Justin Beiber, beavers, equality, maple syrup, and "Degrassi," are just some of the concepts and terms associated with Canada and Canadian identity. One aspect that is often unlisted are Canadian films. While some Canadian directed films have become feature length hits, there are much lesser known ones that may be worth watching. Canadian films often mimic Canada's’ diverse population. They utilize cinematic tools to help push the envelope in terms of content, with areas that border uncertainty and uneasiness. Here are a few Canadian films:

1."C.R.A.Z.Y." by Jean-Marc Vallée



Winner of numerous Genie awards, and an Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television Award for best screenplay, this film follows the life of an adolescent boy.Confused with his sexuality and at odds with his traditional Catholic upbringing, Zachary Beaulieu struggles to remain true to himself and appease his family’s beliefs.

2. "Gabrielle" by Louise Archambault



This film captures the life of a young woman with Williams syndrome. It shows her struggle for independence and highlights her musical talents. Praised by audiences, this film was selected for Best Foreign Language Film at the 86th Academy Awards, but was not nominated.

3."The Husband" by Bruce McDonald



Taking a spin on traditional gender roles, this film enters the life of a man left to be a single parent to his infant son. This is after his wife is imprisoned for having sex with a minor.

4. "River" by Jamie M. Dagg



This film ventures outside Canadian borders, as it follows the life of an American volunteer doctor, who becomes a suspect after he intervenes in a sexual assault.

5. "I Killed My Mother" by Xavier Dolan



In this dramatic biographical film, it showcases the complex depth between a mother and her son.