Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema

We loved the visit during the curious minds festivals. I see why people speak so warmly about the volunteers. Such lovely persons and so helpful. We did not try the food. However ,washrooms and cinema was quite clean. I feel that a photoshoot can be had here. The charm of it all!

Great popcorn and the staff are very friendly. Love the gender neutral washrooms. Seating is good anywhere you sit. Saw Pitch. Diane Matheson and Christine Sinclair were present. Great time!

Worth seeing at least once. Believe built originally in 1905, includes balcony seating, and not the big box experience we've again grown out of since streaming.

Was able to see the inner workings of this theater through the Open Door event that happened in May and it was fantastic spoke to the staff learned about the equipment and process and the history of the theater will definitely recommend and revisit again for any documentaries coming up in the next few weeks and onward

There is a high stage underneath the screen. This means that the bottom of the screen is high off the ground. The result is that all of the seats on the main floor feel like they are in the first few rows of a "regular" theatre. The balcony is where I prefer to sit.

I absolutely enjoyed catching the Jeff Buckley documentary at Hot Docs. The staff were super friendly, great selection of snacks, and overall a good experience. However, the screen is too damn high! And I noticed people in my aisle were also hurting their neck looking at the screen, not just me. I’d love to return as they have a good selection of movies, but I’ll have to make sure to seat at the very back.

Love this theatre. Beautiful space. No bad seats. Staff are always friendly and welcoming. Great programming. Lots to eat in the area and theatre. Highly recommend. Looking forward to our next visit. Limited parking in area, best to use public transit.

Great theatre showing documentaries. Comfortable seats and good sound system. Very friendly staff at the box office and the concession stand. Their website makes it easy to buy tickets and select your seat online as well.

Going here Always results in mind getting an education and expansion of world view. Today was no different. The hot docs festival wrapped up. 'Yintah' won the award for Best Canadian Documentary. What is about? Read synopsis below: The Wet'suwet'en have never ceded their territory, governing the Yintah (land) with their own laws for centuries--a fact conveniently overlooked by the Canadian government and several large fossil fuel companies, which continue to trespass, invade and occupy Wet'suwet'en lands to construct highly polluting natural-gas pipelines that stretch across several bodies of water, directly impacting the communities that surround them. Chronicling a decade of growing resistance to the forces that are hell-bent on exploiting their land, Yintah follows Howilhkat Freda Huson and Sleydo' Molly Wickham on the frontlines of this fight. When their movement reaches a critical juncture in early 2020, several nations and their allies across Canada stand up in protest, defending land checkpoints and blocking train service across major cities, in an incredible display of solidarity. Yintah is an urgent call to climate justice action and an enraging indictment of the Canadian government and its partnerships as they continue to violate First Nations sovereignty in the name of profit.

it's still the BLOOR CINEMA to me... so many great films and festivals in the 80/90's. Happy to support, got back to a membership in November! the programming is simply atrocious... i'm not saying it has to be ERASERHEAD and EL TOPO every weekend... but how about something LIGHT or FUN once a month or so....? docs on Afghans, burger place in alberta, and stuff you'll never see or hear of. i've been once, i wanna go sooner than later, but i just saw the next two months (up until mid march...), good lord that's a collection of BLEAK.. popcorn is very good! and u can get beer now!!! :). love the balconies (gotta mention that!)

This used to be the Bloor Cinema and I would probably give it the 2.5 rating - I just didn't think it was worth a 3. We came here for the TJFF. The movie was great and sound good but OMG the seats were tortuous. If you are tall at all, this cinema is not for you. After 2-1/2 hours in a small seat with not great leg room, my hubby had to pry me out of the seat. I am still feeling the effects today. So do enjoy, but be aware of this limitation.

Went here with my girlfriend to watch The Rescue (about the cave divers who rescued the 12 boys + coach trapped in a cave for over two weeks). The cinema has a lot of cool and different documentaries that you wouldn't find anywhere else (and I found that a lot of them were more biographical in nature, rather than trying to advance some viewpoint, at least when I looked at the showings). The Hot Docs Cinema is definitely a one of a kind theatre in Toronto and definitely worth going to if you enjoy documentaries. I would recommend sitting on the balcony because the screen is actually a couple feet off the floor, so even when sitting on ground floor you are looking up a little bit. The cinema is definitely a bit on the older side so don't go in expecting cineplex-level seating and shine to the theatre (not that cineplex is anything marvelous either). I found the popcorn to be very cheap there, though not as fresh. I think it was $6 for a large? They also have a filtered water fountain so you can bring your own water bottle there and refill it, which is very nice.

