The Tower That Built a City

For over half a century, the CN Tower has pierced the Toronto skyline, standing as a brutalist concrete giant that redefined Canada's largest city. Now, the 553.33-metre-tall waterfront landmark gets its cinematic due in *The Tower That Built a City*, an official selection of the 2026 Hot Docs Festival.

Screening at the Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema in the Annex (506 Bloor St W), this documentary goes beyond the postcard views to explore how an ambitious transmission tower transformed into a cultural beacon. From its engineering feats to its unexpected role in Drake’s 'Views' album art and countless city-defining stunts, the film mixes rare archival footage with fresh interviews featuring the tower's creators and local notables.

What to expect: A deep dive into Toronto's evolution from a blue-collar hub into a cultural powerhouse, told through the lens of our most famous architectural marvel. Following the screening, stay in your seat for an exclusive, in-person Q&A session with director Mark Myers.

Make a night of it: Head to the Annex beforehand for a casual bite along Bloor Street West, or grab a post-movie pint at one of the neighbourhood's classic pubs.