I like the cinema/I like the movies/I like films

[heidita]

I think I am translating directly and have definitely been living here too long:

I like the cinema.

I like the movies.

I think both mean you like going to the cinema and watch movies. I wonder.....I am not sure anymore "I like the cinema" is the exact wording we use in Spanish.

Whereas: I like movies/films: you like watching films, anywhere, DVD, Video, cinema...


Thanks for your input.

[rj1948]

Cinema is a place where movies are screened.

[David L.]

Yes - whether a person says 'movies' or 'cinema', 'I like the cinema' means going into the theatre and watching movies there.

However, "I like French cinema' means they like films made in France and as shown in regular cinemas in France.)