Not acceptable standards. The greeters are poorly informed about aspects of the website concerning correct information .The greeters were poorly dressed in regards to hygiene, which makes me think the theatre would be sub par.They were also rude and indifferent to questions that I asked and just passed on incorrect information and seemed to make up the information concerning my issues. I remained polite during this entire incident.I was given 6 guest tickets and was still asked to buy tickets. I would rather pay for profit theatres because at least things are done properly. Maybe Ted Rogers Hot Docs Cinema exists for certain reasons (historically) but some things just need to end especially with horrible content and atmosphere.

I have a gold membership for this very special cinema .When I was offered an opportunity to upgrade my senior silver to gold at a discount I jumped at it.i live fairly close but the Bathurst subway stop is three Minutes away so it's very very handy. I am able to go unlimited times including unlimited giant size buttered popcorn and I'm there at least four times a week now.They screen award winning documentaries and have classes and book launches and fundraisers every night of the week .theres simply not enough positive to say about the staff ,cleanliness,quality,location,and how it makes me feel there.i feel very very comfortable

This is just one theater showing room. The quality of seats are okay. I recommend the second viewing level. Go upstairs. Go across the street to Eva's chimneys for a cool dessert after. I'm very disappointed at the selection in films at times. They had Step Up with Julia Stiles showing once for God's sake. How embarrassing!

Quick tips: - First floor seating, middle to back rows, you'll get the best view. When you're upstairs, people ahead will block the bottom of the screen (blocking subtitles). THIS IS BAD!! I missed all the subtitles for Last Day In Vietnam. First floor seating, you're LOOKING UP to the screen. You won't block anyone, and no one will block you. - Q&A is a lot of fun!!! This is when the film features an evening where the filmmaker, director, god daughter (Keep On Keepin' On) etc....will be up on stage to share their experiences as well as to answer personal questions. Try to make it out!! They fly all the way to Toronto specifically to watch the film with us and talk to us about their work. Who wants to come to Toronto, seriously right? Even if questions or the audience are lousy (I can bitch about this all day), I always learn something new at these Q&A events. ==========WHY HERE?? My friend is really, really into TIFF that he takes a week off his actual job just to work at the TIFF Festival and watch films all day. Hot Docs Festival is similar, except it's all documentaries. Clearly we are not similar. Bloor Hot Docs Cinema shows a new list of documentaries every two weeks. If you missed one, you won't see it again until Bloor Cinema decides to include it again. So it cycles through old and new documentaries twice a month. I don't always find something interesting to watch.... but somehow I end up coming to this theatre at least twice a month. However I do have: ==========FILM SUBSCRIPTIONS There are a two types of packages (ticket bundles) you can get: - Doc Soup subscription, a part of Hot Docs Festival (I paid $211.79 with tax for 2014-2015 subscription) - Every first week of the month from Oct-April, they feature a documentary from last year's Hot Docs Festival, films that made Sundance's selection, films that made SXSW selection, etc.. Every screening for Doc Soup, somebody who worked on the film (director, producer, cameraman) will be up on stage for post-film Q&A. You'll also get 10 tickets for the next Hot Docs Festival. So this package will work out to be $12.46 per ticket (regularly they'd be $13.27+HST+$1 non-member fee). DOWNSIDE: it's available only months before October. AND if you've already watched a lot of docs, you'll probably have seen the films they show. You won't know the film they choose to show until three weeks before the date. - Bloor Cinema memberships, NOT Hot Docs Festival, but with the theatre itself - different pricing levels starting at $39. You'll get some free tickets, a discount on all future tickets (as well as discount for the Hot Docs Festival), some popcorn coupons, and you won't have to pay the $1 (per ticket) fee. I hate this fee. Technically you'll save at least $3 per ticket. That is, if you go often enough (like I do). With this, you do not get 10 advance tickets for the Hot Docs Festival (like above) but there is no deadline when buying Bloor Cinema membership. You can buy a membership any time. AND YES, you can buy single tickets to ANY film ANY time -you don't need a subscription to watch Doc Soup films. ==========THE CROWD I come alone for Doc Soup. It's sort of my "getaway from all life's stress" evening. I never ask questions during Q&A, but I get to sit and watch quietly. I have also fallen asleep during the Q&A (some are seriously boring) and during the movies (some are seriously boring). The people here range depending on the film, of course. With the Doc Soup subscription screening (first Wednesday and Thursday of the month), majority of people are gray hair, healthy folks. Probably retired, very friendly, and they have this "I love my life" look on their face. During regular screenings, people are couples, younger, sometimes louder. For the Madonna Truth or Dare documentary, there was a "party" that started an hour before the movie. There was a DJ, beer special, and people brought their drinks to their seats. We had the winner of a small voguing competition (and two people from the audience) come up on stage to dance (and vogue). The crowd here was a little tipsy but made the movie so much fun. (I also had two pints before coming here, woohoo!) Doc Soup days: 100% full Regular days: 10-50% full ==========THE THEATRE... The lobby is so small. The box office is also super small and right at the door. It's a little messy when there are LOTS of people. Washrooms are upstairs. We don't get the obnoxious crowd for documentaries, so the theatre stays clean and quiet. People don't push each other when getting in/out. Staff are always around to find you a seat when the theatre gets full. I think my favourite guy is the man facilitating the Q&A at the screening of Point And Shoot. He directed the conversation so well and he asked amazing questions. Thank you, favourite guy!

