The idea of a “national cinema” (canadian) depends upon the assumption that there is such a thing as a static,
clearly identifiable “national identity”—a set of traits or characteristics that can be seen as being specific to a
particular nation’s culture. And yet, it can easily be argued that the characteristics often ascribed to a national
cinema do not genuinely reflect the realities experienced in the.country in which that cinema originates.
Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of considering non-Hollywood films through the lens of nationality, using at
least two course films to support your argument. You may also consider one film from outside the course.
films:
- Double Happiness, Mina Shum (Canada, 1994), 87 min., colour..
- Last Night, Don McKellar (Canada/France 1998), colour, 95 min.
- Rhymes for Young Ghouls, Jeff Barnaby (Canada, 2013), 88 min., colour
Sample Solution