Since cinemas are such a passion of mine, it was an absolute joy to research the book. One of the most delightful experiences was visiting Studio 28, Paris’s oldest cinema, where several scenes from Cinema Lumière are set. Nestling above the Montmartre vineyards, it opened in 1928 and still has the original light fittings designed by Jean Cocteau along with the piano, which was played during Charlie Chaplin’s films. With a secret little courtyard out back and an air of having slipped back in time, no wonder it was the cinema that the makers of Amèlie chose to feature in their film.

Studio 28, 10 Rue Tholoze, 75018 Paris — Studio 28, 10 Rue Tholoze, 75018 Paris