Home / Crime and Justice / Ontario Theatre Cancels Indian Film Screenings After Arson, Shooting Attacks
Ontario Theatre Cancels Indian Film Screenings After Arson, Shooting Attacks
3 Oct, 2025
Summary
- Oakville theatre targeted in two violent incidents within a week
- Screenings of Indian films Kantara and They Call Him OG cancelled
- Theatre cites safety concerns for employees and guests

In a concerning turn of events, a movie theatre in Oakville, Ontario has been forced to cancel its screenings of several Indian films following a series of violent incidents. According to the report, Film.ca Cinemas was first targeted in an attempted arson attack on September 25th, where two suspects tried to set the theatre entrance on fire. Just a week later, on October 2nd, a lone suspect fired multiple rounds through the theatre's entrance doors.
Authorities believe these attacks were deliberate, though the motives remain unclear. While some sources suggested a possible link to Khalistani extremist groups, the police have not confirmed this angle. Nonetheless, the theatre has taken the decision to temporarily halt the exhibition of South Asian films, including the popular titles Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1 and Pawan Kalyan's They Call Him OG.
In a statement, the theatre acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating that "evidence seems to show that the participation in the exhibition of South Asian films has led to these incidents." As a result, the theatre has removed all Indian films from its lineup, citing the need to "take every precaution to protect [its] community."
The fear has now spread beyond Oakville, with another theatre, York Cinemas, also announcing that it will not be screening Indian movies "until further notice." This decision has been made to ensure the safety of both employees and guests.
The series of attacks and the subsequent cancellation of Indian film screenings in Ontario is a concerning development that highlights the need for vigilance and the protection of artistic expression. As the authorities continue their investigation, the local community and film enthusiasts await a resolution to this troubling situation.