Who says you can’t reinvent yourself at 88? Just ask Claude Lelouch. The legendary filmmaker is boldly turning the page—leaving Paris behind in favor of sea breezes and launching a cinema-bistro that promises both gourmet and great conversations. For a man always faithful to his own path, this next step is as much evolution as it is celebration of cinema’s soul.
A New Setting and a Familiar Passion
Claude Lelouch is embracing a fresh chapter, stepping away from the hustle of the capital for the more mellow climate of the Normandy coast. But this is no retirement—far from it! Instead, he’s making an “assumed choice,” blending his love for film with a new entrepreneurial twist. The move is not a rupture but a continuation, tightening the knot between cinema and conviviality.
To mark his 88th birthday, Lelouch inaugurated his new cinema-bistro in a Normandy seaside town, under the approving gaze of Jean Dujardin and Elsa Zylberstein, who acted as the venue’s patrons. Family, friends, and curious locals gathered at this brand new space, where food and film go hand in hand—a venue designed to foster both screening and conversation, all just a popcorn throw away from the screen.
The Dream (Finally) Comes True
On Instagram, Lelouch introduced this as “a unique place I’ve dreamed of for a long time.” The official opening was set for Sunday, November 2, inviting cinephiles into an intimate space where major works are rediscovered and forgotten gems unearthed. The vibe? Think cozy living room with a direct welcome, and a regular rendezvous for film lovers—just with a much bigger TV (and real cinema sound!).
The inaugural event included an exclusive treat: Lelouch offered the first eight minutes of his upcoming feature— »it’s a draft, » he emphasized. This isn’t a show-off but an open invitation: sharing the work-in-progress, testing emotions, letting ideas circulate ahead of any final cut. Audiences glimpsed a provisional preview, a promise of transparency through each creative milestone.
« We haven’t found anything better to dream with, » Lelouch shared in front of the cameras, reaffirming his conviction that the cinema remains a gathering place. The intention? To create a dialogue between timeless classics and discoveries, all in a setting that values attentive listening and unhurried reflection. This isn’t just popular entertainment—it’s popular with standards.
The Art of Hospitality—With a Projector
Alexis Chermant, the director, describes a room of about thirty seats, rotating chairs, latest-generation screen and sound, and a nimble team of four. The goal: to feel like you’re in your own lounge, but with today’s high-tech polish. The smaller audience size is a feature, not a bug—quality attention, and a real chance to discuss after the credits roll.
- Opening screenings feature Lelouch’s own films, like Itinéraire d’un enfant gâté and L’aventure c’est l’aventure.
- Down the line, exclusive “premieres” are in the works: guest directors will present favorite films or upcoming projects, spurring audience debate and feedback.
The space itself comes with stories: originally abandoned, it caught Lelouch’s eye, survived the scrutiny of a town hall committee and several candidates, and has since been expanded and renovated for proper audience comfort. It will also act as a neighborhood studio, perfect for editing and sound mixing far from distractions.
Lelouch now lives nearby, announcing a shift to a more balanced rhythm: only two days a week in Paris, with the rest by the sea—healthier climate perks included. The venue doubles as an office, soundproofed and fully equipped, allowing him to focus on fine-tuning sound and details in peace.
Living Cinema: Community, Craft, and Conversation
When it comes to screens, the ambition is as clear as a restored classic: project milestone features from the past 130 years and spotlight « films of tomorrow. » With approximately 1,300 works to revisit and a selection of masterpieces each year, movie buffs are in for a treat. Regular monthly encounters are planned, bringing actors and directors in to share personal favorites and professional insights—because why stop at just watching films when you can dissect them with the pros?
- The project stands on three pillars:
- Local roots
- Discreet professional use
- Dynamic, lively programming
Screenings, lively debates, and guest visits will energize the season, alongside a permanent editing workshop. For Lelouch, it’s all about blending transmission, focused work, and creative “breathing”—all designed to last, but never to stand still.
The lesson? It’s never too late to dream up something new. Whether you’re a stalwart cinephile, a seeker of great company, or just in need of a good film, Claude Lelouch’s cinematic bistro is ready to welcome you—conversation, creativity, and comfort in each seat. Sea air included, no extra charge!
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
