the rankin file: legacy of a radical
FEATURE DOCUMENTARY
DOXA Opening Gala Film 2018
The Rankin File: Legacy of a Radical is a documentary investigation into the colorful and controversial life of Vancouver socialist icon, Harry Rankin.
Vancouver, 1986. The Expo World’s Fair has just ended and the future of the city is at stake. Harry Rankin – World War II veteran, criminal lawyer, city councillor and outspoken socialist – is running for mayor against a young, right-wing upstart named Gordon Campbell.
The film chronicles Harry’s nearly fifty-year career beginning with his World War II military service as a soldier, twice wounded in combat. His worldview altered by his wartime experience, Harry sets out to build a working-class political movement in Vancouver that puts power in the hands of the people.
With nearly three decades having passed since original filming began, The Rankin File provides context and commentary only possible with hindsight. What can we learn from the successes– and failures – of Harry Rankin?