Old City Hall - Film Screening
November 19, 2025, Time: 7:00 PM EDT
Members only Zoom Event
Toronto’s Old City Hall opened in 1899 and has had two very distinct lives. It started as a combined city hall and courthouse but was mostly thought of as The City Hall. After City politicians and administrators moved to Viljo Revel’s futuristic New City Hall in 1965, OCH continued as a Courthouse only, the biggest in the country. It is now shut and awaits a decision from the City as to its future.
OCH has already had two near-death experiences: from the downtown Toronto fire of 1904, and clearance for the construction of The Eaton Centre in the 1960’s. The film makes clear what a spectacular building it is and why it is worth preserving.
The film is the story of the building’s architect, architecture and place in history as the centre of civic life of Toronto for 66 years. It includes wonderful footage of the interior including murals, stained glass, woodwork and courtrooms. It is hoped the film will be a catalyst for a discussion of the future of the building.
Michael Kainer practiced law in Toronto until his retirement and is a self-taught filmmaker. He has co-produced two documentary shorts and five feature length films. All have Toronto historical and cultural themes. The WMSC showed Michael's film “Not just an Island: A History of the Toronto Island” in 2022. Michael has worked extensively in the Toronto arts and non-profit communities both as a lawyer and volunteer.
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