Lies My Father Told Me, based on writer Ted Allan’s real-life childhood, tells the story of six-year-old David, who lives with his parents and grandfather, Zaida, in a Jewish neighborhood in 1920s Montreal. The film centers on David’s close bond with Zaida, a patient and loving rag-and-bone man who spends his days collecting rags and bottles on his horse-drawn wagon. This relationship stands in stark contrast to David’s strained connection with his father, Harry, who constantly chases get-rich-quick schemes but lacks any real direction in life. David often overhears his father’s harsh words about his grandfather, pushing him even further away from the man who should be his role model.
The film was nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the Oscars, won Best Foreign Film at the Golden Globes, and was the highest-grossing Canadian movie of its time. However, it has since faded into obscurity, becoming increasingly difficult to find. At its core, Lies My Father Told Me is an authentic portrayal of childhood, showing how a child’s perception of adults can evolve based on their actions—whether they’re aware of it or not. David is observant enough to recognize that his father is unreliable, naturally gravitating toward his grandfather, who offers him the kind of stability Harry can’t provide.
The film shines in its quieter moments. Zaida’s interactions with David are often gentle, and there’s a sense of mutual respect in how Zaida treats him—not merely as a child but as a person coming into his own. Their shared moments, like riding in the wagon or simply talking, are where the film truly excels. In fact, a more fitting title might have been The Truths My Grandfather Told Me, as David instinctively turns to Zaida for wisdom. The dialogue is sharp and full of character, especially in the way Zaida can immediately sense the situation when his daughter approaches, dryly asking, “How much?” These small exchanges ring true and lend authenticity to the film.
The film stumbles in its broader third-act conflicts. After focusing on the personal dynamics between David, Zaida, and Harry, the sudden introduction of an illness feels rushed and lacks the emotional impact it needs. The supporting cast also struggles at times, with noticeable dubbing issues that can pull you out of key moments. Still, they do manage to bring some life to the community.
Despite these flaws, Lies My Father Told Me remains a touching, authentic portrait of a boy who, in the absence of a strong relationship with his father, finds a surrogate in his grandfather. While it doesn’t fully deliver in its conclusion, the film still offers a heartfelt glimpse into a child’s coming-of-age in a way that feels grounded and sincere.