The Cinematheque Francaise in Paris was a revolutionary institution that played a crucial role in the history of cinema. Founded by Henri Langlois in 1936, it quickly became a hub for film enthusiasts and professionals alike.
What made the Cinematheque Francaise so special? Let’s take a closer look.
The Collection
One of the most remarkable features of the Cinematheque Francaise was its collection of films. Langlois and his team were incredibly passionate about preserving and showcasing films from around the world. They scoured the globe to find rare and forgotten films, many of which would have been lost without their efforts.
Langlois once famously said, “The film of tomorrow will be an act of love.” This sentiment was reflected in the care with which he and his team treated their collection. They were meticulous in their efforts to preserve and restore films, using cutting-edge technology to ensure that each one was presented in its best possible form.
The Screenings
Of course, a film collection is only as valuable as the audience that gets to see it. And this is where the Cinematheque Francaise truly shone.
Langlois believed that films were meant to be seen, not just stored away on shelves. He organized regular screenings at the Cinematheque Francaise, often showing films that had never been seen before or had not been seen in years.
Langlois was known for his unconventional programming choices. He would often pair seemingly unrelated films together, creating unexpected connections and illuminating new aspects of each work. His programming choices were also influenced by his belief that cinema was an art form worthy of serious study and analysis.
The Influence
The impact of the Cinematheque Francaise cannot be overstated. Langlois and his team inspired countless filmmakers, critics, and cinephiles. They helped to elevate cinema from a popular entertainment to a serious art form.
The Cinematheque Francaise also played a key role in the development of the French New Wave. Filmmakers like Jean-Luc Godard and Francois Truffaut were regulars at the Cinematheque Francaise, soaking up the films and ideas that would shape their own work.
The Legacy
Today, the legacy of the Cinematheque Francaise lives on. The institution still exists in Paris, with a collection of more than 40,000 films. It continues to hold regular screenings and events, and its influence can be seen in film culture around the world.
The Cinematheque Francaise was special because it was more than just a collection of films – it was a community of people who were passionate about cinema. Langlois created an environment that encouraged discussion, analysis, and appreciation of film as an art form. His legacy continues to inspire generations of filmmakers and film lovers today.