The Top Canadian Films Of All Time Image

The Top Canadian Films Of All Time

By Film Threat Staff | December 19, 2022

Canada has some cracking film productions that slip through the cracks of the international limelight. These films are a totally unique representation of the various cultures that define the numerous provinces. Thanks to this mishmash of cultures, the films don’t often follow the traditional American story formula and produce some unique films.

The entertainment value of these films is unmistakable. Whilst Canadians enjoy playing on the best online casinos Canada has to offer, playing the great games and redeeming the incredible bonuses, other Canadians enjoy watching their local towns and cities represented on the big screen. In this article, we’re going to unveil some of these films that represent Canada the best.

Jesus of Montreal (1989)

This comedy-come-drama film totally flew under the radar when it was released in 1989. Directed by Denys Arcand, the film has quite a meta-story which is both interesting and intriguing.

The film follows a gaggle of actors who are performing a play in a church in downtown Quebec. This play has the actors portraying a slightly alternative view of what Jesus taught, which causes the actors to stage a coup against the lead actor.

The plot ensues with the lead actor going through similar experiences as Jesus does in the bible, leading to an uncompromising view of what it may be like if Jesus himself were to walk among modern people. 

Mon Oncle Antoine (1971)

One of the classic Canadian films, this coming-of-age and slightly depressing film is set around the infamous Asbestos Strikes that took place in Quebec during the end of the 40s. 

The challenges of the time are represented perfectly, with the focus being on a teenager called Benoit. The subject of death is approached heavily in Mon Oncle Antoine and when you sit down to watch it, prepare to chew over the ending for a long time.

Goin’ Down The Road (1970)

Part adventure film, part faux documentary film, Goin’ Down the Road follows two young men as they escape the Maritimes for a better life in Toronto. 

A stark portrayal of the youth of Canada post-war, you genuinely feel the optimism for the protagonists, as well as the disappointments they face on their journey to wealth and better times in Toronto. 

The Sweet Hereafter (1997)

The Sweet Hereafter was adapted from the novel by Russell Banks and centers around a devastating school bus crash that takes place in a close-knit community. The accident, unfortunately, claims the lives of 14 children and results in a lawsuit. This lawsuit ends up dividing the community.

The film is poignant and doesn’t pull punches, which earned it a lot of acclaim. It was nominated for and won three different awards at the Cannes film festival and another two academy awards. 

Dead Ringers (1988)

One of the only movies on this list that’s more of a thriller, Dead Ringers was released in 1988 and was created by the master of body horror, David Cronenberg. The movie itself is a mix of both true life and fiction but slowly descends into absolute madness, as Cronenberg tends to do.

The film has a rather strange plot – a pair of twin gynaecologists who use their cunning and guile to trick people. The twins end up falling in love with the same woman. This results in a whole heap of craziness we simply can’t convey well in this article!

The Stone Angel (2001)

Pure drama, The Stone Angel follows a woman who is recounting her less-than-ideal life as she is about to be sent to a nursing home. Whilst the film sounds incredibly basic, it’s anything but.

The protagonist, Hagar Shipley, recounts some incredibly deep traumas and has to reconcile with herself over these traumas. Whilst the film doesn’t stay totally true to its novel counterpart by changing the time period that it’s set in, it’s incredibly hard to deny the sheer intensity and passion of the actors & actresses involved.

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