L’Atalante Cinema in Bayonne Shatters Attendance Records, Charts Course for Expansion
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A thriving arts scene and a unique economic model are driving unprecedented success for L’Atalante cinema in Bayonne, France. The independent cinema has reported exceeding 160,000 admissions for the second consecutive year, a figure previously considered unattainable, despite challenges including a six-month closure of a neighboring cinema in 2024.
Defying Expectations in a Changing Landscape
“These are figures that completely break with the general context,” summarizes a leader within the Cinema & Cultures association, which manages the theater. The association had not anticipated surpassing the 160,000 admissions threshold for a second year running, particularly given the recent disruptions. Previously, when the Spiritan cinema operated two locations – the original Atalante on rue Denis-Etcheverry and the New Cinema on quai de Lesseps – it recorded approximately 100,000 admissions. Membership has also surged, reaching around 2,500, an increase of 700 since the consolidation of its venues.
“If we had announced objectives of this order a few years ago, people would have thought we were crazy,” remarked the administrative and financial director of the cinema. The success is attributed to a “coherent” economic model built on a strong team spirit and a commitment to fostering a welcoming environment alongside a bold and diverse programming selection.
Expansion on the Horizon
The City of Bayonne is actively supporting L’Atalante’s growth, having acquired a building adjacent to the cinema. Plans are underway to develop new social housing alongside initiatives to strengthen Bayonne’s arthouse cinema offerings. One potential scenario involves adding a fourth screening room to L’Atalante’s existing facilities.
A Holistic Approach to Sustainability
By 2025, the “associative employer” anticipates a workforce of 25, split evenly between cinema operations and its popular bistro. The bistro, co-directed by Marion Lespielle, a local market gardener, emphasizes plant-based cuisine sourced directly from local producers – a “seed to plate” philosophy. This culinary venture has become a significant community hub on the right bank of the Adour River.
Combined revenue from ticket sales, bistro income, and member contributions now covers 80% of the association’s €2 million operating budget, ensuring the financial stability needed to maintain a challenging and innovative cultural program.
A Distinctive “Editorial Line”
Sylvie Larroque, the artistic director of L’Atalante, describes the cinema’s programming as deliberately “going against the grain.” She notes a shift in the cinematic landscape, observing that films like “Sacré-Cœur,” backed by the Bolloré group, are finding mainstream success. “We are particularly keen on this as some dikes seem to have fallen in recent years,” Larroque stated. “When we see the success of a film like “Sacré-Cœur”… We say to ourselves that this is typically the kind of film that we will never broadcast.”
In 2025, the cinema showcased over 400 films and hosted more than sixty directors and actors. The year began on January 16 with a premiere screening of “Sundays,” directed by Bizkayan filmmaker Alauda Ruiz de Azua, who received the Concha de oro at the San Sebastian International Film Festival (Zinemaldia) last September. The screening was followed by a Q&A session with the director.
L’Atalante’s continued success demonstrates the enduring appeal of independent cinema and the power of a community-focused approach to cultural programming.
