The Paul R. Williams Story

When: April 9; 7 p.m. screening, doors open at 6:30 p.m. Food and drinks available for purchase before and after the screening.

Where: Walter Studios, 747 W. Roosevelt St., Phoenix

Ticket Price: $16 + service charge

Post-Film Programing: Virtual Q&A with the film’s director and producers

About the Film: This documentary chronicles the life of Paul R. Williams, a Black architect who overcame barriers of race to design some of the most iconic structures of the 20th century. From his groundbreaking work in Beverly Hills to his influence on modern architecture, Williams’s story is inspiring and a testament to resilience. Watch the trailer here.

beadlearchitecture

When: April 13; 6 p.m. screening, doors open at 5:30 p.m. Food and drinks available for purchase before and after the screening.

Where: Walter Studios, 747 W. Roosevelt St., Phoenix

Ticket Price: $16.00 + service charge

Post-Film Programing: Panel discussion with director Suzanne Johnson and local architects, including Eddie Jones of Jones Studio

About the Film: This 1999 documentary celebrates the life and work of Al Beadle, a visionary Arizona architect. Featuring interviews with Beadle himself, his clients and fellow architects, the film offers a deep dive into his unique style and enduring legacy.

Light Without the Sun

When: April 17; 7:30 p.m. screening (outdoors), doors open at 6:30 p.m. Complimentary soft refreshments and popcorn.

Where: The Abbey Phoenix, 302 W. Monroe St., Phoenix

Ticket Price: $18 + service charge. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Post-Film Programing: Q&A with director Clara Kraft Isono

About the Film: This documentary provides an intimate look into Can Lis, a house designed by the Danish architect Jørn Utzon on the island of Mallorca and is considered among the most significant projects of the 20th century. Set within one day, the film reflects the sensory nature of architecture, using interviews, narrative, and choreography to challenge how buildings are documented. Watch the trailer here.