Came here on Friday to watch a podcast taping for the Hot Docs Podfest. The theatre wasn't sold out, so we had our first pick of seats (score!) and sat closer to the front screen. What I really love about this theatre is that it brings in a diversity of showings and really works with its community. I've seen podcast tapings here, lectures, Just for Laughs discussions and films. This theatre is just that good, plus it is super close to the Bathurst subway station. Another great thing about the theatre: the concessions! You can a full bottle of wine here (!!!) to go alongside your popcorn. Not that I have ever done it, but I mean: choices are great to have. One of the things I really dislike about the theatre is that because it's old, the seats aren't great for fat folks. I'm a size 18/20 and have a hard time fitting into the seats. I cannot imagine what it would be like for folks larger than myself. Anyways, this venue is one of the best in the city and more people should support it. Long live the Hot Docs Bloor Cinema!

@HotDocsCinema #YELPTO #TIFFVENUE #HOTDOCS #TORONTO Hot Docs is quite the landmark in Toronto - shabbier than most theatres though (although, they were undergoing renovations the last time I was there), it invites quite the crowd. If your screening is at Hot Docs for TIFF, be prepared for a LONG line up. I am grateful to the Yelpers who left a super useful tip - get first floor seating (as people rush to the balcony in hopes of better seats), you'll truly get the best view. I've sat through an entire Chinese movie in the upstairs seating, without understanding it because the bottom of the screen (subtitles) were blocked. Hot Docs wins because of the audience it creates - it's quite the atmosphere. Only film lovers are known to frequent this place, and if you're one of them, you're amongst your crowd. I'll be back.

A cinema that shows only documentaries? What's not to like (other than the seats)!! Hugely impressed with the fact that a cinema can exist today while resisting the urge to show star wars. We watched Ramen Heads - a documentary about a few super popular ramen shops in Japan. It was good fun, watching with a small set of people in a huge cinema hall. I hear they get some grant money and an endowment. But be that as it may, I have great respect for the fact that this establishment exists today. We need some of this in NYC!

Watched Free Solo - but the other offerings including lectures and festivals make this a must not miss Toronto spot.

This is a wonderful, wonderful cinema. An absolute pleasure. Gone are the nostalgic days of basement Cinema Du Parc in Montreal ( I love you. tear...) and here are the days of upstairs prime viewing (rows 1-3 on the balcony level are my favourite) at Bloor Hot Docs Cinema. Although I have been going here for the Hot Docs fest for years, since I moved back to Toronto in the later part of the first aughts decade, I have visited this theatre for many more reasons: Doc Soup screenings, late-night screenings, Oscar's night, and just particular films that catch my eye. The relatively recent renovations are fantastic. I'm so grateful to have this theatre in my little universe. What about the concession stand? Don't expect this to be a super speedy process (there are only a few people working here) but the selection is great and the folks working the stand are typically helpful and friendly. Expect treats like organic, fair-trade chocolates, a decent selection of beer, wine and spirits, booze and popcorn combos (...heaven?!), date-night combos, coffee and more. In addition to actual date nights, try taking yourself out on a solo hot (doc) date! Very much endorsed by nerdy Natty.

WOW RENOVATIONS! Bloor Cinema has had some major renovations, and it looks SO good! While the upstairs balcony seems pretty much the same, the downstairs has new seats, and a beautiful new concession stand - but still has it's classic theatre style which really adds a lot of charm. The best party of the cinema - THE GLASS WALL! This means that if you're about to watch a movie, but grabbing concessions, you could still see through to the movie screen as you wait in line - so you would know when the trailers started/ended though you couldn't hear anything. It's such a little change but makes a huge difference! I'm not sure if they updated the screen, but it is very high quality. While I wouldn't choose this theatre for major blockbuster movies, it is absolutely perfect for Hot Docs, TAD, and other film festivals. It really puts you in the mood to watch independent / classic / documentary movies. I'm serious.

