Talking Canadian 2004
Distributed by Filmakers Library, 124 East 40th Street, New York, NY 10016; 202-808-4980
Produced by Canadian Broadcasting Corporation
Directed by Margaret Slaught
VHS, color, 44 min.
Jr. High - Adult
Canadian Studies, Communication, Education, Humor, History, Language, Multicultural Studies, Popular Culture
Date Entered: 03/24/2005
Reviewed by Brad Eden, Ph.D., Head, Web and Digitization Services, University Libraries, University of Nevada, Las VegasThis video is a semi-historical, somewhat humorous examination of the language and spelling differences between Canadians and Americans. Speech patterns, regional accents, colorful words, and interesting vocabularies are all examined with teenagers, language specialists, and encyclopedia project directors. The humor comes from the Canadian side towards Americans, and how we (Americans) misuse, misspell, and mispronounce the "English" language. Historical footage of how the Canadian language developed from its various British, French, and American roots is also explained, all in a humorous way. A fascinating and informative examination of our neighbors to the north and the development of their language and culture.