Synopsis
This socially-driven film explores the impact of technological changes on the city of Saint-Jérôme, which faced a severe socio-economic crisis in the 1960s, mirroring issues in other Quebec cities. Citizens from all social classes come together in a monumental effort to address the crisis. The film serves as both a reflection of this situation and a catalyst for action, acting as a mediation tool between technology and those affected, and facilitating participation in the reorganization of society.
A word from Tënk
I have very few words to describe the privilege, even the delight, of assisting Fernand in his film projects for over twenty years. Working with him is not just about being close to a vast accumulation of experiences and stories of cinema; it is about fully breathing in the art of making documentary films.
On set, with this loyal team, lunch breaks are exhilarating moments where discussions about cinema are endless. I remember Saint-Jérôme. He told us that with that film, he had entered a phase where he declared that cinema is about relationships. He wrote a text about it in 1978, which I savored:
"Relational cinema is a type of cinema that gives as much attention and importance to the relationships in front of and behind the camera as to the film itself. Moreover, cinema is only beautiful, regardless of its apparent technical splendors, when the relationship to reality is strong and true. Being in a relationship is, perhaps above all, about learning to consider the other as worthy of fighting alongside oneself."
I have been profoundly impacted by the relationships Fernand Dansereau establishes in life, on set, and in his films.
Sylvie Lapointe
Filmmaker
