French cinema, once in decline during harsh lockdowns, is experiencing a revival, showcasing a determined love for the art form. Ronald Chammah, owner of two small cinemas on Paris’ Left Bank, recalls a bleak 2022 when he feared that the love for film was waning due to the pandemic. However, the atmosphere has shifted dramatically. Recently, Chammah witnessed a remarkable turnout for screenings of lesser-known Armenian art-house films, labeling it a record-breaking day for his theaters.
In stark contrast, the global movie industry saw disappointing results in 2024, largely due to strikes in Hollywood and the ongoing loss of American theaters since the pandemic. During the Oscars, director Sean Baker lamented the continuous decline of cinemas, highlighting a concerning trend for American culture. Yet, in France, film enthusiasts are embracing the idea of supporting the arts as a civic duty, fueling attendance in what is fondly referred to as “les salles obscures” or “dark rooms.”
The Institut Lumière, a Lyon-based film society, celebrated France’s recent admission numbers, framing them as a victory over both the pandemic restrictions and the overwhelming influence of digital entertainment. This optimism underscores a collective commitment from the French public to sustain their cultural landscape through shared experiences in theaters, marking a hopeful resurgence for the industry.
In stark contrast, the global movie industry saw disappointing results in 2024, largely due to strikes in Hollywood and the ongoing loss of American theaters since the pandemic. During the Oscars, director Sean Baker lamented the continuous decline of cinemas, highlighting a concerning trend for American culture. Yet, in France, film enthusiasts are embracing the idea of supporting the arts as a civic duty, fueling attendance in what is fondly referred to as “les salles obscures” or “dark rooms.”
The Institut Lumière, a Lyon-based film society, celebrated France’s recent admission numbers, framing them as a victory over both the pandemic restrictions and the overwhelming influence of digital entertainment. This optimism underscores a collective commitment from the French public to sustain their cultural landscape through shared experiences in theaters, marking a hopeful resurgence for the industry.
