Toronto's Top Independent Movie Theatres
As the temperature drops and the city’s sidewalks get slick with ice, salt, and slush, the appeal of getting dressed up and heading out for a night on the town is acutely diminished. Next time you’re in the mood for something a little more exciting than Netflix and chill, but less extravagant than a three-course meal, grab your squad and head to one of these awesome theaters in Toronto.
1. Bloor Hot Docs Cinema
Cinema, Theater
Bloor Hot Docs Cinema
Since opening in 1913, this Annex staple has changed its name, ownership, and design a bunch of times, but has always managed to keep its edge. Originally named Madison Picture Palace, the theater set itself apart by showing discount movies that had already premiered. Since 2012, it has functioned as the official space for the Hot Docs Film Festival, during which it is customary to see the street lined with eager documentary film enthusiasts. If hard-hitting and honest biopics are your thing, catch the Rocky Horror Picture Show screening that has held a monthly slot for over 20 years. Expect to see the cast of Excited Mental State performing in front of the 1975 flick, while cult fans shout call-back lines and toss props around.
2. The Revue
Building, Theater
The Revue
From 1917 to 2006, this Roncesvalles gem was in the race for the country’s longest running theater but closed its doors when it went up for sale. They didn’t stay closed for long, though, as community residents and film connoisseurs quickly rallied together to revive The Revue. Forming the Revue Film Society (RFS), volunteers helped negotiate the sale of the building to a local couple. With the support and generosity of local businesses, the non-profit community group revamped the space and gave it a lasting neighborhood feel. Pop in for a taste of “Reel Diversity, Real Community” and watch anything from (almost) new releases to family flicks like Space Jam and even occasional screenings of movies you love to hate, hosted by Drunk Feminist Films.
400 Roncesvalles Avenue, Toronto, ON, Canada + 1 416 531 9959
3. The Royal
Cinema
5. TIFF Bell Lightbox
Cinema, Theater
6. Fox Theatre
Cinema
Fox Theatre
At the eastern end of the beaches is Toronto’s longest running cinema, The Fox. The old fashioned exterior is a welcome change from over-the-top, megaplex movie theaters. It staked a well-earned claim in the community after the original ownership fought hard for its inauguration, petitioning neighbors and asking for their support before opening. You can’t buy tickets online, so head to the box office half an hour before the movie starts to grab a good seat and some snacks. Memberships ($10) get movie goers a $6 special on Tuesdays, plus 10% off at the concession stand.
2236 Queen Street East, Toronto, ON, Canada + 1 416 691 7335
7. Humber Cinemas
Theater
Humber Cinemas
At the opposite end of the city in Bloor West Village is the independent Humber Cinemas. With well-worn carpets and balcony seating, this theater has a vintage vibe despite closures, renovations, and reopenings at various points in the last 17 years. What it lacks in big screens and super-loud sound, it makes up for in cotton candy. Plus, with more intimate screens and seating, you won’t be feverishly flinging your head around to see glimpses of scenes your peripheries can’t catch.
8. Carlton Cinema
Cinema, Movie Theater
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