a keen observer of heritage cinema at Lumière
 

POSTED ON 18.10.2024

At the MIFC, Richard Patry participates in a round table discussion on cinemas and the public's renewed interest in heritage films.

© J-L Mège

How would you define your job?

I operate movie theatres, with the goal of welcoming audiences, sharing and meeting people. The cinema is a setting complete with its seats, carpets and optimal conditions of comfort. In the middle we place the beautiful diamond that is the film. My job is to create the link between the film, its auteurs and the audience that will be enriched by it. I'm also Chairman of the National Federation of French Cinemas (FNCF), which brings together all the cinemas of France, the cinemas of networks like Pathé, independent entrepreneurs like me, municipal cinemas, and even travelling cinemas.

How do you see the Lumière film festival and the MIFC?

This festival is a magical place where you can see all kinds of films. Along with the Film Market, it showcases a phenomenon that occurred in the 2010s, with the switch to digital in movie theatres around the world, and even more so since the Covid pandemic: cinemas are promoting heritage work with film series and rereleases, which is working very well. Another interesting event is the anniversary of the major film companies, such as Warner, which is rereleasing part of their catalogue. There are also more and more movie clubs. Audiences are showing a renewed interest in heritage screenings.

What have you observed ?

In 2023, we broke a historical attendance record in France: 4.4 million filmgoers went to see heritage works. This is the highest figure since 1997! I discussed these new trends and commented on this major success with other exhibitors at the MIFC round table. The invited professionals were from France and Europe. It was an opportunity to find out whether this phenomenon is also happening in other countries.

What is your favourite film ?

Leaving the Lumière Factories (1895), because it was the very first! I'm a big fan of musical comedies in all forms. It's my very own Proust madeleine! I love it when people sing and dance, whether they're happy or sad!

Interviewed by Fanny Bellocq