People rally to save long-standing movie theatre in Toronto
Published October 31, 2024 at 12:11 pm
A movie theatre that serves the west-end Toronto neighbourhood of Etobicoke (as well as people in east Mississauga) could close in the near future, and community members are doing what they can to save it.
Recently, Dr. Roberto Botelho, a professor of cell biology at Toronto Metropolitan University, launched a change.org petition to save the Cineplex Cinemas Queensway.
According to the petition, the movie theatre, located right off the Gardiner, could be demolished to allow for the construction of a proposed condo.
“I am a resident of Toronto, a beautiful city in my opinion with much to offer. However, it feels like our city’s entertainment options and spaces where people can connect and spend time are increasingly being replaced in favour of residential high-rises,” Botelho wrote in the petition.
“The sad part is that these high-rises are not even designed for families, but for investors–so it’s a lose-lose situation.”
The petition says the Cineplex is an affordable entertainment option for the south Etobicoke community, offering couples, teenagers, young families, seniors and even infants (the theatre hosts Stars & Strollers events) a place to gather and meet.
The theatre opened in 2001 and offers a VIP experience for movie-goers who want extra-comfy seats, more food options, and elevated service. According to Cinema Treasures, it has been one of the busiest theatres in Canada since its inception in the early 2000s.
The petition says the proposed development might not include recreational or entertainment spaces–something Botelho says the city needs.
“The purpose of this petition is not just to save Cineplex Cinemas Queensway, but also to send a message to city leaders that Toronto needs to prioritize making our city more livable,” Botelho wrote in the petition.
“They need to promote building activities that enhance the life quality of residents, rather than focusing exclusively on condos for investors. This is important for a vibrant and dynamic city like ours.”
The petition currently has over 10,000 signatures, with a goal of over 15,000.