In Paris, the resurgence of movie theaters is evident, with a full house marking a successful day for cinema owner Ronald Chammah. The event featured a lineup of Armenian directors, signaling a vibrant return to the “dark rooms” of Parisian cinemas.

Despite a lackluster global movie industry performance in 2024, France has bucked the trend, with Comscore data showing a nearly one million increase in attendances compared to the previous year. This is attributed to a strong cultural obligation among the French to support the arts and a unique appreciation for moviegoing.

Experts point to the French model of “cultural exception,” which emphasizes the artistic and industrial quality of the local film industry, supported by government policies and a strong educational focus on cinema. This commitment has helped sustain interest in attending cinemas, despite the availability of home entertainment options.

The comeback of cinemas in Paris is underscored by the reopening of venues like the Pathé Palace, a historic cinema renovated by architect Renzo Piano. This reflects a renewed passion for the cinematic experience in a city where going to the movies is seen as a vital part of cultural identity.

Even though attendance still trails pre-pandemic levels, there is optimism for the future with ongoing renovations and restorations of iconic movie houses. The dedication to cinema is embedded in French culture, as reflected in the rejuvenation of theaters like La Pagode, symbolizing hope for the industry.

Cinema enthusiasts like Yohann Lucian, a local bistro worker, remain confident that the tradition of moviegoing will endure in Paris. Despite global trends, the City of Lights continues to hold cinema in high regard, celebrating its role in the cultural fabric of society.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/05/world/europe/france-cinema-attendance-covid.html