Forum Des Images

Forum des Images Paris: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Located in the heart of Paris’s historic Les Halles district, the Forum des Images stands as a cornerstone of cinematic culture and innovation. Since its founding in 1988, this institution has evolved from a city-centered audiovisual archive into a vibrant hub for film, digital media, and immersive storytelling. Whether you’re a cinephile, a curious traveler, or a family seeking cultural activities, the Forum des Images offers a comprehensive exploration of Paris’s moving image heritage and the future of digital creation. This guide provides an in-depth look at the Forum’s history, visitor information, programming, and practical tips to help you maximize your experience (Les Halles Paris historical sites, Forum des Images official website, NewImages Hub).

Historical Overview: Les Halles and Forum des Images
Architectural Evolution
Audiovisual Collections and Cultural Programming
Festivals, Events, and Community Engagement
Location, Access, and Facilities
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Family and Youth Offerings
Visitor Tips and Practical Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visual Highlights
Summary and Recommendations
References

Historical Overview: Les Halles and Forum des Images

Les Halles: The “Belly of Paris”

Les Halles has served as Paris’s commercial and social core since the 11th century, beginning as a modest market near medieval city walls. By the 12th century, it was formalized by King Philip Augustus with permanent halls and protective fortifications. Over centuries, Les Halles became a vital food and trade hub, earning its moniker “the Belly of Paris”—a bustling, sensory-rich nexus immortalized in literature and art (Les Halles Paris historical sites, Story of a City, Rare Historical Photos).

Baltard Pavilions and 20th Century Transformation

The 19th-century redesign by architect Victor Baltard introduced the famed iron-and-glass pavilions, symbols of Parisian ingenuity and modernity. However, growing logistical and hygiene challenges led to the market’s relocation in the 1970s, and the pavilions’ controversial demolition provoked significant public outcry (Les Halles Paris historical sites).

Emergence of the Forum des Images

To rejuvenate the area, the city commissioned a new complex—Forum des Halles—in 1979, integrating commercial, cultural, and public spaces. Forum des Images was established in 1988 as “La Vidéothèque de Paris,” with a mission to collect and showcase visual works depicting Paris. Renamed in 1998, it quickly became synonymous with innovation in film preservation and exhibition (Forum des Images official website, Google Arts & Culture).

Architectural Evolution

Originally designed by Paul Chemetov, Forum des Images featured modernist elements and state-of-the-art screening rooms. A major renovation led by Anouk Legendre (X-TU) from 2005–2008, with input from lighting designer Georges Berne and graphic designer Pierre di Sciullo, enhanced accessibility, comfort, and the visitor experience. The space now offers transparency, flexibility, and communal areas that foster cultural exchange (Forum des Images official website).

The recent redevelopment of Les Halles, including the striking La Canopée canopy (inaugurated in 2016), has further integrated Forum des Images into Paris’s urban and cultural landscape, making it a nexus for shopping, leisure, and the arts (Story of a City).

Audiovisual Collections and Cultural Programming

Archival Scope

Forum des Images houses a vast audiovisual archive—over 6,400 films and thousands of documentaries, animations, shorts, and amateur works—chronicling Paris from 1895 to today (Forum des Images official website). Digitization efforts, especially following the 2008 renovation, have expanded access to these collections on-site and online.

Programming Diversity

Annually, the venue hosts around 2,000 screenings, drawing over 320,000 visitors (offi.fr). Key programming includes:

Thematic Cycles: Each season features cycles exploring genres, directors, or societal themes.
Festivals: Over 20 events yearly, such as NewImages Festival (XR and digital arts), Carrefour du cinéma d’animation (animation), L’Étrange Festival (genre cinema), and Un état du monde (global issues) (NewImages Hub, forumdesimages.fr).
Guest Speakers and Masterclasses: Renowned filmmakers and actors, including Francis Ford Coppola, Mike Leigh, and Isabelle Huppert, engage with audiences (offi.fr).
Innovative Media: Dedicated spaces for VR, video games, and interactive installations, notably through the NewImages Festival (NewImages Hub).