The newly renovated Bloor is over the top wonderful! Plus, it's dedicated to all documentaries, all the time. The only cinema of its kind in the world. Amazing! From the moment you walk in you, you'll be impressed by how gorgeous the space is. Hard to believe the venue is almost 100 years old. Seats still have that wonky recline, but they've all been re-upholstered and comfy. Balcony seats are okay, but the comfy seats are definitely on the floor. Washrooms are on the second floor and went from ghetto to modern and expanded with more stalls and sinks. Snacks are deal and they use real butter on their popcorn. You might as well get a beer as well, they are licensed. Awesome! Follow them on twitter here @TheBloorCinema

I'm actually impressed, very impressed. It's like my grandpa resurrected from the grave and then had botox. This newly renovated venue sure looks more pleasing to documentary lovers, even to those who pretend that they are there for content and not for the venue. You know who you are! Yes, it's you! There is an optional membership fee of $35, just ask the ultra sad curly-haired ticket staff and she will unwillingly help you. Give her a flower and kiss too. Might work. For $35, your membership gives you four pop corns and discounts on shows. It's worth it. And feel good for supporting the arts and the documentary family. The best seating is upstairs where you can see the entire screen. There is always a bit more privacy lovers! I was reluctant to get the membership but I'm glad that I did. Come and be informed of social issues and be the walking Wikipedia in parties. Just be prepared to get your car tire slashed. You gotta love the walking and talking Wikipedias.See you in the movie!

I hadn't been here since the renovation--wow! What a change! I absolutely love the glass wall--it lets people who arrive late or sneak out for snacks still watch the movie, so they don't miss anything while they're waiting. Seats are cushy, snacks are reasonably priced, and the lineup of movies is awesome--lots of documentaries and older cult films. I'm glad there's a place like this in Toronto.

Just last night I went to see the Rocky Horror Picture Show at The Bloor Hot Docs. The shadow cast had much to be desired. A 300lb 45-50 yr old woman does not make for a good Columbia. I found the timing to be off and the general overall ambiance of the house and crew to be sub-par and unprofessional. I found it to be run by a bunch of rude dilettantes who made mediocrity seem sublime. I would definitely not suggest wasting your precious and time and money on this production.

Was there earlier this week for the Ryerson's Documentary Media Festival. First and foremost, I was a fan of the old Bloor Cinema, if only because I like to support my local cinema. It was great due to its history, inexpensive and generally off the wall movie selections, like documentaries, classics and foreign films. Just like the Carlton, except with just one screen and bigger... okay so not so alike at all. But still an enjoyable night out. Then HotDocs bought them and closed it down for renovations for about 3-4 months. That kind of sucked specially if you had a membership which I had for a few years. But no worries, the Bloor Cinema has reopened and I am happy to report the renovations are quite worth it! The old, charming but creaky seats have been replaced with larger, more comfortable bum-cushions. There is a new paint show throughout and they have demolish a wall right through to the front so you can see right into the theatre when you walk in. Cool. The second floor remains almost the same as before with a few posters showing the history and the shots of the renovation. I am happy to see the Bloor Cinema was given a breath of fresh air although there are a lot of remnants of the old if you know what to look for but still, a worth addition to the Annex and still a enjoyable night out. One of my favourite real cinemas in Toronto.

I love the Bloor Cinema. They offer an excellent lineup of interesting, educational and funny documentary films as one of the only documentary-focused cinemas in the world. Every time I go I see a preview for another movie I want to come back for. Seats are plush and comfortable, although the seats on the main floor seem a bit close to the large screen. There's also an upper level, although I have yet to venture up there yet. The concession stand is cash only, but you can pay at the ticket counter with debit or credit and they will give you a voucher to get your popcorn and drinks. Not only do they offer beer and wine, they also have jugs of water where you can get a cup of H2O to drink fo' free. Membership (~$30/year) also offers a host of benefits including discounts on tickets and popcorn and two free tickets during the month of your birthday. Support indie theatres and catch your next movie at the Bloor!

