Richard Crouse

This Canada Day, it’s possible to sight-see without leaving the comfort of your home.

Many American films use Canada as a substitute for international locations — look for Casa Loma in the X-Men films, or Simon Fraser University in The Day the Earth Stood Still, for example —but our homegrown cinema highlights our landmarks as our own.

So why not reheat some tourtière (with a side of poutine, of course!), or crack open a bag of ketchup chips, then wash it down with a glass of Niagara Peninsula ice wine and see the country through the eyes of our filmmakers.

Goin’ Down the Road (1970)

The story of Pete (Doug McGrath) and his pal Joey (Paul Bradley), two Maritimers who set out in a Chevy to find a better life in Toronto, (SCTV joked they were looking for “lawyerin’ and doctorin’ jobs”) is a Canadian time capsule circa 1970.

One Week (2008)

The story of a dying man on a road trip is a love letter to Canada, showcasing landmarks — like the world’s biggest hockey stick — but its heartfelt story should appeal to everyone, whether they have the Queen on their money or someone else’s mug.

Jesus of Montreal (1989)

Not only does Saint Joseph’s Oratory represent Montreal in Monopoly: Here and New – The World Edition, it also provides a beautiful backdrop for this classic Canadian film from acclaimed director, Denys Arcand.

waydowntown (2000)

This satire of office life and urban living showcases Calgary’s web of connecting tunnels. You don’t see much of the outdoor life, but it gives you a glimpse of a little-seen aspect of Albertan big city life.

The Snow Walker (2003)

Shot partially in Rankin Inlet, Nunavut, the story of a bush pilot and a sick Inuit woman who must survive after a plane crash features a breathtaking look at Canada’s North, including some beautiful time lapse photography of that natural wonder known as the Northern Lights.