The film “Dune” will be shown on Jan. 13, and the screening will include a discussion with director Denis Villeneuve. (photo courtesy of the Hammer Museum)

The Hammer Museum has announced this year’s selections for MoMA Contenders 2021, which marks the return of the series in-person in the museum’s Billy Wilder Theater.

The special ticketed series organized by the Museum of Modern Art offers audiences unique opportunities to see some of 2021’s most important and groundbreaking films before awards season. Screenings will be held from Jan. 5-27, and are followed by intimate and revealing conversations with filmmakers and surprise guests.

Opening the series on Jan. 5 will be “tick, tick… BOOM!” starring Andrew Garfield, who will be a part of a post-screening discussion. Other highlights include “King Richard” with actor Aunjanue Ellis on Jan. 12, “Dune” with director Denis Villeneuve on Jan. 13, “C’Mon C’mon” with director Mike Mills on Jan. 18, and “The Velvet Underground” with director Todd Haynes on Jan. 27. Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $20 and will be on sale to the public at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 16. The Hammer Museum is located at 10899 Wilshire Blvd. For information, call (310)443-7000 or visit hammer.ucla.edu.