American Classics in the Spotlight at Paris' Grand Palais Drive-In Cinema Paradiso

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There’s nothing everyday about Paris’ Grand Palais, but for two weeks this month, the sprawling monument is transformed into typical 1950s America when it becomes a temporary drive-in movie theater. From June 10-21, Cinema Paradiso is screening American classics like Taxi Driver, Back to the Future and The Big Lebowski. Expected to host up to 1,000 visitors per movie, the 12,000 square-meter cinema will be the largest drive-in theater to exist in a capital city.

There’s no need to worry about fitting thousands of cars into the cinema either, as the BBC reports there will be plenty of seating available with hundreds of deck chairs and parked open-top Fiat 500’s

The American experience would not be complete without the on-site roller disco, the vintage arcade and burgers and fries from the traditional American diner. Organizers still give a nod to the French locale, however, with a champagne and lobster bar and nightly music from popular French DJ’s like Ed Banger and Miss Kittin. The event’s nostalgic American atmosphere with a French twist is certainly a different turn from the Chanel fashion shows the Grand Palais has hosted in the past.
While drive-in theaters were a way of life in 1950s America, only around four hundred exist in the U.S. today and one hundred outside the country. The Cinema Paradiso will be a rare chance for Parisians to live the classic drive-in experience.
Entry is €10 at the door, but tickets for club nights and movie screenings (€19, including entry) can be bought in advance online. Hurry, before it’s over! Can’t make it to Paris in time? Take a virtual visit of the Grand Palais and check out our photos of the cinema below.