Who Has Seen the Wind (1977 film)


Who Has Seen the Wind is a 1977 Canadian drama film directed by Allan King and written by Patricia Watson. The film is an adaptation of W. O. Mitchell's influential novel Who Has Seen the Wind. It was the first narrative feature film ever directed by King, who was previously known primarily as a documentary filmmaker.
The film stars Brian Painchaud as Brian O'Connall, with a supporting cast including Douglas Junor, Patricia Hamilton, Gordon Pinsent, Helen Shaver, Chappelle Jaffe, Charmion King, Leslie Carlson and José Ferrer.
Although Painchaud received positive critical attention for his performance, it was the only film he ever made before his death in 1986.

Synopsis

The story revolves around Brian, a young boy who lives a magical life on the Canadian prairies catching prairie dogs and playing with friends. The magic ends when his father falls ill, and he witnesses the harsh realities of adult life. This coming-of-age story provides a poignant look at life on the prairies during the Great Depression.

Reception

The film was awarded the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television's Golden Reel Award in 1978 as the top-grossing Canadian film of the previous year, with a gross of $1.2 million. It was nominated for a Gold Hugo at the 1978 Chicago International Film Festival.