Canada's independent cinema chains are 'in crisis,' need more funding: study

A new study from Canada's independent cinema owners says their industry is "in crisis" and many theatres need increased public funding to stay afloat.

A new study from Canada's independent cinema owners says their industry is "in crisis" and many theatres need increased public funding to stay afloat.

The research from the Network of Independent Canadian Exhibitors released Tuesday said 60 per cent of independent cinema operators surveyed between December and February operated at a loss at the end of their most recent fiscal year.

About two-thirds of the 67 respondents reported that they need increased public funding in order to remain operational. The bulk estimated they would need about $50,000 in extra funding annually for three years to close the immediate gaps they face.

Sonya William, a director at NICE, said the research paints a picture of a "really stark" fiscal landscape, which stands to worsen if policy changes aren't made and funding doesn't pick up.

"We think it's a really important time for us to raise the alarm and to say please pay attention to what's happening with film exhibition in this country," she said.

NICE's research comes as the industry is recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, which temporarily closed theatres in many regions, and as a succession of arts organizations in Canada have lamented a lack of funding and a struggle to survive.

Last week, the president of Hot Docs, Canada's largest documentary film festival which runs a year-round cinema in Toronto, wrote a note to audiences saying its future is in jeopardy.