Being the star of a major Hollywood film is a dream come true for many people, getting to see their face all over the silver screen.

Unfortunately however, many silver screens across the city still lack audiences as restrictions and hesitancy about being in enclosed places has left quite a few people avoiding the movie theatres.

That's why Cineplex and Disney's newest star, Toronto's very own Simu Liu, are hoping to get people back into theatres just in time for the premiere of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings coming in September.

We didn’t think we’d ever meet anyone who loved popcorn as much as us. We were wrong. 🍿❤️

We’re so excited to team up with Canada’s own @SimuLiu and welcome movie lovers back to theatres! pic.twitter.com/fsPLkngchT

— Cineplex (@CineplexMovies) August 20, 2021

It's a breakthrough role for the former Kim's Convenience star who enters the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the titular character, so the excitement of having others see it is very understandable for him.

"By coming back to the cinema, you're not just witnessing incredible action and stunts on a 50 foot screen, you're also supporting the hundreds of thousands of people who make a living behind the camera," Liu says during the promotional video.

A love story in three parts. 🍿❤️@SimuLiu pic.twitter.com/MYTFdluRAO

— Cineplex (@CineplexMovies) August 20, 2021

Cineplex is also rolling out all the stops to ensure those in attendance feel safe and cared for as they watch the new blockbuster.

"Our guests are looking for the escape that only the movie theatre experience can provide. We've welcomed millions of guests back and they're seeing the attention we are putting to their health and safety," Sarah Van Lange, Vice President of Communications, Content Marketing and Social Media at Cineplex told blogTO.

"If the pandemic has taught us anything it's that watching a movie at home and watching a movie on the big screen are not the same. Movie going is a safe escape and a social experience."

While countless Toronto residents are eager to see their hometown favourite on the big screen, it may take some convincing for others to step outside their comfort zone. 

What, you guys don’t hug your popcorn? 🍿

On behalf of myself and @CineplexMovies, I want to welcome you back to the cinema to watch incredible movies like Shang Chi and the Legend of the Rings, in theatres September 3rd.

So butter up and be safe; we’ll see you real soon! pic.twitter.com/Rkb5MAXoio

— Simu Liu (刘思慕) (@SimuLiu) August 21, 2021

Liu, for this part, is already doing his best to promote the movie. Earlier this week he appeared at the world premiere in Los Angeles. A separate red carpet premiere is slated for Toronto when the movie opens here.

Before the pandemic, he surprised Toronto audiences when he bought out a movie theatre at the Varsity for a screening of Farewell.

Toronto can only hope he has some similar stunts planned when Shang-Chi hits theatres on Sept. 3.