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Montreal's Indie Cinemas Need Your Support | The Main

Montreal's Indie Cinemas Need Your Support

Independent theatres have been part of Montreal's cultural landscape since the beginning of the 20th century, but is their future secure? One initiative is trying to ensure they don't go anywhere.

May 24, 2023 · 3 min read

Montreal's Indie Cinemas Need Your Support

Cinéma Beaubien, March 2023 (credit: Daniel Bromberg)

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There’s something about heading down to your iconic local cinema that just feels so inherently cool. If nothing more, it’s the inescapable feeling of nostalgia you experience once you step onto the cinema's sticky carpet and breathe in a deep whiff of freshly popped kernels.

Luckily, Montreal has its share of independent cinemas, with theatres such as the beloved Cinéma du Parc and Cinéma Beaubien to relatively newer options like Cinéma Moderne and, well, more unique options like historic (and merch-worthy) Cinéma L'Amour. These theatres are not only where indie films are screened – but where they are absorbed, shared, and debated once the curtains close.

Local cinemas can be paramount in uplifting their communities both economically and culturally, but above all, in introducing their audiences to films they’ll love and connect with. They can also nurture local culture, support local filmmakers, lease space for local artists or community members, and—in some cases—preserve historic buildings by continuing to occupy its space.

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Montreal's Indie Cinemas Need Your Support

Independent theatres have been part of Montreal's cultural landscape since the beginning of the 20th century, but is their future secure? One initiative is trying to ensure they don't go anywhere.

May 24, 2023 · 3 min read

Montreal's Indie Cinemas Need Your Support

Cinéma Beaubien, March 2023 (credit: Daniel Bromberg)

The Main is reader-supported. Subscriptions are what keep us independent. Five dollars a month — the restaurants, the guides, the weekly bulletin, and what to do each weekend. Support us today.

There’s something about heading down to your iconic local cinema that just feels so inherently cool. If nothing more, it’s the inescapable feeling of nostalgia you experience once you step onto the cinema's sticky carpet and breathe in a deep whiff of freshly popped kernels.

Luckily, Montreal has its share of independent cinemas, with theatres such as the beloved Cinéma du Parc and Cinéma Beaubien to relatively newer options like Cinéma Moderne and, well, more unique options like historic (and merch-worthy) Cinéma L'Amour. These theatres are not only where indie films are screened – but where they are absorbed, shared, and debated once the curtains close.

Local cinemas can be paramount in uplifting their communities both economically and culturally, but above all, in introducing their audiences to films they’ll love and connect with. They can also nurture local culture, support local filmmakers, lease space for local artists or community members, and—in some cases—preserve historic buildings by continuing to occupy its space.

Free account required

For readers who care about Montreal

Create a free account to read this story and access 3 articles per month, plus our weekly Bulletin.

Independent. Local. Reader-supported.

or

Already a member? Sign in

Comments

Welcome to The Main's comments section!

Share your thoughts and join the conversation. Please be respectful and constructive.

No comments yet. Be the first!

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