A new documentary questions Canada’s image as a model for the United States. Filmmakers traveled across Canada to interview over 4,500 Canadians about issues like healthcare, affordability, drug policy, immigration, crime, and government spending.
Broken Country, directed by Mira Metter and co-produced by Mike Werry, examines changes in Canadian life over the past two decades. The filmmakers argue that government policies have driven these changes. More than 70 policy experts contributed to the project.
Healthcare Concerns
One man featured in the documentary suffered a spinal injury, waiting 15 hours to see a surgeon. His doctor later claimed that immediate surgery could have led to full recovery. Now, three years later, he experiences chronic pain and can only walk short distances without assistance. While seeking treatment, he was offered Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID), something he felt was a betrayal by the system.
According to the filmmakers, his situation reflects broader issues in Canada’s healthcare system. They highlighted reports indicating over 23,000 Canadian patients died on medical waitlists last year.
Immigration Strains
Metter discussed the impact of immigration on Canada. The country has seen a surge of 2.3 million temporary migrants, including students and workers, in a short period. Toronto, being the largest city, struggles to accommodate this influx, causing gridlocks and straining resources.
Drug Policy and Youth
The documentary also looks at Canada’s drug policies. Safe injection sites and safe supply locations exist, intended to reduce harm from drug use. However, controversy arose, such as when an Ontario high school distributed safe snorting kits to students.
Shared Struggles
Metter noted that Canadians nationwide face similar hardships regardless of political views. Issues like housing affordability, living paycheck to paycheck, and accessing healthcare resonate with many. She emphasized the genuine struggles people face in Canada today.
The film, Broken Country, is set for a limited release on September 18 in theaters across Canada and the U.S., and will be available on Amazon Prime on October 26.
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