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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Cinéma Beaubien, March 2023 (credit: Daniel Bromberg)




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