Museum of Cinema (Cinémathèque Française)
The Cinematheque Francaise houses one of the biggest film archives, film-related records and other items from all around the globe
Cinematic experiences have captivated people for more than a century and continue to be just as, if not more, popular today as they were when cinema was first introduced with the screening of silent films. The Cinematheque Francaise is a Museum of Cinema situated in Paris. A visit to this city of love and lights would be incomplete without a stop at the Cinematheque Francaise in the 12th arrondissement.
The Cinematheque Francaise houses one of the biggest film archives, film-related records and other items from all around the globe. The Cinematheque Francaise was established before World War II and the entire film collection was almost lost when the German soldiers occupied France. Stealthy efforts had to be made in order to sneak the collection, bit by bit, into the unoccupied area of France where it would be safe from the German soldiers who were seeking out and destroying any movie or item of cinematics made prior to 1937.
After World War II, the Cinematheque Francaise was subsidized by the government and this funding allowed them to acquire some employees and a small premises from which to begin screenings of the collection. Daily screenings of movies from all over the world can still be seen at the Cinematheque Francaise. 1992 saw the amalgamation of the Cinematheque Francaise and the Bibliotheque du Film. This resulted in the one of the most comprehensive and extensive of all film libraries in existence today. The Cinematheque Francaise has also recently started preserving and repairing all the films in its archives to ensure the continued appreciation and recollection of cinematic history and classics.
There are quite a few amenities available at the Cinematheque Francaise and visitors can rest assured that a full and fun cultural day out awaits them. The film library, space scientists and image library, bookstore, restaurant, regularly updated exhibitions and screening room will keep even the most discerning of travellers happy and entertained.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes. Visit the official website for details.Museum of Cinema (Cinémathèque Française) Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Address: 51 Rue de Bercy, 75012 Paris, France
Phone: 01 71 19 33 33
Official Website: Museum of Cinema (Cinémathèque Française)
Museum of Cinema (Cinémathèque Française) Reviews
Rated out of 5
A visit to the Marilyn Monroe exhibition at the Cinémathèque Française, exploring the life, career, and enduring legacy of one of Hollywood’s most iconic stars. Through rare photographs, costumes, personal objects, and archival documents, the exhibition offers an intimate look at the woman behind the legend and her lasting influence on cinema and popular culture. I loved everything , a very curated exposition and I bought a lot of souvenirs and presents !!!
Cornelia Rotaru - 3 months ago
Came here for the Méliès permanent exhibition.
Highly recommended for film buffs, magicians, computer game developers, and anyone who enjoys witnessing the old craft of film making on celluloid.
Annette W - 4 months ago
Fantastic design. A worthwhile visit to an area of Paris not many tourists would venture too
Matt Derakhshan - 4 months ago
This is one of the Meccas of Cinéma. Great place to see a film with decent theaters at very affordable prices (7 euros). Beautiful exhibits. I saw a show on Orson Welles and it was outstanding with amazing memoribilia such as original Citizen Kane scripts and large posters in perfect condition. If you come here, you have to see the George Méliès permanent exhibit which treats you to unique insights into one of the pioneers of modern film making. Wonderful gift shop but Café is pretty average. Merci!
Charlie Parker - 5 months ago
This was just a fantastic exposition on Marilyn Monroe❤️As a teenager i read so many books on her so I was really happy to come here. There so many beautiful photos of her and there was details and stories about her life throughout the exposition. You could also sit down and watch clips of her movies. Highly recommend it
Brid - 4 months ago
Directions
| Metro / RER Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| M6 or M14 | Bercy | 6 minutes |
How to get to Museum of Cinema (Cinémathèque Française) by Metro / RER
By Metro: Take Metro Line 6 or 14 to Bercy Station. Exit and walk southwest to Rue de Bercy and follow it to your left (southeast). Cinémathèque Française is on the left just past the entrance to Parc de Bercy.
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Photo Gallery
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Park and entrance to the Cinémathèque Française cc licensed photo by Nico Paix -
Photo Credit: corno.fulgur75 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: corno.fulgur75 - cc license via Flickr
