Robert Huber, a transformative figure in Toronto’s film scene, passed away on April 1 at the age of 94, succumbing to atherosclerotic heart disease in his home. Huber’s profound influence on the city’s cinematic landscape began in the 1960s when he introduced repertory film screenings, challenging the status quo of a city dominated by mainstream Hollywood releases.
A Vision for Cinema
In the mid-1960s, Toronto was a cautious film town, with limited options for cinephiles. The Ontario Censor Board heavily controlled screenings, and the recent legalisation of Sunday showings marked only a small step toward cinematic diversity. Huber recognised the need for a platform that showcased the masterpieces of European filmmakers like Michelangelo Antonioni and Ingmar Bergman.
In 1966, he opened the Elektra Theatre, followed by the Cinema Lumière, the Revue, and later, the Fine Arts Theatre. His programming was characterised by a commitment to treating films with the same reverence afforded to opera and theatre. Late arrivals were discouraged, and the sale of popcorn was eschewed, as Huber sought to create a sanctum for film appreciation.
Cultivating a Cinephile Community
Huber’s efforts laid the groundwork for a thriving cinephile culture that would eventually elevate Toronto to one of North America’s premier cinema cities, long before the inception of the Toronto International Film Festival. Joseph Medjuck, a close friend and founder of the Cinema Studies Institute at the University of Toronto, noted that prior to Huber’s initiatives, film enthusiasts had limited avenues for experiencing classic cinema.
He not only championed European auteurs but also showcased homegrown talent, including an early spotlight on filmmaker David Cronenberg. Fellow filmmaker Atom Egoyan described Huber as a monumental presence in Toronto’s film history, crediting him with shaping defining moments in his own cinematic journey.
A Legacy of Change
Throughout his career, Huber’s dedication to film remained unwavering. He transitioned from the Elektra Theatre to the Cinema Lumière in 1969, where he continued to curate a rotating selection of underappreciated films. Despite financial challenges, he maintained his vision, fostering a space for discovery and artistic expression that resonated with audiences.
However, after partnerships and programming disputes, including a notable disagreement over the documentary *Chariots of the Gods*, Huber sought new opportunities. In December 1972, he and friend Paul Ennis revitalised the Revue Cinema, which quickly became a cherished destination for film lovers. They later expanded their reach with the Fine Arts Theatre, which specialised in first-run art films.
As multiplexes began to dominate, Huber’s ventures faced increased competition. By the mid-1980s, the landscape he helped create was shifting dramatically, leading him to retire from film exhibition. Yet, his impact on the industry remained significant; he was known for taking bold risks on films that others overlooked.
Final Years and Lasting Influence
In his later years, Huber led a more private life, often found watching films and upgrading his extensive home video collection. His passion for cinema never waned, and he maintained a deep curiosity about contemporary film, frequently engaging with staff at local video stores about new releases.
The Revue Cinema is the last of Huber’s theatres still operational, continuing to honour his legacy. A memorial screening is scheduled for June 15, where friends and fans will gather to celebrate his monumental contributions to Toronto’s film culture.
Why it Matters
Robert Huber’s legacy extends far beyond the screens he curated; he redefined what it meant to experience cinema in Toronto. By advocating for art-house films and fostering a sense of community among film enthusiasts, Huber not only enriched the city’s cultural fabric but also inspired generations of filmmakers and cinephiles. His vision and passion for cinema remind us of the importance of preserving diverse artistic expressions in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape.