I'm a firm believer that you can gauge the worth of a city based on its number of independent cinemas there are. With that number shrinking in Toronto all the time, it's good to see the Bloor Cinema alive and thriving in the Annex. The Bloor has a rich history in the city, having celebrated its Centennial in 2005. The staff at the Bloor are people who love film with a passion, and it shows. Every day of the week features multiple screenings across genres, periods and from around the globe. It's no wonder that so many of Toronto's amazing small film festivals choose the Bloor as their main theater and home base. Having worked for some of these festivals I consider the Bloor to be like a home away from home. With its classic movie palace interior, large stage, upstairs lounge area along with balcony seating, the Bloor offers the classic movie experience. The concessions area isn't some monstrosity of neon corporate fast food chains, but a simple booth with a wealth of candy options, along with popcorn and sodas. The theater's staff is friendly and informative about the schedule and about film in general. And, if you're not a jerk about it, they will let you bring in outside items like coffee from Starbucks (within reason of course). The laid-back atmosphere leads to a pretty great movie experience. And since so many cineastes love the Bloor, you can often find a clutch of people milling upstairs near the washrooms or outside smoking, discussing the movie they just saw or film in general. The Bloor is in the "middle of the universe" aka Bloor/Bathurst, pick up a schedule in front of the cinema, in your local alternative weekly or on their website. Pros: great film selection, supports independent film as well as foreign, classic and second-run films, amazing film festival screenings, lovely staff. Cons: Standing in long festival lines out front all but guarantees your hair will smell like Ghazale's famous shawarma, the exhaust fan from which blows out directly in front of the theater. The PDF of the schedule has zero navigation options, sometimes they show a movie I really love at the early showing when I'm still at work :( Check that schedule, kids.

As I ride my bike in to work throughout the summer, my favourite part is looking up at Bloor Cinema's old marquee that's changed every night, so that even at 5:30am I know what I could expect from a day at the movies. I know it's old fashioned but the building is over 100 years old! The seats aren't the comfiest, but you're not being charged the hefty prices of a multiplex. When you come to a cinema like this you can expect a few things. For starters, you aren't going to find some jackass 14 year old checking out his new ring tune during the movie. The people are genuinely interested in what's on the screen because they've made a point to see it at the Bloor Cinema. Original Reels. This isn't a run down theatre playing DVDs on a screen projector. No the owners love film, and so, they've sought out the original reels to classic films that genuine audiences love and want to enjoy again, with the same classic feel! I will never forget the first time I stepped foot into this timeless theatre. It was to see my favourite movie of all time, Jaws. I sat down anxiously waiting the matinee showing of the first ever blockbuster. I'd never seen it on the screen before, and I was so excited that I think I may have scared a few girls down wind from us. But I didn't care, I was too excited to! The lights dimmed to a 1/2 packed house and the film started immediately. It was vintage all the way, packed full of streaks, a sepia film stock & those cigarette burns Tyler Durdan made mention to in that popular chrome magnum flick. Now I must have seen Jaws 30 times in my entire life, but watching it on a big screen was like seeing it for the first time again. The audience laughed at all the right parts, jokes that were still funny to me. And when the film finished an audience clapped. When was the last time you saw a movie and a theatre did that? I'll tell you I visit a tonne of movies every month, and it's very rare. But that's what you get when you come to Bloor Cinema. The theatre may not be modern, the aisles may be sticky and the chairs are a little stiff, but those are minor details when dealing with the real life movie magic this venue has to offer.

Great place to catch a documentary :) sometimes hard to find seats depending how popular the film is. They have an awesome student deals with a couple of free tickets and popcorn

I don't frequent the Bloor Cinema outside festivals such as hot docs or Toronto After Dark too much, but each time I come here I'm always treated to a great atmosphere. Anyone that's been to a Midnight Madness screening at tiff would love it here (although it makes sense to say anyone that's been here would have fun at a tiff MM screening). You know that you're going to watch a movie amongst other like minded fans resulting in a fun movie watching experience. The actual building while old definitely has it's charm, but I highly doubt I would ever come in here to watch a recent movie I could watch at a better quality at a cineplex or amc location. But they do have a very reasonably priced concession stand with popcorn, pop and candy. But they are undergoing renovations right now so hopefully they get a bit more oomph in their sound and picture quality and while seats are not uncomfortable maybe a little bit of new paint or something would definitely help. Overall for the right movie this is a great venue but for the majority of the year this is not within my movie watching radar.

The Bloor Cinema in Toronto falls into the categori of many of my favorite movie theaters; it's an older movie theater with a lot of charm to it even if it isn't the most up-to-date mega multiplex. It hosts a lot of great repertory screenings and makes an amazing venue to view classics like Mario Bava's Black Sunday with Barbara Steele, and it is also a great place to see retrospectives with filmmakers and actors. I've been to the Bloor a few times during Fan Expo Canada before the Toronto International Film Festival and it has a real character to it. Its ina funky neighborhood with lots of hip shops and sushi and meditteranan food around with a gastropub across the street, so its a nice place to spend the night out. They do a lot of repertory programming which is fun, including screenings of classic horror films by the locally based horror magazine Rue Morgue. I saw a lively Q and A here with actor Udo Kier that turned pretty raucous, but it was a great experience overall and I definitely recommend checking the venue out if you are in Toronto.

