Historic Movie Theatre in Roncesvalles Could Close This Sunday

The Revue Cinema couldn’t secure a lease renewal on the designated heritage site

It’s a sad week for Torontonians. First the news of the (unjustified) demolition of the beloved Ontario Science Centre—both a Brutalist icon and an exceptional educational hub for Canadian youth, and now the city could be losing another treasured architectural landmark: the Revue Cinema. 

On June 27th, the Revue revealed the shocking news on social media. Unable to reach a compromise with their landlord, they were unable to secure a lease renewal – and could close as soon as this Sunday. “While we continue to attempt to negotiate in good faith with our landlord, we are unsure if we will be able to open past June 30. In the event of a disruption, ticket holders, event rentals and members will be reimbursed.”

A designated heritage site, the Revue was built in 1912. Serving the West End community for over a century, it’s the city’s oldest standing movie theatre—the loss of this local landmark will be a devastating hit for the Roncesvalles neighbourhood and the entire city.  

With its closure looming, the internet is in uproar. Many have enjoyed the delights of the Revue’s horror and cult-genre programming, indie film openings, or a simple movie night out with friends—not to mention the many film festivals, Q&As, panel discussions and other special events.

This situation exemplifies the ongoing failure to value local history and protect beloved architectural landmarks from powerful interests. Losing the Revue, especially on Canada Day weekend, would be a significant blow to Torontonians.