An Ontario theatre, Film.ca Cinemas, halted screenings of Indian films after facing two targeted attacks — an arson attempt and gunfire — within a week. Authorities suspect the violence is linked to the theatre’s programming of South Asian movies
Films.ca in Canada
A movie theatre in Ontario, Canada, has stopped screening Indian films after facing repeated attacks within a week. The authorities at the theatre have linked the incidents to their choice of showing South Asian movies. Film.ca Cinemas first came under attack on September 25 when two people attempted to set fire to the entrance of the cinema hall using red gas cans. According to reports, the blaze was contained to the exterior and did not spread inside the building, though it caused moderate damage.
Canadian theatre under attack for screening Indian films
Security footage showed a grey SUV circling the parking lot multiple times before a white vehicle arrived. Two individuals were then seen pouring flammable liquid and igniting the fire before fleeing the scene. The theatre was closed at the time, and no casualties were reported.
The official handle of the theatre also shared the CCTV footage, stating, “This is not the first time we’ve faced vandalism and threats tied to the screening of Indian films. While these repeated acts are troubling, they will never deter us from providing a safe and welcoming place for our community to enjoy cinema together.” Police described the suspects as white men wearing black clothing.
A week later, on Thursday, a second attack occurred when a person fired multiple gunshots through the theatre’s entrance door. Police described the suspect as a dark-skinned male with a heavy build, dressed in all black and wearing a black face mask. The attack also took place while the theatre was closed, and no injuries were reported.
The Halton Regional Police confirmed that both incidents were targeted and are under active investigation.
Theatre authority assure safety of patrons
Following the attacks, Film.ca Cinemas CEO Jeff Knoll addressed the suspected link to the theatre’s programming. In a video message, he said, “The other day, somebody tried to burn the theatre down in a dispute with respect to us playing South Asian films.”
Knoll assured people that the safety of their patrons is of utmost priority and that will be continued despite the violence. “We want our community to feel safe. We didn’t miss a single show, and we remain committed to serving our audience.”
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