Festivals, Events, and Community Engagement

Forum des Images is a platform for both heritage and innovation, hosting:

Séries Mania (until 2017): Groundbreaking festival for international TV series.
Pocket Films: Celebrating mobile-filmed cinema.
Tout-Petits Cinéma: Introducing very young children to cinema (sortiraparis.com).
Industry and Educational Partnerships: Collaborations with TUMO Paris and other institutions for youth digital creation and media literacy (forumdesimages.fr).

The Forum promotes dialogue and inclusivity, hosting debates, workshops, and programs that address social, political, and cultural issues.

Location, Access, and Facilities

Address: 2 Rue du Cinéma, 75001 Paris, within Westfield Forum des Halles.
Transport:
- Metro: Les Halles (Line 4), Châtelet (Lines 1, 7, 14)
- RER: Châtelet-Les Halles (A, B, D)
- Bus: Lines 67, 74, 85 (Visit Paris Region)
Venue: Five screening rooms (30–444 seats), a café/bar, exhibition spaces, and communal areas.

Nearby attractions include the Centre Pompidou, Palais Royal, and the Seine.

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Opening Hours

General: Tuesday to Sunday, typically from 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM or 10:00 PM, depending on programming.
Closed: Mondays and select public holidays.

Check the official website for up-to-date schedules.

Ticketing

Standard Admission: €6–€7.20
Reduced Rates: €5–€5.80 for students, seniors, unemployed
Children (under 14): €4.50
Special Cards: Forum Liberté and Illimité cards offer additional discounts
Free Entry: For certain screenings, children under 12, and Paris residents for select events
Purchase: Online, at the venue, or through partners (Forum des Images official website)

Accessibility

Fully wheelchair accessible, with adapted restrooms and elevators.
Assistance available upon request.
Family and baby amenities provided (offi.fr).

Family and Youth Offerings

CinéKids and Tout-Petits Cinéma: Screenings and workshops for children from 18 months up (sortiraparis.com).
TUMO Paris: Free digital creation school for ages 12–18 (Wikipedia).
Workshops and Activities: Hands-on experiences in animation, coding, and audiovisual arts.

Visitor Tips and Practical Information

Plan Ahead: Consult the program and book tickets early, especially for festivals.
Arrive Early: Secure better seats and time to explore exhibitions or VR installations.
Combine Visits: The central location allows easy combination with shopping, dining, and visits to Paris landmarks.
Language: Many films are screened in original version with French subtitles; some events offer English translation.
Photography: Allowed in public spaces, restricted inside screening rooms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Forum des Images opening hours?
A: Typically Tuesday–Sunday, 12:00/13:00 to 20:00/22:00; closed Mondays. Confirm via official website.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Online, at the venue, or via partners. Advance booking advised for popular events.

Q: Is the venue accessible?
A: Yes, fully wheelchair accessible with adapted facilities.

Q: Are there activities for children?
A: Yes—CinéKids, Tout-Petits Cinéma, and workshops for various age groups.

Q: What are nearby sites to visit?
A: Centre Pompidou, Les Halles, Palais Royal, and the Seine are within walking distance.

Visual Highlights

Summary and Recommendations

Forum des Images is both guardian and innovator of Paris’s audiovisual heritage. Set in the dynamic Les Halles district, it offers unparalleled collections, diverse programming, and immersive experiences for all ages. With its commitment to accessibility, education, and community engagement, the Forum invites you to explore the city’s cinematic soul. Plan your visit by checking the latest schedules and ticketing options, and consider using digital tools like the Audiala app for personalized recommendations. Whether you’re interested in classic cinema, cutting-edge VR, or family fun, Forum des Images is a must-visit in Paris’s cultural landscape (Forum des Images official website, Les Halles Paris historical sites, NewImages Hub).