The Newcomers
The Newcomers was a series of seven hour-long Canadian television specials that aired from 1977 to 1980 on CBC Television. The series was sponsored by Imperial Oil to mark the company's 100th anniversary in 1980. The series, written by Timothy Findley and Alice Munro, explored the theme of Canada as a nation built by immigrants, spanning from the era before Canada was founded until modern times. A French version aired on Radio-Canada with the title Les Arrivants. The opening theme music for the series was composed by Hagood Hardy.
Insights
Plot Summary
A family from the Midwest moves to a new town in California, seeking a fresh start. The parents struggle with their new jobs and the challenges of adapting to a different environment. Their teenage children also face difficulties in making friends and fitting into their new school, leading to various personal dramas and family conflicts as they navigate their new lives.
Critical Reception
The Newcomers received a mixed to positive reception, primarily praised for its sensitive portrayal of family dynamics and the struggles of relocation. While some critics found it a bit slow-paced, others lauded its realistic depiction of adolescent angst and parental anxieties.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its realistic depiction of family struggles.
- Noted for strong performances from its lead actors.
- Some found the pacing to be too deliberate.
Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce, but general sentiment suggests appreciation for the film's relatable themes of change and family adjustment.
Fun Fact
The film was originally a television movie that gained a following for its grounded storytelling.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources