AI Generated Summary
- As the investigation unfolds, both theatres say their primary concern remains the safety of patrons and staff — even as the closures mark a significant setback for the region’s vibrant South Asian filmgoing community.
- A popular independent theatre in Oakville has suspended all screenings of Indian films after being struck by two violent incidents within just over a week — one involving arson, and another a shooting.
- Police describe the suspect as a dark-skinned male with a heavy build, dressed in black clothing and wearing a black face mask.
A popular independent theatre in Oakville has suspended all screenings of Indian films after being struck by two violent incidents within just over a week — one involving arson, and another a shooting.
Two Attacks in a Week
The first attack occurred on the morning of September 25, when Film.ca Cinemas was targeted in an apparent arson attempt. Security footage released by Halton Regional Police shows two masked individuals dousing the theatre’s entrance with a flammable liquid before setting it ablaze. The fire, which broke out around 5:20 a.m., caused significant damage to the front doors but was contained before spreading further.
A week later, at approximately 1:50 a.m. on October 2, the same cinema was again attacked — this time by a gunman who fired multiple shots through the theatre’s front doors. Police describe the suspect as a dark-skinned male with a heavy build, dressed in black clothing and wearing a black face mask. No injuries were reported in either incident.
Authorities believe both attacks were targeted and connected to the theatre’s screening of South Asian films, though the motive remains unclear. Investigators are appealing to the public for information as no arrests have been made.
Theatre Forced to Pull Films
Film.ca Cinemas initially vowed not to yield to intimidation. In a video posted online, CEO Jeff Knoll declared, “We are going to play what we want to play, when we want to play it.”
However, on October 3, the theatre reversed course, announcing it would remove two Indian films — Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1 and They Call Him OG — from its lineup.
“Evidence seems to show that the exhibition of South Asian films has led to these incidents at our theatre and others across the Greater Toronto Area,” the theatre’s statement read. “While we do not wish to give in to threats, the situation has escalated. We must prioritize the safety of our guests and staff.”
As of Thursday, the theatre’s website no longer listed any South Asian titles in its schedule.
Other Theatres Take Precaution
The impact of the Oakville attacks has spread beyond Film.ca Cinemas. York Cinemas, another GTA theatre, has also suspended Indian film screenings “until further notice.”
⚠️ Attention! An Important Update from York Cinemas Management.#YorkCinemas #Update #Important pic.twitter.com/LGLSIKGdif
— York Cinemas (@yorkcinemas) October 2, 2025
“Due to recent incidents, we will not be screening Indian movies until further notice. This decision has been made with the safety of our employees and guests in mind,” the theatre said in a statement. Refunds for advance ticket purchases are being processed.
Community Shock and Ongoing Investigation
The attacks have rattled members of the local South Asian community, many of whom regularly attend screenings of Indian films in the region. Some have expressed concern that the violence could have broader cultural implications if theatres across the GTA follow suit.
Halton Regional Police continue to investigate the two incidents. Anyone with information is urged to contact the District Criminal Investigations Bureau or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
As the investigation unfolds, both theatres say their primary concern remains the safety of patrons and staff — even as the closures mark a significant setback for the region’s vibrant South Asian filmgoing community.
