Ciné Lumière: 17 Queensbury Place, South Kensington, SW7
Info: 020 7073 1356
Tube: South Kensington

Patrons: Catherine Deneuve

Listen to Stevan Bennett's report on the Cine Lumiere for BBC London 94.9's Big Picture

Brief History

Launched by the 'Godmother of French cinema', Catherine Deneuve, in March 1998, Ciné Lumière is a stylish new London showcase for French, European and World cinema.

Attached to the Institut Français du Royaume-Uni, it was founded in 1910, and situated in an impressive art-deco listed building. The Institut Francais is the official French government centre of language and culture. It is one of 150 such Instituts throughout the world.

Programming Policy

The Ciné Lumière's exterior at night.

The Ciné Lumière may be diverse in its outlook and passionate about foreign language films that emerge from the Festival circuit, but it is a willingness to showcase new talent that gives them an edge, as Ciné Lumière programmer, Julien Planté explains:

"We aim to reflect the French interest in cinema in all its diversity.
To achieve this, we screen new releases in our 'first run' slots.

You can also catch up with recent releases and special features, such as our Opening Shots showcase for emerging French filmmakers whose films may not yet have UK distribution. In addition, we are in partnership with film festivals such as the annual celebration of Portuguese Cinema."

Inside the Lumière auditorium

What to look out for in 2003

French director Cédric Klapisch is not well known outside his native country, but 'L'Auberge Espagnole' (Pot Luck) - about a 25-year-old student writing his memoirs of Spanish high-living - could be the movie to seal his international reputation.

"I think Pot Luck will do well this summer because it is full of English humour," says Julien Planté, "It is also sweet, sexy and charming."

Claim to Fame

Think of French actors and you find yourself thinking of Gérard Depardieu, Alain Delon or Michel Piccoli. But it is actor Jean-Claude Brialy, the son of a high-ranking French military officer, who comes immediately to Julien Plante's mind:

"In 2002 we managed to screen over 300 different films and host 35 events, which was a great achievement, but when Jean-Claude Brialy - who is a real part of the history of French cinema - came to Ciné and talked about his career, on stage in front of an audience, it was truly breathtaking."

An audience with one of the greats...Michel Piccoli onstage at the Ciné Lumière

More Independent Cinema:
The Phoenix, East Finchley
The Rio, Hackney
The Electric, Portobello Road

More Film:
New releases in London
Film Finder: putting you in the picture

More Entertainment:
Real London entertainment: where you live

Useful links:
Ciné Lumière Cinema
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