Toronto moviegoers report rising instances of poor cinema etiquette

As movie attendance rises in Toronto following the release of major films like ‘Spider-Man: A New Day’ and Christopher Nolan’s ‘Odyssey’, reports of poor cinema etiquette have resurfaced. Patrons have complained about disruptive behaviors including loud talking, using mobile phones during screenings, taking photos, and placing feet on seats.

Some viewers have also reported issues with children running in theaters and unpleasant odors in crowded venues. Film critic Emma Badame suggested that the habit of using mobile devices while watching content—a behavior reinforced during the pandemic—has contributed to increased distractions caused by bright phone screens.

Rafiq Khimani, general manager of Cineplex Varsity & VIP, stated that while extreme behaviors are not common, management monitors for disruptions. Cineplex employs measures such as playing etiquette advertisements before films, posting codes of conduct, and having staff patrol theaters. Violators who refuse to comply with warnings may be asked to leave the premises.