Ronald Chammah, a cinema owner on the Left Bank of Paris, recalls the disheartening days of 2022 when the pandemic raised doubts about the future of France's cherished moviegoing tradition. Fast forward to recent times, and the scene is markedly different. Chammah joyfully recounts a sell-out screening of Armenian art-house films in late November, demonstrating that cinema attendance in France is not only recovering but thriving.
After a tough global year for the film industry in 2024, characterized by Hollywood strikes, the mood in France contrasts sharply. While Sean Baker, winner of best director at this year's Oscars, lamented the disappearance of American movie screens, France embraces a resurgence characterized by fresh statistics indicating a robust return to “les salles obscures,” or “dark rooms.”
The sentiment toward cinema in France is deeply rooted in a collective obligation to support the arts, underscoring a preference for shared experiences over solitary viewing. The Institut Lumière, a prominent film society in Lyon, declared last year's increased admissions a victory over pandemic setbacks and the digital prevalence of scrolling and swiping, reinforcing the need to nurture cultural experiences in communal settings.
This encouraging trend poses a poignant reminder of the vitality embedded in cinema, reflecting a broader cultural commitment to support artistic endeavors amidst global uncertainties. So as many nations grapple with sustaining their cinematic traditions, France stands out as a beacon of hope, highlighting the power of collective cultural engagement in a post-pandemic world.
