If you’re a movie lover, there’s news in Chapultepec: Casa del Lago UNAM has renovated its historic movie theater, formerly known as the Sala Lumière. The space has more than 60 years of history and is embarking on a new chapter with updated technology, greater comfort, and free programming.
The renovation is part of the “Casa del Lago UNAM: Cutting-Edge Innovation and Sustainability in the Heart of Chapultepec” project, which includes various initiatives to strengthen the venue’s cultural infrastructure and enhance the visitor experience.
Here’s a look at the renovated Casa del Lago movie theater
The theater was originally inaugurated in 1961 as the home of the Casa del Lago UNAM film club. Since then, it has served as a meeting place for audiences, filmmakers, film festivals, and cinematic projects of artistic and political significance.
It now features improved acoustics, a 7.1 surround sound system, refurbished seats, and a state-of-the-art projector. The goal is to preserve its university-based, public, and free-admission character while adapting it to contemporary audiovisual experiences.
The new phase officially began on September 19, 2026, with a screening of *Virus Tropical*, an animated film by Santiago Caicedo based on the graphic novel by Powerpaola.
There will be German, Palestinian, Caribbean, and other films
The reopening is accompanied by a program of events that will run over the coming months. On September 26 and 27, the German Film Festival will feature the retrospective “Cinema and Punk: Dialogues of Dissent,” dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the birth of punk.
A Palestinian film series featuring Watermelon Pictures is scheduled to begin on October 3, while “Archipiélago Fílmico,” a showcase dedicated to Caribbean cinema, will take place on October 3 and 4.
On October 4, *Volar y otros deseos* by Verónica Marín Cienfuegos will be screened as part of Cinema Queer México. Additionally, FICUNAM 16 will take place from November 5 to 15; the festival’s general program features more than 140 films.
Date: Screenings available starting in September 2026
Location: Casa del Lago UNAM, Chapultepec Forest
Showtimes: Vary by screening
Cost: Free admission
