That Never Happened

That Never Happened is an incisive documentary that shines a light on one of the grim chapters in Canada's history, chronicling the internment of thousands of Ukrainians and other Eastern Europeans during the First World War. The film exposes a disconcertingly obscure part of Canadian history unfurling the injustices and human rights abuses inflicted upon innocent individuals classified as "enemy aliens." Highlighting an aspect of history that has largely been hidden or erased, the documentary manages to expose how prejudice and fear driven by political expedience can lead to grave injustices.

Directed by Ryan Boyko, That Never Happened presents a poignant narrative through the eyes of the descendants of survivors, historians, artists, and community leaders. Their narratives are skillfully woven together with archival footage and photographs, political documents, drawings, and personal letters, revealing deeply stirring accounts of how internees and their families were affected.

The film features John Boxtel, a passionate and inspired artist who creates sculptures to memorialize these significant historical episodes that had been swept under the rug. John Boxtel's extraordinary piece of art graces the cover of the film's poster, evoking a sense of shock and intrigue as it portrays a face pressed against barbed wire representing the constrained lives of those interned.

The well-known Canadian journalist Peter Mansbridge provides the authoritative narration in the film, guiding audiences through this unsettling journey of discovery peppered with human stories of survival, longing, and resistance. His masterful storytelling enriches the tapestry of the film, adding a layer of stark authenticity and gravity to the events recounted.

Andrea Malysh, a program manager of the Canadian First World War Internment Recognition Fund, takes on a prominent role in the film. Her personal journey of discovery and her tireless commitment to recognizing and remembering the sacrifices and struggles of the internees serve as a meaningful thread throughout the film. Her involvement roots the documentary in a determined and honest quest for the truth, lending a personal touch to a world shrouded in injustices and silence.

Historical misinterpretations and misconceptions are rectified throughout That Never Happened, showing how fearmongering and xenophobia have shaped societal views and left stigmas and difficulties for the descendants. The documentary provides insights into the darker side of history and humanity, never letting the viewers forget that, in some respects, history moves in cycles.

This heartrending journey through a highly significant event in the history of Canada takes its title literally. That Never Happened reflects not just the denial and negligence of a particular historical event but provokes viewers to contemplate how many such instances occur globally but vanish in the abyss of forgotten pasts due to the failure or unwillingness of society to remember them.

The usage of rare archival footage, coupled with impressionistic animation, permeates the film, constructing a cinematic ambiance that immerses the audience in the period. The script is fastidiously researched and meticulously presented, making strong use of survivor records and providing a unique perspective from descendants themselves.

In essence, That Never Happened is not merely a historical exposé but also a timely discourse on how fear-based policies can result in grievous harm to innocent lives. It is, thus, a thought-provoking, touching, and revealing documentary that is likely to make you question how much of history has been intentionally or unintentionally erased and, indeed, how erasure could be happening even today. The film reminds us that preserving the truth about our past is crucial to avoiding recurrence of such appalling injustices. It stands as a testament to the significance of history and memory, challenging viewers to query what they know and what they believe to know about their world.