Community development and good neighbouring go hand in hand. This statement couldn’t be more accurate, especially in today’s world where a sense of belonging and community has become more important than ever. In Quebec, community development is a major focus, and for good reason. Communities have a significant impact on the individuals living within them and can either propel them forward or hold them back.
To understand the importance of community development, one must look at its evolution throughout the world. The concept of community development can be traced back to the 19th century, where it was primarily focused on poverty alleviation and improving living conditions for the poor. As time progressed, so did the scope of community development. It now encompasses social, economic, and cultural development, and is aimed at creating sustainable communities that are well-resourced, participatory, and democratic.
In Quebec, there are several films that celebrate the power of communities and highlight the importance of community development. Here are some of the most notable films:
Piché, entre ciel et terre (2010)
This film tells the story of flight captain Robert Piché, who managed to land a plane with 304 passengers on board on the Azores Islands after both engines had shut down. The film showcases the incredible resilience of the passengers and their ability to come together as a community in the face of a life-threatening situation. It is a compelling example of how a strong community can achieve anything, no matter the odds.
Monsieur Lazhar (2011)
Monsieur Lazhar follows the story of a high school teacher who steps in to replace a teacher who has committed suicide. The film explores themes of trauma, healing, and community, as the new teacher gradually builds a relationship with his students and helps them come to terms with their loss. The film is an inspiring reminder of the power of education and community in healing and helping one another.
Incendies (2011)
Incendies is a heart-wrenching story of two siblings who discover their family’s tragic past after their mother’s death. The film is a haunting exploration of the scars of war and the power of community in healing. The story brings to life the experiences of millions of refugees around the world and is a powerful reminder of the importance of creating safe and welcoming spaces for those who are forced to flee their homes.
The Neighbour (2016)
A drama film that tells the story of two families who share a house and their struggle to maintain good relations. One family is a young couple with a baby, and the other is an older couple with a teenager. The film highlights the challenges of living with strangers and how communication, compromise, and empathy are crucial for good neighbouring.
Polytechnique (2009)
A docudrama film that depicts the tragic events of the 1989 Montreal Massacre, where a mass shooter killed 14 women at the Polytechnique School. The film explores the aftermath of the shooting and its impact on the survivors, their families, and the community. It shows how solidarity, support, and resilience can help heal wounds and unite a shattered community.
Sashinka (2020)
A comedy-drama film that tells the story of a Russian immigrant, Sashinka, who moves into a Montreal apartment building and has to deal with the eccentricities of her neighbours. The film highlights the multiculturalism and diversity of Montreal and how it can be a source of enrichment and learning, but also of tension and misunderstanding.
Stories We Tell (2012)
A documentary film that investigates the life story of the director’s mother, who died when the director was a child. The film explores the family dynamics, the secrets and lies, and the different perspectives of the family members. It shows how storytelling can be a way of building connections and understanding between people, and how the truth can be elusive and subjective.
These films are not just great examples of the power of community, but they also showcase the role of good neighbouring in community development. Good neighbouring is about creating strong, connected communities where everyone feels valued and supported. It is about fostering relationships, building trust, and creating a sense of belonging.
In summary, these films provide powerful insights into the role of community development and good neighbouring in creating vibrant, sustainable communities. Being part of a community is not just about living side by side, but about coming together, supporting one another, and celebrating our differences. By watching and learning from these films, we can all play a part in creating communities that are welcoming, inclusive, and supportive of all their members.