Toronto: Revue Cinema Faces Eviction

The Revue Cinema, a cherished cultural landmark in Toronto, faces potential closure as the Revue Film Society seeks an injunction against eviction after their landlord refused to renew their lease. The theatre’s fate has sparked significant public and celebrity support to save the historic venue.

Danny and Leticia Mullin, owners of the theatre since 2007, allege that the Revue Film Society has failed to maintain necessary repairs at the designated heritage site. Danny Mullin expressed frustration, saying, “We want to get rid of the board, bring it back to the private sector. It’s very simple. Why do we need the board? They’ve never done nothing. Every time we sign a new lease, they never fulfill the lease. They’re supposed to do work, do the seats; they never do nothing.”

The Revue Film Society, operating the theatre as a non-profit organization for 17 years, contends that they have made substantial investments in the theatre’s infrastructure, including a digital projector, sound system, and point of sale systems. Last year, they agreed to a nearly 50% rent increase, raising their monthly rent to $15,000, in hopes of securing a lease renewal.

News of the potential closure triggered an immediate public response, with a petition to keep the theatre open garnering over 22,000 signatures. The campaign to save the Revue Cinema has also attracted attention from prominent figures in the film industry.

Oscar-winning Mexican director Guillermo del Toro, who has filmed several movies in Toronto, tweeted to Mayor Olivia Chow, urging her to intervene. “@MayorOliviaChow Can you help save the REVUE, one of Canada’s most beloved, non-profit, cultural landmarks? If not you, WHO can help? Or HOW can I help?” del Toro wrote, highlighting the theatre’s significance.

The Revue Cinema, located on Roncesvalles Avenue south of Dundas Street West, has been a staple of Toronto’s cultural scene since 1912. Its potential closure marks a significant loss for the community and the preservation of cultural heritage sites in the city.

As the Revue Film Society and the Mullins await the court’s decision on the injunction, the theatre’s supporters remain hopeful that a resolution will be found to preserve this historic cinema. The outpouring of public and celebrity support underscores the Revue Cinema’s importance as a cultural and community landmark.

The Revue Cinema’s eviction battle highlights the ongoing struggle to maintain and protect cultural heritage sites amid changing economic and property landscapes. With significant public backing and high-profile endorsements, there is a concerted effort to save this beloved Toronto institution