Scorsese and Tarantino Join Forces to Save La Clef Cinema

The Parisian cinema La Clef has a remarkable story of resilience and community. After closing in 2018, it seemed its fate was sealed. However, a dedicated group of supporters, including prominent filmmakers like Martin Scorsese and Quentin Tarantino, rallied to revive it.

History of La Clef Cinema

Founded in 1973 by Claude Frank-Forter, La Clef quickly established itself as a hub for independent and avant-garde films in Paris. Frank-Forter, inspired by his passion for cinema, recruited esteemed programmer Bernard Martinand from the Cinémathèque Française. This partnership cultivated a rich array of films from underrepresented voices and emerging talent.

Challenges and Closure

Despite its reputation, the cinema struggled against growing competition from television and digital platforms. By 2018, the building’s owner, Caisse d’Epargne, permanently closed its doors due to declining audiences.

A group of former employees and loyal patrons formed La Clef Revival, squatting the building to keep the cinema’s spirit alive. For over two years, they organized free screenings that attracted around 25,000 attendees, earning support from notable filmmakers.

Community Efforts to Revive La Clef

In March 2022, authorities evicted the squatters, but they swiftly organized another campaign to acquire the building legally. The movement received significant backing, with Tarantino and Scorsese making substantial donations. Scorsese emphasized the importance of preserving independent cinemas, stating, “Every theater matters.”

Fundraising Success

• The La Clef Revival team secured donations from over 5,000 supporters.
• An art sale at the Palais de Tokyo in 2023 added funds, aided by works from artist Wolfgang Tillmans and filmmaker David Lynch.
• By June 2024, they purchased the building for nearly 3 million euros (approximately $3.2 million).

Reopening and Future Plans

After 18 months of restoration, La Clef celebrated its grand reopening on January 14. Now run by a collective of students, filmmakers, and cinephiles, the cinema features no fixed ticket prices, allowing entry by donation. Its inaugural screening showcased “Talking about Trees,” a documentary highlighting the efforts of filmmakers to save a cinema.

Currently, La Clef’s programming emphasizes groundbreaking and politically themed works. Upcoming screenings include a documentary on FARC guerrillas and a visual essay by Lithuanian filmmaker Jonas Mekas.

A Vision for the Future

Kira Simon-Kennedy, a member of La Clef Revival, expressed hope that their journey serves as inspiration. “We want to show it’s possible to reclaim space from commercial real estate and operate collectively.” The revitalization of La Clef reflects the power of community passion for cinema and its potential impact on cultural landscapes.