Officer of the Order of Canada
Awarded on: 2002-10-10
Invested on: 2003-12-12
He is one of Canada's renowned filmmakers. Using his unique and powerful directorial abilities, he explores the sociological and psychological aspects of the human condition. Internationally recognized as a key figure in the evolution of the documentary, he helped to pioneer cinéma vérité and actuality drama. His distinguished body of works covers many film genres and includes such award-winning films as Warrendale, One Night Stand and Who Has Seen The Wind. A staunch supporter of filmmakers' rights, he is a founding member and former president and chief executive officer of the Directors' Guild of Canada.