Special Event
  • Special Guest

Association of Canadian Archivists presents Back to God’s Country

April 15, 2026

1:00 PM ADT

Free

English

The Association of Canadian Archivists presents a new restoration of the 1919 classic Back to God's Country, the first Canadian feature film, which was considered lost and rediscovered in an archive. The screening will be accompanied by a discussion about the importance of archives, hosted by Michael Marlatt, and featuring Christina Stewart of the University of Toronto, Tom McSorley of the Canadian Film Institute, and Piers Handling, TIFF Ceo Emeritus.

No Ticket Required.

Film Playing


Back to God’s Country

Director David Hartford
Run Time 73min
Genre Action/Adventure
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Summary

The first (and earliest surviving) feature film made in Canada by Canadians, Back to God’s Country tells the story of Delores LeBeau, who goes on a treacherous journey to the Arctic with her husband on a vessel captained secretly by the man who murdered her father. In a tense and action-packed sequence, Delores must save her husband from the malicious Rydal and survive in the unfamiliar Arctic conditions.

Written and starring female filmmaking pioneer and creative powerhouse of the silent era, Nell Shipman, this is also the most successful silent film in Canadian history and is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2019.

Cast Nell Shipman, Charles Arling, Wheeler Oakman, Wellington A. Playter

Ratings by Province or Territory

NR
Alberta
NR
British Columbia
NR
Manitoba
G
New Brunswick
NR
Newfoundland and Labrador
G
Nova Scotia
NR
Northwest Territories
NR
Nunavut
NR
Ontario
G
Prince Edward Island
G
Québec
NR
Saskatchewan
NR
Yukon

Guests

Christina Stewart


Piers Handling


Tom McSorley



Event Primary Language

English

Event Details

The film and discussion will be available for 48 hours and is available here: https://watch.canfilmday.ca/landing/377851272

No Ticket Required.

Apr
15
Association of Canadian Archivists presents Back to God’s Country
1:00 PM – 3:30 pm, ADT
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