Summary of the Cinematic Experience in Paris
With over 100 movie theaters in operation and roughly 300 films running each week throughout the city, from blockbusters to artistic revivals, Paris stands out as the ultimate city for film enthusiasts. Visiting one of these charming venues is a wonderful way to spend time, particularly when it is rainy in Paris. However, more than just entertainment, going to the cinema is a cherished cultural activity for Parisians. Interestingly, even with the rise of Netflix and other streaming platforms, their love for cinema, or “the seventh art” as the French refer to it, remains strong.
Before you settle into your seat, it’s important to remember: in Paris, snacks like popcorn can become a noisy distraction, violating the movie-watching experience. Therefore, if you wish to avoid disapproving glares from fellow viewers, opt for quieter snacks during the show.
1. La Cinémathèque Française
The Cinémathèque Française represents a prestigious establishment in the Paris film scene. Recently relocated from smaller premises in Northeastern Paris, it now resides in a stunning building designed by American architect Frank Gehry. Over its 70 years of existence, La Cinémathèque has screened more than 40,000 films, showcasing a wealth of cinematic history.
Best Known For
Its programming is known for revivals, thematic festivals, and tributes to iconic directors. The center also boasts a significant cinema history museum that is worth visiting.
2. Le Champollion
Founded in 1938, “Le Champo” is among the most cherished theaters in the Latin Quarter. This cinema, popular with students from the nearby Sorbonne, has hosted premieres for celebrated French directors like Marcel Carné and Jacques Tati.
Best Known For
The Champo is particularly famous for its memorable retrospectives, having highlighted the Nouvelle Vague cinema from the 1960s, along with tributes to industry luminaries such as Tim Burton, Claude Chabrol, and Stanley Kubrick.
Location
51 Rue des Ecoles
Metro: Saint-Michel, Odéon, or Cluny La Sorbonne
3. Le Reflet Medicis
Adjacent to the Champo on Rue Champollion, Le Reflet Medicis is another gem in the Latin Quarter. The venue features three distinct theaters, each showcasing different film selections.
Best Known For
Le Reflet attracts audiences with its film noir revivals and a strong focus on independent cinema from around the globe. It regularly screens original-version films in English.
Guests can enjoy drinks and engaging discussions at the dimly-lit bar across the street, also named Le Reflet.
4. Mk2 Quai de Seine and Mk2 Quai de Loire
These new sister cinemas face each other across the serene Bassin de la Villette in Northeastern Paris. They have significantly contributed to the cultural revival of the previously downtrodden 19th arrondissement.
Best Known For
A unique village-like atmosphere combined with multiplex comfort. Moviegoers can take a ride in a small white boat across the canal with their tickets. These cinemas also frequently showcase a variety of English-language films, surrounded by cafés, restaurants, and multimedia shopping options.
Location
7 Quai de Loire and 14 Quai de Seine
Metro: Jaures
5. Centre Georges Pompidou Cinemas
Nestled in a corner of the prominent Centre Georges Pompidou, this cinema is renowned for its dedications to esteemed filmmakers and thematic festivals. Recent retrospectives included renowned directors like Martin Scorsese and Jean-Luc Godard, alongside screenings of films from Cal Arts students.
Visiting this cinema is a perfect complement to exploring the remarkable permanent collection at the National Museum of Modern Art.
6. La Pagode (currently closed)
La Pagode is one of Paris’s most beautifully designed cinemas. Situated within the fashionable 7th arrondissement and close to the Bon Marché department store, it is located in a 19th-century structure inspired by a Chinese pagoda, making it an ideal destination for a romantic cinema experience.
The venue features a charming green terrace perfect for tea and a resident black cat named Licorice, adding to its appeal.
Best Known For
Famous for revivals and thematic festivals, La Pagode also screens contemporary and historic films in their Original Version on a regular basis.
Note: Unfortunately, the cinema is currently closed due to a rental dispute between its owners and the operator. An investor acquired the location in 2017, hoping to reopen it in the near future.
