I used to think Canadian cinema had matured over the years—that it had found its voice, sharpened its style, and embraced new ways of reaching audiences. But while diving deep into Canadian film history for my book, 101 Fascinating Canadian Film & TV Facts, I had a little revelation. Maybe it's not Canadian cinema that’s evolved so much—maybe it’s us, the audience, who have grown up.
Don’t get me wrong, the industry has come a long way. Technology has brought filmmaking closer to the fingertips of Canadian creators, and while it’s still no easy feat, the barriers aren’t quite as tall. Sure, there was a time when Canadian films might have been seen as Hollywood’s little sibling but look at us now! With filmmakers like Sarah Polley, David Cronenberg, Deepa Mehta, Atom Egoyan, Patricia Rozema, Matt Johnson, and Don McKellar, Canada’s storytelling power is undeniable, and the world’s taking notice.
But here’s the kicker: Is it just the tech, the talent, or maybe the higher production values? I think there’s more to it. What if Canadian films have always been incredible, with compelling stories and unique voices? What if it's us—the audience—who have finally opened our eyes to them?
Today’s Canadian filmmakers have tools that their predecessors could only dream about, and yet, even back then, Canadian films found ways to stand out. Sure, sometimes it took a familiar face to draw attention, but often, those films spoke for themselves, brimming with raw talent and authenticity. Maybe we just had to grow into our taste.
Granted, horror and comedy flicks like Funeral Home, Porky’s, Black Christmas, Scanners, Prom Night, My Bloody Valentine, and Meatballs? They had me hooked from the start. But as an inspiring young film nerd raised on Hollywood’s gloss, classics like Goin’ Down the Road, Paperback Hero, John and the Missus, and Wedding in White took a little more time. It was a gritty, grainy world, one that only later did I realize was rich with real storytelling.
Then came Bruce McDonald’s Roadkill and Highway 61. These weren’t polished, star-studded Hollywood blockbusters, but the chemistry of Canadian actors like Valerie Buhagiar and Don McKellar was undeniable. Suddenly, I saw the beauty in earlier films by William Fruet, Allan King, Don Shebib, and more. These weren’t just “important” films; they were downright entertaining.
And look at the passion behind National Canadian Film Day, thanks to champions like Jack Blum, Sharon Corder, and the Reel Canada team, who are bringing these gems to young audiences across the country. Or NorthernStars.ca, tirelessly preserving our film history for over 20 years.
At the end of the day, supporting Canadian cinema is as easy as pressing play on a Canadian movie. Give it a try—you might just discover something new about Canadian storytelling and maybe even about yourself.
Thom Ernst is a film writer, broadcaster, and critic. He was the former host and producer of TVO’s Saturday Night at the Movies. Thom currently lives in Toronto. Learn more here.