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

Impressive design of the Cinémathèque Française
Impressive design of the Cinémathèque Française cc licensed photo by Meuh !

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

Official Website: Museum of Cinema (Cinémathèque Française)

Fee: Yes. Visit the official website for details.

Closed Now

Regular Hours:
Hours may be subject to change. Please verify on the official website.

  • Monday: 12:00 pm - 8:30 pm
  • Wednesday: 12:00 pm - 8:30 pm
  • Thursday: 12:00 pm - 8:30 pm
  • Friday: 12:00 pm - 8:30 pm
  • Saturday: 12:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Category: Cinema Museums Art Galleries

Address: 51 rue de Bercy
75012 Paris
France

Phone: +33 1 71 19 33 33

Reviews

Yelp Rating:
4 out of 5 4 Star Rating
Based on 40 Reviews.

See all reviews on Yelp

4 Star Rating A must for lovers of cinematic art - ban on photography at its museum a big minus. The famous Cinémathéque Francaise is a must-see for all lovers of things... Read More

Thomas M. Mar-10-2015

4 Star Rating I felt immersed in beauty coming here asI had the pleasure of watching Tati's "Jour de fête" at this theater. Before and after the film you are able to... Read More

Raquel A. Jan-22-2014

1 Star Rating I was really looking forward into going to this museum. I work in film and love Paris but if you're a tourist or look like one I guess DON'T visit this... Read More

Nicole L. Oct-20-2018

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Directions

Metro / RER Line Nearest Station Walking Time
M6 or M14Bercy6 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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Video tour showing off the features and architecture of Cinémathèque Française

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