These long dark days of winter are perfect for a quiet night in, snuggled under the blankets with an entertaining film to pass the time. As an avid film fan and independent filmmaker, I love any excuse to stay in and watch a movie – or better yet take a trip to the local theatre. Between Covid restrictions and rainy days indoors, I’d imagine most of us have watched our fair share of pop culture hits. If you’re looking for something a bit different this month – with the added bonus of Canadian content – check out The Grand Seduction.
The Grand Seduction, 2012, (streaming on Netflix) is a Canadian comedy directed by Don McKellar. While the name suggests something a bit more taboo, this charming film is anything but. Set in the (fictional) dying fishing town of Tickle Head, the townspeople scheme to entice a big city doctor into becoming a full-time physician to secure a lucrative business contract that will reignite the town’s economy. As the unofficial leader of the plot to charm Dr. Paul Lewis (Taylor Kitsch) into throwing away his big-city career for a quiet life in Tickle Head, resident Murray French (played impeccably by Brendon Gleeson) concocts an elaborate plan to convince the newly-arrived doctor to stay, which involves the townspeople playing a fake cricket match (the Dr.’s favourite sport), tapping the doctor’s phone, and a lucky fishing trip. Full of quiet laughs and charming moments, this film is great for the entire family. Shot in Newfoundland, the scenery alone is worth the watch (as long as you’re able to look past the grey skies and dismal weather portrayed in the film).
Fun fact: The Grand Seduction is a remake of the award-winning 2003 French-Canadian film La Grand Seduction. The film went through many different production iterations, changing directors and producers until the original film’s writer Ken Scott and director Don McKellar formed an alliance and began production. At one point in 2011, Robin Williams was even set to star in the film; however, due to scheduling conflicts it was recast.
Looking for current hits to watch? Check out the new Amazon show The Wheel of Time. This fantasy series is an adaptation of a long line of novels (14 to be exact) from the early 1990s. If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones but want something a bit less gruesome, this is a good bet.
Also on my list:
Don’t Look Up, Netflix
The Morning Show, Apple TV
The Power of The Dog, Netflix
Licorice Pizza, in theatres
