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The Best Damn Fiddler from Calabogie to Kaladar

The setting for this drama is a logging community, focusing on a man who chooses the unfettered life and uncertain income of an itinerant bush worker, even though it means that his family lives poorly as a result. The film is a study of the effects on family life of isolation and deprivation. Features a wonderful performance from a young Margot Kidder.
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The setting for this drama is a logging community, focusing on a man who chooses the unfettered life and uncertain income of an itinerant bush worker, even though it means that his family lives poorly as a result. The film is a study of the effects on family life of isolation and deprivation. Features a wonderful performance from a young Margot Kidder.

 This work contains scenes of nudity and/or sexuality. Viewer discretion is advised.
Social Issues Families All subjects
Captivating Fiction films All channels
  • director
    Peter Pearson
  • producer
    Barrie Howells
    John Kemeny
  • script
    Joan Finnigan
  • photography
    Tony Ianzelo
  • sound
    Hans Oomes
  • editing
    Michael McKennirey
  • sound editing
    Bernard Bordeleau
    Robert Fleming
  • cast
    Margot Kidder
    Kate Reid
    Chris Wiggins
    Paisley Maxwell
    William Thourlby
    Sandy Webster
    Jon Granik

Education

Ages 14 to 17

Notes

Explore the family dynamic: Why does Rosie encourage her father to accept assistance from the government? Why is her father adamant about not seeking help? What do you think is the mother's stance? What role does alcohol play in this dynamic? The film was made in the 1960's; to what extent have attitudes changed with regard to men and women's traditional roles in the family, government assistance and alcoholism?

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The Best Damn Fiddler from Calabogie to Kaladar
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