An ornate balcony, a gigantic starry vault, seats worthy of a 1930s theater… Decorated like a film and designed to amaze, the Grand Rex was voted the world’s most beautiful cinema by Time Out in 2025. Here’s a look back at what has become an iconic Parisian landmark, combining Art Deco architecture, technical prowess and pop-cultural magic.
This Parisian landmark is the world’s most beautiful cinema
In 1932, founder Jacques Haïk, inspired by Mediterranean architecture and the tradition of atmospheric theaters, entrusted the construction of the Grand Rex to architects Auguste Bluysen and John Eberson, the American master of the atmospheric style. The result is the magnificent building we know today. Every year, over a million moviegoers flock to the Grand Rex: cinema enthusiasts, fans of iconic venues and the simply curious.
We’re not just talking about an anonymous cinema complex. The Grand Rex is a veritable cathedral of the 7th art. Its main auditorium? An immense starry vault, balconies worthy of an opera house, rare acoustics and, above all, a giant 25-metre screen. We love all the Grand Rex rooms, especially the recently inaugurated Infinite. With 300 seats, an integrated bar, comfortable seating and an outstanding sound system, it ticks all the boxes.
On the outside, it’s just as beautiful. The facade of the Grand Rex, slightly faded in recent years, was restored to its former glory in 2022. A major restoration campaign has brought back the champagne, ivory and cream hues of the building, just as it was when it was built. All in keeping with the Art Deco style of the period.
But beyond its beauty, the charm of the Grand Rex lies in what you can experience here. Harry Potter marathons, star-studded Marvel previews, concerts, musical performances, movie nights and cult screenings. What few people know: the Grand Rex can also be visited. With an immersive behind-the-scenes tour, sets, a mini-museum and juicy anecdotes about the venue, its stars and its metamorphoses. You can even take part in an escape game in the bowels of the building.
There are a thousand reasons to pass through the doors of this legendary building in the heart of Paris.
📍Location: Grand Rex – 1, boulevard Poissonnière, 75002