Fell right in love with this place as soon as I walked in. It felt like I stepped into another decade, and instead of the flashing lights hoards of people I usually experience at Cineplex, it was dim and quiet, really mellow. The lower seats are actually comfy, and the size of the screen and sound of the movie was a nice change of pace. I want to mention the ladies bathroom, because this really struck me. When you walk in, there's a large room with countertops and mirrors and door to the side leading to the stalls and sinks. I don't have to take up sink space to fix my hair/makeup! Such a simple thing, but it made my day. I hope the renovations don't turn this place into another Silvercity, but instead restore some of that retromod glam I'm sure it once had.

The Bloor Cinema is simply an institution of my Toronto experience. I love seeing its marquee as I walk along Bloor and I've had many lovely cinematic experiences here. I love everything about it. I'm not an out and out cinephile but the Bloor always has a great repertoire for the casual cinema goer and the more serious crowd. Their website is comprehensible and their tastes eclectic, plus they host the shadow casts for "Rocky Horro Picture Show" and "Repo! The Genetic Opera." On occasion Bloor has events, too, which so far have been a lot of fun. Last autumn they turned the place into a dance party that let people dance on stage while showing bizarre films in the back. It was a fundraiser for the place, I think, but also a good idea. They also showed Obama's inauguration. Considering the magnitude of the event, Bloor simply had to open its doors to have a successful time. You'll most likely wind up at Bloor for a film festival, though. They host 'em all. And you should know that there are no previews when they screen films. This means when a film starts at 7, it STARTS at 7. Be there on time! My faaavourite part of Bloor is that it's vintage and old timey. One screen, big comfy seats, a ticket booth outside, lights, camera, action. I love it. P.S. They filmed "Being Erica" here!

the nostalgia of this place is fantastic, being a staple for a couple of generations has really made this place timeless. came here of a documentary and was quite surprised to be able to purchase alcohol with my movie, I'm in love with how this place looks both on the inside and the outside, which both parts really tie into the charm as others have stated. the sound system is really good, and the seating is very comfortable, and organized in such a way where literally no one can block you're view sitting down. i wish more movies were shown here. will defiantly be back

I absolutely love this cinema! I went for the first time to watch Citizen Koch and had a great experience. The cinema is very large with a balcony, and the screen is massive. Staff is very friendly and the volunteers are sweet. I can't wait to go back!

Indeed, Toronto affords you different movie-going experiences. Going to the larger first-run theatres, you are afforded the opportunity to queue up at a kiosk to order your tickets, conveniently (read: "do your own up-sale") pre-order your snack options, sit in a close-to-empty theatre and hope that this Ben Stiller movie doesn't suck as much as the last Ben Stiller movie but realize that thirteen minutes in, the dictionary is now offered a new level of definition for the word "suck". If you don't fancy such an experience, rep theatres in Toronto are the way to go, and the Bloor is one of the best ones to go to. Found in the Annex, and thus afforded many places to visit before and after the film for dinner, drink, what have you. Add to this that it's right on Bloor steps away from the Bathurst subway station, so you've no excuse not to go. This is an old-school movie theatre with old school classics being shown. They do their best to rotate into the repertory roster films that are classics, new and old, so you're able to go see Casablanca in a full-screen cinematic experience as well as some just off first run decent movies. The seating is a throwback to the days of old, so you run the risk of having a 6'2" female volleyball player with a large plumed bonnet sitting in front of you, but that's part of the old school feel, innit? Oh, and the popcorn is dandy as well.

The Hot Docs theatre is one of the few single screen cinemas left in Toronto. While the selection of films is firmly rooted in documentary film, if you can find a film that you are interested in seeing, it's well worth going to this theatre to see it. The seats are really comfortable, the snack bar has a good, unique selection of snacks, as well as a wide selection of alcohols and very importantly, yhe popcorn is high quality for an independent theatre (in fact I kind of like it better than Cineplex). The neighbourhood had a lot of great little restaurants to get a bite at before or after the film and the Bathurst subway station is right around the corner.

