A Canadian classic. Restored for a new journey.
October 20, 2026 – Toronto – National Film Board of Canada (NFB)
The National Film Board of Canada (NFB) and Ontario independent cinema pioneer John Tutt are bringing Bill Mason’s Waterwalker back to theatres in a stunning new 4K restoration, marking the 40th anniversary of its original theatrical release.
Made over a period of eight years, Waterwalker is part adventure, part visual poem. This milestone documentary follows the legendary filmmaker, author and outdoorsman on a solitary canoe journey as he paddles from the vast waters of Lake Superior into the winding rivers and quiet headwaters of the Canadian Shield. Along the way, Mason paints the landscapes that move him and reflects on the enduring relationship between nature, creativity and the waters that shape us all.
More than a nature documentary, Waterwalker is an invitation to slow down, listen and rediscover the beauty of the world around us. Featuring stunning cinematography and an original score by Bruce Cockburn and Hugh Marsh, this landmark Canadian classic remains as moving today as it was four decades ago, offering audiences a rare opportunity to reconnect with nature through one of Canada’s most beloved NFB films.
Rebecca Mason, canoeist, artist, conservationist and Bill Mason’s daughter, and James Raffan, canoeist, environmentalist, writer, speaker and author of the Bill Mason biography Fire in the Bones, will attend select screenings.
Screening schedule
- Thursday, November 12, at 4 & 7 p.m.: Princess Twin Cinema, Waterloo
- Post-screening Q&A with Rebecca Mason and James Raffan
- Thursday, November 12, at 7:30 p.m.: Original Princess Cinema
- Post-screening Q&A with Rebecca Mason and James Raffan
- Friday, November 13, at 4:00 p.m.: Original Princess Cinema
- Saturday, November 14, at 2:00 p.m.: Original Princess Cinema
- Sunday, November 15, at 1:45 p.m.: Original Princess Cinema
- Friday, November 13, at 7 p.m.: Playhouse Cinema, Hamilton
- Rebecca Mason and James Raffan in attendance
- Sunday, November 15, at 4 p.m.: Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema, Toronto
- Rebecca Mason in attendance
- Thursday, November 19, at 7 p.m.: Opening Night Film, SOAR Outdoor Adventure Film Festival, Sudbury Indie Cinema
Quotes
“We are thrilled with the NFB’s 40th-anniversary restoration and re-release of my father’s masterpiece Waterwalker. He would have been so excited to experience the superb image and sound quality of Waterwalker in 4K. It is remarkable that his message of caring for the land is even more important, timely and relevant 40 years later. Thank you, NFB!”
– Rebecca Mason
“Working with minimal crews and hauling heavy 16-mm equipment deep into the wilderness, Mason wrote, directed, edited and starred in many of his films. Meticulously restored by the National Film Board of Canada, the original 16-mm footage now glows with vivid colour and remarkable clarity. Featuring breathtaking cinematography by Ken Buck and a soaring score by Bruce Cockburn and Hugh Marsh, Waterwalker remains a powerful celebration of Canada’s lakes, rivers and wild places—an unforgettable experience best seen on the big screen.”
– John Tutt, Founder and Owner, Princess Cinemas
About Bill Mason
Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Bill Mason (1929–1988) was a visionary Canadian director, animator, cinematographer, author, canoeist, naturalist and wilderness artist whose work left a lasting mark on both cinema and outdoor culture.
Over two decades at the NFB, Mason wrote, directed, shot, edited and, frequently, animated more than 20 films, blending technical mastery with a profound respect for the natural world. Works such as Paddle to the Sea (1966) and The Rise and Fall of the Great Lakes (1968) showcased his ability to combine storytelling, breathtaking visuals and environmental insight.
Wolves captivated him, inspiring documentaries such as Death of a Legend (1971), Cry of the Wild (1972) and Wolf Pack (1974). Cry of the Wild, his only feature-length film, became the NFB’s most commercially successful feature, grossing over a million dollars in its first week.
Canoeing was central to the life of Mason, who refined Canadian-style paddling techniques and shared them through films such as Song of the Paddle (1978) and his books—works that remain essential for paddlers and outdoor enthusiasts. His artistry extended to painting, illustration and environmental advocacy. His beloved red Chestnut Prospector canoe now resides at the Canadian Canoe Museum. Throughout his long career, Mason earned four Canadian Film Awards, two BAFTAs and two Academy Award nominations.
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Screening links and interviews are available by request.
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Jennifer Mair
NFB Publicist
C.: 416-436-0105
j.mair@nfb.ca | @NFB_Jennifer
Magalie Boutin
Director, Communications, Public and Cultural Relations, NFB
C.: 514-233-8646
m.boutin@nfb.ca | @NFB_Magalie
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