Filming the Nation, Essay Example

Berton’s essay on being Canadian, Joe’s Rant, and the Log Divers video clip depicts some very different characteristics of Canadians. In a general comparative study of these films we find the simple differences in the overall context of the films. By this I mean there are three different forms of text that show very real topics that are common beliefs. Who and what Canadians are is often generalized by a common knowledge. There is a definite feminine or gender based theoretical approach to these films. The connection between these three texts addresses common misconceptions and stereotypes that are associated with Canadians by shedding light on the reality.

The description of these three pieces has a very similar context, with differences. By this I mean, they are all in some way dealing with the typical beliefs that are associated with Canadians. Pierre Berton’s Why We Act Canadian is a personal exploration of the nation’s character. The weakness for red coats, or how the Mounties are above the law. They essentially are void of answering to the laws of the nation. The nation looks up to these Mounties as almost a father figure. The belief that Canadians are secure and cautious is a very real stereotype, so it is a little contradicting to depend on such a corrupt love for institutional authority. They put order first and freedom second. The very order they crave is in essence corrupt, so therefore it is void of order. In Joe’s Rant, he addresses what he does not do. He is not a lumber jack or lives an igloo, or even owns a dog sled. These may perhaps be more on the extreme sides of Canadian misconceptions, but he is addressing who he personally is in a manner that he feels is the most appropriate. The last film is the log diver. Canadians are known for their log divers and this short film begins with the real individual working and then turns into an animated cartoon. The women are expected to be with doctors and high-class professionals, however they want the log divers instead.

The interpretation of these three texts was not as easy as black and white. Why We Act Canadian is a work that justifies the nation’s pride. As if there is a need to explain why one would be proud to be Canadian, or American, or even Mexican. Perhaps someone from another country may not appreciate such pride, so Berton wrote to address why this is an ok conception. The commercial Joe’s Rant makes some very real and blunt statements about what it means to be Canadian. Often jokes are affiliated on how it is believed that every spoken context from Canadians begins with “a” and Joe very much so denies that allegation. Who he is, is an individual who wants to break free from being classified in a way that he does not associate with. In Log Divers it shows that parent’s expectations for their daughters are similar to that of other countries. Working class men will never be as highly valued as the professionals who bring in the higher paychecks.

In evaluation of these three texts, there are good and bad feelings that could be associated with them. In Why We Act Canadian it does touch on their pride, but it also point out many flaws that the Canadians have come to accept as their way of life. They are not hiding any factors appearing to portray themselves as perfect, they just have pride in their country in spite of its shortcomings. In Joe’s Rant, he could have addressed his feelings in a less aggressive manner, however would it have been effective? Probably not, and in reality he would not be able to categorize his piece as Joe’s Rant had he changed the manner in which he presented. He discusses that he has a prime minister not a president and he speaks English not American. Simply stating the obvious that is all too often completely mistaken. Log Divers are light on their feet and able to move in a way that other men can’t. This is appealing to women because they like their ability to move more so than the big paycheck that is commonly associated with doctors and lawyers.

The theorization of these three pieces allows us to look at both the internal and external factors that are associated with them. Why We Act Canadian internally shows many flaws and corruptions associated with Canada. It could allow the reader to see them in a negative way. However externally, Berton’s intentions were to show that their pride is not based on perfection but loyalty. Joe’s Rant, internally would appear as a young man simply going off on certain factors that he does or does not do. Externally, these are all stereotypes that fall in association with Canadians that classify who or what they are. This isn’t a funny presentation of a nation, it is a simple one minute clarification to the true individuality that is possessed in every individual, whether they are American or Canadian. In Log Divers the internal picture is that these men are working class men who would not be as suitable as other professionals. External shows that they have more to offer than their ability to move logs down the stream.

The connection between these three texts addresses common misconceptions and stereotypes that are associated with Canadians by shedding light on the reality. Taking pride in individuality does not mean that negative associations and misconceptions can classify the majority. These three texts all show different rationales for what is believed, what is true, and what is necessary. Often stereotypes unnecessarily sets individuals at a distance based on these common beliefs. Addressing them and clarifying what is true and what is not, based on a personal individual statement can often detour negative association that coincides, in this case it is with all Canadians. These texts are extremely open to interpretation, however personally I feel they made very strong statements to clarify Canadians in a manner they want to be seen.