The Chairmaker and the Boys
This short fictional film evokes rural life in Cape Breton’s Margaree Valley, with its rich colours, bright sunshine, and crystal-clear streams. The film tells the story of a young boy and his grandfather, a carpenter with a hearing impairment. The young boy frolics joyfully in the rural landscape, but eventually he’ll need to learn a lesson from his grandfather about safety, responsibility, and maturity. The film features original music by Maurice Blackburn, one of Canada’s foremost composers.
This short fictional film evokes rural life in Cape Breton’s Margaree Valley, with its rich colours, bright sunshine, and crystal-clear streams. The film tells the story of a young boy and his grandfather, a carpenter with a hearing impairment. The young boy frolics joyfully in the rural landscape, but eventually he’ll need to learn a lesson from his grandfather about safety, responsibility, and maturity. The film features original music by Maurice Blackburn, one of Canada’s foremost composers.
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producerTim Wilson
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executive producerNicholas Balla
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scriptGrant Crabtree
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cameraGrant Crabtree
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soundKathleen Shannon
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editingRobert Russell
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sound recordingRon Alexander
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musicMaurice Blackburn
Warnings: It is suggested that Grandfather spanks Duncan after he makes a poor decision.
While watching the film, take notes on the physical geography of this part of Cape Breton. Identify human impacts on the physical geography in this area by commenting on land settlement and possible industries of the area. Describe the relationship between Duncan and his grandfather. How is Duncan learning traditional skills from his grandfather? Contrast this mass production of items like chairs that would traditionally have been made in a millhouse.
More educational content
The Chairmaker and the Boys, , provided by the National Film Board of Canada