Along Newfoundland's Shores

From river to sea, and back to river again, this film follows the arduous life cycles of east- and west-coast salmon, revealing both the perils of nature and the threats posed by man. Vivid close-ups capture exciting moments when the salmon hatch, jump rapids, and perform their intricate spawning ritual. Other footage examines the Canadian government's programs to protect the salmon runs. The film makes it clear that the continuation of indiscriminate high-seas salmon fishing could prove fatal to one of the world's most important food and industrial resources.

Among these lively impressions of Newfoundland today, coloured by history and by the sea, there are scenes of historic events, fishing on the high seas and squid jigging inshore, mining deep underground, and operations of the giant pulp and paper industry.

Richly woven of fine threads that mingle and separate, surface and disappear, this poetic documentary studies the works of one of Canada's greatest contemporary etchers: Newfoundland-born David Blackwood. The artist himself guides the viewer through a step-by-step explanation of the entire etching process. Scenes of his hometown outport, examples of his masterfully crafted prints, and the vivid tales of an old mariner recall the tragic seal hunts and a way of life that has now vanished.