A Documentary about Canada
Short Summary:
This documentary explores the question of Canadian identity through a cross-country journey, showcasing the diverse cultures, landscapes, and people that make up Canada. The film highlights the unique characteristics of various provinces and territories, featuring interviews with individuals from Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia. Specific examples include a Newfoundland tradition keeper, a Nova Scotian fighting for social justice, a Syrian refugee family starting a business, a cross-Canada runner raising awareness for violence against women, a young PEI entrepreneur, a 92-year-old farmer, a New Brunswick music program, a female lobster fisherman, Montreal bagel makers, an Ottawa entrepreneur, a record-breaking marathon runner, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg, an RCMP officer, a women's hockey coach, a Saskatchewan hiking trail creator, a horse rescue ranch in Alberta, a nature photographer, and advocates for Wreck Beach in Vancouver. The documentary concludes by emphasizing Canada's embracing of diversity and its ongoing pursuit of improvement.
Detailed Summary:
The documentary begins by posing the question of Canadian identity, acknowledging its complexity. The filmmaker embarks on a cross-Canada journey to explore this question, starting in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Section 1: Newfoundland and Labrador: The journey begins at Cape Spear, the easternmost point of North America. Lori McCarthy, passionate about preserving Newfoundland traditions, emphasizes the importance of passing down cultural heritage and the unique lifestyle that draws people to the province. ("Growing up in Newfoundland is really about a lifestyle...you come to Newfoundland for the people and a lifestyle.") The section showcases the beauty of the landscape and the welcoming nature of the fishing villages.
Section 2: Gros Morne National Park: This section highlights the diverse landscapes of Gros Morne National Park, featuring interviews with women from "Wild Women Expeditions" who emphasize the park's unique geological features and the awe-inspiring beauty of Western Brook Pond. The section also includes a conversation with a local fisherman, emphasizing the importance of the land and water to the community.
Section 3: Nova Scotia: The journey continues to Nova Scotia, where the story of Viola Desmond, a Black woman unjustly imprisoned in 1946, is told through her sister Wanda Robson. Robson's determination in fighting for her sister's posthumous pardon exemplifies resilience and the ongoing fight for social justice. The section also features a Syrian refugee family who have started a chocolate business ("Peace by Chocolate"), highlighting Canada's welcoming approach to refugees. Brad F., running across Canada to raise awareness against violence against women, is also featured.
Section 4: Prince Edward Island: Prince Edward Island is presented as a storybook place, showcasing its beauty and the story of Confederation. Lacy, a young entrepreneur who started a dance school at 16, demonstrates the entrepreneurial spirit of the island. John Liser, a 92-year-old farmer, shares his passion for farming and his longevity, emphasizing the importance of hard work and healthy living.
Section 5: New Brunswick: This section focuses on the "Systema" music program in New Brunswick, which provides music education to children from diverse backgrounds, overcoming economic barriers. The story highlights the community effort required for such an initiative. The section also features Sarah, a female lobster fisherman, showcasing her skill and challenging gender stereotypes in the fishing industry.
Section 6: Quebec: Quebec City's European charm and Montreal's artistic spirit are highlighted. The section includes an interview with a Montreal bagel maker, emphasizing the passion and tradition behind their craft. It also features Sebastian, showcasing innovation in the beverage industry with his maple syrup cola.
Section 7: Ottawa: Sahim Bali, an immigrant from Algeria, shares her story of building a successful business in Ottawa using Argan oil, highlighting the opportunities Canada offers and her commitment to empowering women in her home country.
Section 8: Ontario: Toronto's multiculturalism and vibrancy are showcased. Ed Whitlock, a record-breaking marathon runner, exemplifies the importance of maintaining a youthful spirit and overcoming challenges, even at an advanced age.
Section 9: Manitoba: Manitoba's vast farmland and Winnipeg's development are highlighted, focusing on the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and its impact on the city. The section also features JD and his Sunshine Band, a group using music to engage with and uplift Winnipeg's street-involved population.
Section 10: Saskatchewan: Saskatchewan's open landscapes and friendly communities are emphasized. An RCMP officer shares her experience, highlighting the rewarding aspects of her career and her bicultural identity. The section also features Sarah Hodes, a women's hockey coach, discussing the differences between men's and women's hockey and the challenges faced by female athletes. J Brown, promoting hiking trails in Saskatchewan, challenges preconceived notions about the province.
Section 11: Alberta: The majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains and the badlands is showcased. Brenda Fur, running a horse rescue ranch, highlights her efforts to save horses from slaughter. Dax, a nature photographer, shares his journey from a 9-to-5 job to a successful career capturing the beauty of Alberta's landscapes.
Section 12: British Columbia: Vancouver's progressive atmosphere and the beauty of its surrounding rainforest are highlighted. Judy Williams, an advocate for Wreck Beach, discusses the importance of personal freedom and the fight to preserve the beach's clothing-optional status. SD Homan, involved with the Queer Arts Festival, emphasizes the importance of creating spaces for marginalized communities.
Section 13: Tofino and Conclusion: The documentary concludes in Tofino, British Columbia, reflecting on the journey and emphasizing the embracing of diversity as a defining characteristic of Canadian identity. The film concludes with a message of national pride and the ongoing pursuit of becoming a better nation.