Synopsis
More than a million years ago, glaciers began to carve out the bed of what the Algonquins called Magtogoek, better known today as the St. Lawrence River. Over the centuries, man has settled and exploited the fabulous riches of this river, which looks and feels like an ocean. Through the story of this quiet giant, this short animated film pays tribute to all the rivers of the world and calls for their preservation.
A word from Tënk
If I had to pick only one film about the St. Lawrence River, it would be this one. The final film directed by the great Frédéric Back encapsulates the river’s history and poetry. In 24 minutes, it covers more than 400 years of history in a universal language, the very language that runs through all of Back’s work, and made him so widely celebrated across the globe. But it’s not the fame that we will retain. On the contrary, it is the humility of an artist whose entire work is driven by a single and inexhaustible cause: the defense and celebration of the beauty and riches of nature. Viewing his work first and foremost as a tool to raise awareness, he is an unparalleled precursor of environmental cinema. He puts forward a patient and ingeniously precise craftsmanship. The Mighty River, with its simple poetry, hand drawings, discreet lights, and fluid rhythm, is a fundamental film. It gives our river a name that is both fitting and evocative of its deep nature: Magtogoek.
Jean-Philippe Catellier
Programming and Broascasting Manager
Paraloeil
Presented in collaboration with
