Watch Being Canadian

Being Canadian is a 2015 documentary film directed by Robert Cohen, who is also the main protagonist of the film. The film takes a light-hearted and humorous approach to explore what it means to be Canadian and how the country's national identity has evolved over the years. The film opens with Cohen, who was born in Calgary but currently lives in Los Angeles, California, realizing that he knows very little about his own country. He decides to embark on a journey across Canada to learn more about its history, culture, and people. Along the way, he interviews various Canadians from all walks of life, including comedian Jim Carrey, singer-songwriter Alanis Morissette, and former Prime Minister Kim Campbell.

Through these interviews, Cohen and the audience learn about some of the quirky and endearing aspects of Canadian culture, such as their love for hockey, Tim Hortons, and apologizing. He also delves into some of the more serious aspects of Canadian identity, including the country's relationship with its indigenous people and its complicated history with Quebec, which has had a long and ongoing struggle for independence.

The film also features some hilarious moments, such as when Cohen attends a Canadian-themed prom in Chicago and meets a group of enthusiastic Americans who are obsessed with Canada. He also visits a small town called Dildo in Newfoundland and meets the mayor, who proudly shows off the town's famous lighthouse-shaped mailbox.

As Cohen travels across Canada, he also comes to appreciate the country's natural beauty and diverse landscape. He visits Niagara Falls, drives through the Rocky Mountains, and even goes dogsledding in the Yukon. These moments capture the essence of what it means to be Canadian - a love of nature and the great outdoors.

One of the most poignant moments in the film is when Cohen visits the residential school in Kamloops, British Columbia. The school was one of many that were set up by the Canadian government in the 19th and 20th centuries to assimilate indigenous children into Euro-Canadian culture. Many of the children suffered physical and sexual abuse, and the schools have been criticized as a form of cultural genocide. This moment in the film highlights the darker side of Canadian history and shows that the country's national identity is not without its flaws.

In addition to Cohen's interviews, the film also features some notable Canadian celebrities, including comedians Kathy Griffin and Will Arnett, and talk show host Conan O'Brien. These celebrities offer their own perspectives on what it means to be Canadian and why they are proud of their heritage.

Overall, Being Canadian is a heartwarming and humorous film that celebrates Canada's unique identity and culture. It offers a glimpse into the country's past, present, and future, and shows why Canada is often considered to be one of the best countries in the world to live in. The film is a must-watch for anyone who loves Canada or wants to learn more about what it means to be Canadian.

Being Canadian is a 2015 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.