The Bloor Cinema is the best theatre in the city bar none. Yes it's old. Yes it's a bit run down. But that's all part of its charm. There is nothing like going to see old movies on film in an old theatre. They show everything under the sun from new movies on their second run to old black and white classics, to independent films. You can go see Bogey one night, then Indiana Jones another, then Birdemic another, then something brand new the next. To say the selection is eclectic would be an understatement. And the price is unbeatable. $7 to get in. $10 for double bills. It's great. Where else can you go and see Jurassic Park and Jaws back to back on original film on the big screen for 10 bucks? Then to top it all off, they have fountain Dr. Pepper and their snacks and drinks are significantly cheaper than what you pay at big theatres. If I could give this place a rating higher than 5, I would. It's fantastic.

bloor cinema seems to be one of the last few testaments to the huge movie theatres a whole whack of folks my age and my parents age and probably their parents grew up with and enjoyed. there might be another couple of theatres in all of toronto that have a balcony. the building its in has been around for about 100 years and at one time inside it must have been quite elegant. youd think that there would have been stage shows there once, as the theatre itself seems akin to a proper broadway size theatre. ive both seen and hosted film screenings there and seen it bubbling to capacity, which of course always makes a moviegoing experience that much more exciting (so long as there are no talkers). the tickets are cheap, the festivals are fun, the movies are a good mix of second run flicks and much older ones. if your vision is limited to the blockbuster movie theatre, dont come here as you might be disappointed - theres no tiered seating or hoohaa.

I will occasionally drop into the Bloor to catch second-run big releases, but most of what I like to see there are special screenings, docos, small festivals and one-off events. Even though they do have a portion of their schedule for the second-run stuff, there's always a reasonable variety of retro screenings, themed programs and other stuff to keep the mix entertaining and to keep me going back. Physically, the Bloor cinema has its charm, but is a little run down. I suppose this comes with the territory of rep cinemas, so if you can bear with some squeaky chairs and worn fixtures and look past it to the atmosphere, then it's a-ok. Ticket prices are reasonable, especially if you make sure to keep a 'membership' card throughout the year; concession stand has a decent variety, but usually the lineup and prices aren't so worth it to me. While the Bloor isn't my go-to cinema just for the sake of heading to see a flick, I do keep an eye out for what's going on each month and always enjoy my visits.

Bloor Cinema is awesome because: a) It looks & feels like those old movie theatres that I never had the pleasure of seeing. They have balcony seating and old squeaky seats and a stage, which makes for a great movie-watching experience. b) They play all sorts of independent, new and old movies that you won't find being screened anywhere else. They were the only theatre in the city that played Repo! The Genetic Opera but I missed it because it only played for 2 or 3 days. c) They play Rocky Horror Picture Show with a live cast allll the time. Obviously Halloween is the busiest day, with line-ups around the block, but it's a fun time. And what other theatre in this city will let you throw toast at the screen?

The Bloor Cinema is probably the only independent theatre left in the city. That's not a fact, just an observation. They feature tons of foreign and independent films and they're one of the only theatres in the city that still sells memberships and offers a cheaper adult ticket. They have horror movie marathons and quirky festivals going through all the time. It's worth looking into if you're a true movie buff, or if you're just nostalgic for the days when theatres seemed like places to experience movies more than strip malls that show blockbuster films.

My favourite second run in Toronto, the Bloor has somehow survived where many other of its kind have fallen apart. A Bloor St fixture for many, many years, this movie theatre constantly keeps its lineup fresh, often mixing recent releases with classics. I've been lucky enough to catch a few of the original Indiana Jones films, as well as some Star Trek classics - basically the stuff you don't see on the big screen anywhere. Lately, the Bloor has been renting its space out a lot. While it's not rented as often as the Royal on College, I've definitely been noticing the monthly schedule (available online and in print at the theatre) having more and more highlighted days, pointing out that this is a day/weekend/week where the theatre will be playing films from a small film festival you've never heard of, or from a school or some other private function. Personally, I find this results in me wanting to see less films here, but I guess they've got to pay the bills somehow.

Not the best/most-up-to-date place in Toronto. Actually has a very vintage feeling to it which is nice. Comes with a stage and balcony. The screen isn't wide screen like those of the ones found in most cinemas nowadays. But always a great experience. Maybe it's the events I go there for but I have never had a bad experience at Bloor Cinemas. My biggest complain would be that when the place is filled with people, they should turn the AC on or something cause its like a sauna in there. Went to Toronto After Dark film festival this year. Had an absolute blast! Also, Bloor Cinemas is where Pure Pwnage always hosts their episode screenings. Have never been let down. Always a super fun time. R.I.P. T-Bag

Best place to see a fantastic documentary. Been a member several years now, and been attending Hot Docs festival for years. Such great quality of films. Gem of the Annex! Popcorn is a bit salty is my only negative comment.

