Industry News
Short dispatches on Canadian cinema industry news, exhibitor deals, festival updates, and programming changes.
Cineplex Reports Q1 Attendance Up 11% Year-Over-Year
Canada's largest exhibitor reported first-quarter attendance of 16.3 million, up from 14.7 million in Q1 2025, driven by stronger spring blockbuster performance and increased VIP uptake in Toronto and Vancouver. Average ticket price rose to $13.42.
The Bloor Hot Docs Adds Second Screen
The beloved Toronto documentary cinema will add a second, smaller auditorium as part of a 2026 renovation. Programming director announced that the new screen will allow longer runs for festival documentaries that currently have to cycle out after a week.
Landmark Cinemas Completes Kelowna Refurbishment
All eight auditoriums at Landmark Cinemas Kelowna have been refitted with electric recliner seating. The theatre returns to full service April 26 with a weekend of screenings priced at $6 in celebration.
TIFF 2026 Opening Night Film Named
The Toronto International Film Festival has announced its 2026 opening-night gala selection. Screening details and full lineup will be released in mid-August. Ticket packages for members go on sale May 14.
Paradise Theatre Announces Summer Programme
The restored Bloorcourt movie palace has published its summer programme, featuring a Studio Ghibli retrospective, a weekend of Agnès Varda, and a midnight run of cult horror classics. Memberships go on sale with the new schedule.
IMAX with Laser Expands to Cineplex Scotiabank Chinook (Calgary)
The Calgary flagship will host the third IMAX with Laser auditorium in Canada, joining Scotiabank Theatre Toronto and Scotiabank Theatre Vancouver. The retrofit is expected to complete by early summer.
Canadian Theatrical Attendance 2025: Year in Review
Total Canadian theatrical attendance for 2025 reached 71.4 million, up from 66.1 million in 2024 — a 7.9% year-over-year increase. Top-grossing films were Dune: Part Two, Wicked, and Deadpool & Wolverine.