Being Canadian (2015)

Being Canadian is special because it turns a deceptively simple question—what makes a country a country—into a warm, witty road-trip hangout that feels like a love letter written with a raised eyebrow. Robert Cohen’s genial, self-deprecating quest glides from big-name interviews (Eugene Levy’s charm alone is worth the ticket) to everyday voices, gently poking at stereotypes while letting genuine national pride peek through. The vibe is light, affectionate, and consistently amusing rather than heavy or preachy, the kind of documentary you watch with a smile and finish feeling oddly comforted. If you’re looking for hard-edged investigative journalism, this isn’t it—but if you want an entertaining, good-natured celebration of identity with plenty of laughs, it’s an easy recommendation.

Being Canadian wants to be a light, affectionate road-trip documentary that answers the deceptively big question of what Canadian identity actually is, using celebrity interviews and a Canada Day deadline to keep things moving. The problem is it often feels like it’s ticking off familiar stereotypes and greatest-hits talking points rather than digging into anything surprising, so the humor can start to feel a bit safe and the insights a bit thin. If you’re hoping for a sharper, more analytical look at culture and politics, or even just fresher jokes, this may come off as shallow and mildly pandering. But if you simply want a breezy, feel-good tour of Canada with some charming famous faces and easy patriotism, it’s pleasant enough.