Saskatchewan Theaters Thrive Amid Streaming Surge

Independent movie theaters in Saskatchewan are experiencing a resurgence, despite the overwhelming popularity of streaming services. Three local cinemas report increased attendance, showcasing the continued appeal of the traditional movie-going experience. Scott Hamilton, the film programmer for Saskatoon’s Broadway Theatre, noted, “Our numbers are going up. We are a major anomaly.” He attributes this growth to the theater’s diverse programming, which includes unique events and special screenings.

The Broadway Theatre plans to feature a seven-and-a-half-hour film by Hungarian director Béla Tarr titled Soft and Tango. Hamilton emphasized the importance of seeing films on the big screen, stating, “Restored on the big screen with the best audio you could hope for… that’s a really special thing.”

Community Engagement Drives Attendance

The shared experience of watching a film with an audience is a significant draw for attendees. Ryan Holota, chief operating officer of the Saskatchewan Science Centre, which houses an IMAX theater, remarked on the communal aspect of cinema. “I think there’s a magical part of seeing a movie with an audience that really makes a difference,” he explained. The IMAX screen, measuring five stories tall and 70 feet wide, enhances the film-watching experience with its advanced sound system. Holota noted that while genres like horror or action tend to attract larger audiences, films such as Oppenheimer have also achieved remarkable success.

Meanwhile, Sam Heinrichs, who manages the Regina Public Library’s theater, reported a consistent increase in attendance over the past five years. He highlighted the curated nature of film screenings as a unique experience compared to browsing streaming platforms. “There isn’t the waiting, browsing through Netflix trying to find something. It’s just… something playing, and you go to see it as part of an experience,” Heinrichs stated. He also emphasized that classic films, such as Alien, resonate more strongly with audiences in a theater setting.

Streaming Services Influence Theater Dynamics

While independent theaters are thriving, the rise of streaming platforms has undeniably altered the landscape of film distribution. Netflix boasts over 302 million subscribers worldwide, followed by Amazon Prime Video at approximately 200 million and Disney+ with 157 million. Holota acknowledged that streaming has impacted certain film genres, particularly documentaries, which have seen a decline in theater attendance. For instance, a Netflix documentary about vlogger Gabby Petito drew around 31 million viewers within its first week of release.

Heinrichs expressed concern over the potential for streaming giants to limit access to films by acquiring traditional studios. “We can’t screen any Netflix content here, so them purchasing other film companies potentially limits our ability to screen films because they don’t allow theater screenings,” he said.

Despite these challenges, Hamilton believes that theaters must adapt rather than lament the changes in the industry. “There’s no sense in sitting around; a lot of theaters are spending a lot of time belaboring that and really kind of crying about it,” he stated.

The enduring appeal of cinema is also reflected in operational metrics. Holota mentioned that some days the theater operates for 18 hours, necessitating a larger staff than in previous years. Heinrichs pointed out that the Regina Public Library’s theater, which offers free admission, benefits from this pricing strategy in attracting audiences.

Looking ahead, both theaters anticipate strong attendance for upcoming releases, including Christopher Nolan‘s The Odyssey, set to debut on July 17, 2025. The unique atmosphere and community engagement fostered by these independent theaters continue to captivate audiences, ensuring that the big screen remains a cherished part of the film experience.