Cineplex to reopen 25 Ontario cinemas

TORONTO — Cineplex says it’s ready to start reopening select Ontario movie theatres today.

The Canadian cinema operator will begin with 25 locations across the province as part of a wider phased return to business during COVID-19.

The announcement comes after Ontario Heritage Minister Lisa MacLeod tweeted about a “productive” call with Cineplex CEO Ellis Jacob where they confirmed the chain was prepared to operate under Stage 3 measures.

Cineplex spokeswoman Sarah Van Lange says the company will be permitted to admit up to 50 moviegoers per auditorium.

The company says it plans to require guests to wear masks inside the theatre “in communities where it is mandated.”

Cineplex has already reopened 45 locations in provinces where distancing restrictions were loosened this summer, including Cineplex Odeon Victoria.

Also open in Victoria with reduced showings and new cleaning and safety protocols are Sidney’s Star Cinema, SilverCity Victoria, Imax Victoria at the Royal B.C. Museum and Capitol 6 on Yates Street.

With the Ontario openings, Cineplex says it is introduced a variety of new guidelines, including reserved seating plans to ensure physical distancing.

The company also boosted its cleaning procedures, adopted cashless payment requirements and reduced its food menus to focus mainly on popcorn and candy items.

In Ontario, a lineup of newer releases, including My Spy, The Invisible Man and Sonic the Hedgehog will be showing alongside classics such as Jaws and Jurassic Park.