Why don’t indie theatres show more Canadian films? Industry group blames studios, sort of

The Network of Independent Canadian Exhibitors (NICE) has called for changes to an industry practice that it believes is limiting the number of Canadian films shown in independent cinemas across the country. Known as "full-show commitments," this practice requires studios to insist that cinemas agree to show a single film on a specific screen for a specified period, sometimes as long as four weeks.

While this arrangement may not affect larger theatres with multiple screens, independent cinemas often operate with just one screen, making it challenging to program other films. NICE argues that the practice disproportionately affects lesser-known domestic films, which often struggle to secure bookings and generate attention. According to Sonya Yokota William, NICE's director, "Canadian films are routinely the films that miss out."

A study conducted by NICE found that full-show commitments were cited as a factor in 23.8% of instances where independent cinemas decided not to book a Canadian film between February and March 2026. Some cinemas refuse full-show commitments due to their limited screen availability, while others opt for films without this requirement to maintain flexibility.

However, the report found that audience appeal and lack of awareness about Canadian films were the top two reasons why independent cinemas didn't program them. If Canadian films aren't screened in local theatres, they often generate less revenue, according to the report. Telefilm Canada reported that domestic films generated $13.9 million in box office revenue in 2025, a 40% decrease from $23.5 million in 2024.

The organization believes that increased visibility for Canadian films would boost their performance at the box office.