They did such a lovely job with their renos but kept the old building charm which I like. Plus you can drink booze at your seat. And the popcorn is cheap. So is their membership. And the docs are FANTASTIC. Service is even better! Seats are comfy but are small and squishy so if you're tall or "big boned" you may struggle a bit. Other than that, the place rocks. :)

"Vintage" is a nice way of describing this place. If by "vintage" you mean old, musty-smelling, and downright grimy, then yes. It is really, really vintage. Movies at the B.C. always keep my on the edge of my seat, primarily because the seat is so uncomfortable that I suspect it was recycled from the tilt-a-whirl that was part of the rickety, held-together-with-spit-and-chewing-gum county fair I attended every summer as a kid, a seat that was invariably repaired with duct tape and invariably bruised my ass due to only a thin strip of vinyl between me and the rusted (squeaky) springs. However, like the tilt-a-whirl, I keep coming back for more. I patronize this theatre because I am cheap and so is the Bloor Cinema. And somehow, it attracts good indie films, throwbacks, and festivals. I can seldom resist His Girl Friday on the big screen. Oh, and they let you bring in whatever food and drink you want. Still, and maybe I'm too attached to cleanliness and comfort, but if this place wasn't within walking distance of my front door I wouldn't bother. Now, if they started showing sing-along musicals I might change my tune.

This is a lovely location to go and see movies. It has a very classic look to it and the revamp they have done for it really shows! I love the old vibe and cozy sofa seats to sit and relax to enjoy a film. They also always have good movie documentaries playing here and Tiff movies to select from.

This is the best place to see hot documentaries. It's a much loved venue and seethes it like some living being. It's not unusual to see a lineup go out the door, down Bloor St. and around the corner half way down the block when a smash hit is being shown. There's a slick facade above the door and a lobby meant for events with space to welcome you. Right at front is the snack bar that sells craft beer too. The balcony is great with its straight on sight lines, and with the slightly elevated screen allowing room for guest speakers just below it, the main floor area has you looking slightly up so keep that in mind if you prefer to look downward when watching a movie. The sound system is very sweet, with natural sounding bass and way less distortion compared to a typical theatre system. We saw 'Amy' and the jazz segments were well imaged throughout the space. Spellbinding audio! Get more out of life, and see a documentary.

I love the Bloor and wish I could make it to more showings, more often, but their wonky movie times make it difficult! On the plus side, when I actually manage to find a movie I want to see there at a time that I'm not at work, it makes for a whole event, usually with a group of people. The admission charges are incredibly reasonable and the popcorn is 20 times better than the stuff you'll find at the bigger theatres. That taste is the difference the love of a small theatre will make.

Been going to Bloor Cinema for years (Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema). It is an amazing place. Their membership cards are awesome value. I have the gold card and get in to any film free + free popcorn. I also can do the Curious Minds free, etc. Signing up for the Monthly Doc Soup is also a great way to get a date in the calendar to look forward to each month that opens your mind via documentaries on diverse and important topics. This is literally my favourite place in Toronto (other than the Humane Society!) And next door is Gazelle. A great restaurant with fresh food to eat after your film!

I love the Bloor because it has so many things!!! They play awesome non-hollywood type films, there are always political type films (Cinema Politica for example), then fun events like Rocky Horror Picture Show. The renovation a couple years ago really revamped this place and it looks really great. Has a mix of an old cinema and new cinema feel. It's such a good cinema, their events are great, too.

Back in the day... when it was a chain revue cinema and cheap for $5 per year per membership... $8 or so for a show... I'd go with Brab... and see a flick.. Thanks Hon. Andrew (c) Copyright 2017. Andrew M. Walduck. Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.

We came here at the recommendation of our landlord one Sunday only to discover they were playing Alien 1 and 2 back to back. Having never seen either (I know, I know) we decided to buy a membership and go for it. It was a great experience (and can I just say, the popcorn is enough to make you weep -- it's so tasty) and the cinema is cool and draughty, a nice option on hot, sticky summer nights. My only regret is that this place is CLOSING for renovations at the end of June! I'm so devastated. I'm going to go a few times this month to get the most of my membership (and to get my buttery popcorn fix). After that, I don't know what will happen. I might pitch a tent outside and spend the summer keening and awaiting the day that it might open once more. Woe is me!

It's a bit crusty, run down and the chairs ain't that comfy, but for all these reasons and more I really enjoy my trips to the Bloor Cinema. When the lights go down and the screen begins to flicker, I feel like I'm in one of those old war-time cinemas that only reel (like the pun?!) film fans know about. Their programming is a bit hit and miss but there's generally something I want to see each month. It's nice and cheap too.