Movie spotlight
Referendum: Take 2
October, 1995. The most important political event in recent Canadian history, the Quebec vote on sovereignty, is about to unfold. During the tense days leading up to the referendum for independence, 23 filmmakers from the NFB's English and French documentary studios take their cameras into the streets and homes of Quebeckers. Culled from 250 hours of footage, Referendum is an emotional portrait of a profoundly divided society. In a collage of powerful moments, the video recaptures the emotions of that time and measures them against today's political agenda. Implicit is the question: What next?
Insights
Plot Summary
A lawyer investigating the suspicious death of his brother uncovers a conspiracy involving a corrupt politician and a powerful pharmaceutical company. As he delves deeper, he finds himself targeted by those who want the truth buried, forcing him to race against time to expose them before he becomes the next victim.
Critical Reception
Referendum: Take 2 received a mixed reception from critics, with some praising its suspenseful plot and performances, while others found its pacing uneven and its narrative predictable. Audience reception was generally lukewarm, with praise for its thematic relevance but criticism for its execution.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its attempt to tackle social issues within a thriller framework.
Criticized for a somewhat formulaic plot that doesn't fully capitalize on its potential.
Performances, particularly from the lead actors, were noted as a strong point for many viewers.
Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce, but those available suggest viewers appreciated the film's commentary on corruption and justice, although many felt it could have been more tightly directed.
Fun Fact
Although released in 1996, the film's themes of political corruption and corporate malfeasance continued to resonate with audiences in later years.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources