Montreal's Independent Cinemas Experience a Remarkable Revival
Cinema is experiencing a significant revival across Montreal, according to Roxanne Sayegh, director of Cinéma du Parc, Cinéma Beaubien, and Cinéma du Musée. As audiences prepare for the upcoming Oscars, these independent theatres are reporting increased attendance and sold-out screenings of critically acclaimed films.
A Growing Trend in Audience Engagement
Recent weeks have seen moviegoers flocking to Montreal's independent cinemas to catch up on award-winning films. "There are a lot of people in our cinemas," says Sayegh, who has witnessed consistent growth during her three-year tenure. Attendance at Cinéma du Parc has increased by nearly 20% since renovations in 2022, with average screenings now drawing 34 people compared to 29 previously. Overall revenues across the three theatres rose by 12% last year.
Oscar-Nominated Films Draw Crowds
The programming at these independent venues focuses on arthouse cinema rather than mainstream Hollywood blockbusters. Recent screenings have included:
- Sentimental Value: Joachim Trier's family drama that packed Cinéma du Musée's large hall and received nine Oscar nominations
- It Was Just an Accident: Jafar Panahi's Cannes Palme d'Or winner that sold out at Cinéma Beaubien
- The Secret Agent: Kleber Mendonça Filho's political thriller that filled many seats despite a Sunday evening showing
These films represent what Sayegh describes as "cinéma d'auteur" – arthouse works that challenge viewers and transport them around the world through storytelling.
Unique Theatre Experiences
Each of Montreal's independent cinemas offers a distinct atmosphere that contributes to the overall movie-going experience:
- Cinéma du Parc: Originally opened in 1977, this theatre recently completed a $1.4-million renovation with support from Quebec director Denis Villeneuve. It features a hip, red velvet lounge vibe with new seats and state-of-the-art projection equipment.
- Cinéma Beaubien: Possibly Montreal's oldest-running movie theatre, first opened in 1937, maintains an intimate neighbourhood feel while programming primarily French-language and international films.
- Cinéma du Musée: Located within the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, this 300-seat theatre hints at the expansive movie palaces of old and offers varied programming including art films and festival collaborations.
Strategic Integration and Future Growth
Last fall, the three theatres unified under a single website – cinemacinema.com – making it easier for audiences to discover what's playing across all venues. "It makes people circulate more between cinemas," explains Sayegh, noting that the integrated approach has increased visibility for their programming.
The success extends beyond these three venues. According to Sayegh, Montreal's other independent cinemas like the Cinémathèque québécoise and Cinéma Moderne are also thriving, with the Cinémathèque reporting its best year ever in 2025.
This revival reflects a broader national trend, as noted by Sonya Yokota William of the Network of Independent Canadian Exhibitors. Despite industry challenges, independent cinema remains extremely pertinent and continues to attract audiences, particularly younger viewers seeking the theatrical experience.
Sayegh expresses optimism about the future, mentioning the possibility of opening additional cinemas in different Montreal neighbourhoods. "It's a good time to think about growth," she concludes, pointing to the renewed public appetite for quality cinema experiences.
