A cinema in Oakville, Ontario, has ceased screening Indian films indefinitely following two violent incidents that authorities believe were aimed directly at the theatre’s programming. The attacks included an attempted arson and a shooting, both occurring within a span of one week, prompting security concerns and an internal review.

The management at Film.ca Cinemas confirmed that their decision to remove several Indian movies from the schedule came after mounting threats and violence seemingly tied to their screening of South Asian content. “We understand that these incidents may be connected to disagreements within the South Asian film industry,” the theatre stated.

Arson Attack Sparks First Alarm

The first attack occurred on September 25 at approximately 5:20 am. According to the Halton Regional Police, two suspects approached the cinema with red gas cans and set fire to the entrance doors. Surveillance footage captured the sequence: a grey SUV made multiple rounds in the lot before a white vehicle dropped off the suspects. Dressed in hoodies and medical masks, they doused the doors in flammable liquid before setting it alight.

Police described one suspect as white, clad in black clothing and high-top shoes. The second wore white socks with sandals and carried a phone during the act. Although the building was closed at the time and no one was injured, the exterior suffered moderate fire damage.

Gunfire Escalates Fear

Exactly a week later, on October 2 at 1:50 am, a second, more alarming incident occurred. A lone suspect reportedly fired multiple rounds at the cinema’s entrance while it was closed. No injuries were reported, but bullet damage confirmed the targeted nature of the attack. Authorities described the shooter as a heavyset man with dark skin, dressed entirely in black and wearing a black face mask.

Theatre’s Leadership Responds

In a public video, Jeff Knoll, CEO of Film.ca, acknowledged the link between the incidents and the theatre’s choice to screen Indian films. “The other day, somebody tried to burn the theatre down in a dispute with respect to us playing South Asian films,” he said.

While initially standing firm on continuing South Asian screenings, Knoll later confirmed that safety had to come first. “We recognise that many guests had eagerly anticipated these films, and we sincerely regret any inconvenience and disappointment this decision may cause,” he added. The cancelled films include Rishab Shetty’s Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1 and Pawan Kalyan’s They Call Him OG.

He emphasised that both incidents occurred outside operating hours, which suggests an intention to damage property and intimidate rather than harm patrons directly. “We believe that the intention is to cause property damage that will result in forcing our hand to close our doors,” Knoll stated.

Police Investigation Ongoing

Investigators have confirmed both incidents were deliberate and targeted. However, they have not identified a clear motive or suspects at this time. The possibility of extremist involvement has been speculated in media circles, particularly references to Khalistani groups, but law enforcement has made no official statements connecting the attacks to any specific organisation.

The Halton Police have appealed to the public for information, releasing suspect descriptions and CCTV footage in hopes of tracking down those responsible.

Screenings Suspended Across Region

Following the events in Oakville, another cinema York Cinemas also decided to halt the screening of Indian films. “Due to recent incidents, we will not be screening Indian movies until further notice. This decision has been made with the safety of our employees and guests in mind,” the theatre announced in a statement, assuring customers that refunds would be issued for advance bookings.

Safety Measures and Caution

Film.ca Cinemas has now withdrawn all South Asian titles from its lineup, citing an “abundance of caution.” The management confirmed increased security presence and full cooperation with law enforcement to ensure the safety of guests and staff. At the time of reporting, the cinema remains open for non-Indian film screenings.

The theatre added, “While we do not wish to give in to threats, the situation has escalated to the point where we must take every precaution to protect our community.”