The film presents a story of the life of Paul Tomkowicz

The movie tells the tale of Paul Tomkowicz’s life and career in Canada. He draws comparisons between his new life in Winnipeg and his prior one in Poland. Paul was astounded by the level of freedom that Canadians experienced, which was unmatched by the freedom he had previously known. The switchman’s responsibility was to maintain the rail-switches, which would otherwise become clogged with mud and frozen snow throughout the year. Paul, an immigrant worker, is diligent and has worked hard to complete his tasks despite the challenges he faces. The story is of a protagonist displaying the city’s melancholy and not keen on depicting the government agenda which raises suspicion.

The scenes of the film are well arranged and the surrounding displays were instrumental in creating the distinction of the scenes. The mood in the story revolves on both pleasant and sad episodes. The freedom among the Canadians is pleasing and it is disheartening when the Polish continue to languish in bondage. The scary episodes which reveals the mention of the massacre in the village is sad. The faces in the film is crucial as it present the unsung or unnoticed individuals whose input made the community running. The artistic mode and powerful cameras allowed us to learn more about the events that unfolds during the dead night of winter season. The film is crucial in the cross-cultural comparison and influential in enlightening of communities. The social ill in the society and the government not keen on taking action is detrimental to the wellbeing of the people.

Work Cited

Paul Tomkowicz – Street Railway Switchman; Corral; City of Gold; Universe NFB “The World at War” and B-Unit, 1941-1960

George Melnyk, One Hundred Years of Canadian Cinema, University of Toronto Press, 2004