A Blast From The Past - Old Theatres Pt. 1

There was a time when the Toronto movie landscape wasn't always dominated by Silver Citys or Cineplex mall theaters. Many of the old movie theatres are closed now. In their heyday they each brought their own style and atmosphere to the cinematic experience for people in this city. Here's a glimpse of what some of the movie houses were like in Toronto circa 1970s thanks to an article in a defunct entertainment digest, Toronto Calendar Magazine.


The Cinema (T-D Centre)
Deep in the heart of Toronto's financial district is the finest cinema in the city. Owned by Famous Players, the Cinema is a superb example of everything a film theatre should be. The color scheme is soothing and elegant. Tables and chairs are provided in the foyer for those early arrivals who are meeting friends or just need time to change their mood from business to pleasure. The refreshment bar serves memorable coffee in addition to the standard fare, and even that is better than average. The auditorium itself is an exercise in chic restraint. Walls are long sweeping expanses of eggshell white, wonderfully comfortable seats are in black and the whole is brightly lit and a visual delight. Screening is as good as the design and cinemeccanica sound system is of excellent quality and well maintained. More to come.