In order to rekindle young people’s interest in the 7th art, Raoul Mille, the city councilor in charge of literature and combating illiteracy, has proposed a reduced rate of four euros for young people at cinema venues from October 1st to 15th. “Money is a problem for many young people,” says Raoul Mille. Indeed, the prices applied in cinemas range from 7.50 euros to 9.80 euros. By lowering the prices, he hopes to encourage young people to “discover the magic of cinema.”
As for Sophie Duez, a municipal councilor from the Socialist Party, she believes that “there is a different relationship with screens than before.” Nowadays, young audiences prefer to turn to new technologies rather than the 7th art. “If they download movies, watch them at home, and no longer go to the cinema, it’s because it’s no longer a part of their habits,” insists Sophie Duez.
The solution would be reductions once a week throughout the year.
For her, the solution is not to offer reduced rates for just 15 days but throughout the year, once a week. “During those 15 days, young people might enjoy going to the cinema, but they won’t go back afterward,” argued Sophie Duez. It would be better to distribute this reduction one Saturday per month. “Young people don’t like being forced to gather; they prefer it when it’s not mandatory. They can thus choose their Saturday,” continues the Socialist Party councilor.
If the ticket price keeps some young people away, others spend a lot on popcorn, sweets, and drinks. But for Sophie Duez, “the economic argument is secondary; what’s more important is to create a sociological event.” In any case, Sophie Duez is waiting for one thing only: the results.
