Library and Archives Canada
Published on Jul 28, 2014

Introducing Canadian and German Military Positions at Vimy Ridge, 1917. 

Item number (ISN): 188460

"Canadian Official War Films" series

Part 1: In Action with Our Canadian Troops

This film is the first part of a series that gives an account of Canadians in the Battle of Vimy Ridge, April 9-12, 1917. An impression of the battle is created through the use of 1916 footage from the British-made film, In Action with Our Canadian Troops and 1917 footage from Vimy Ridge. This film includes animated graphics of a map of the battle, which shows the initial dispositions, divisional boundaries and the three phases of the Canadian offence, all interspersed with actual material. Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry is shown parading with the standard presented to that regiment by Princess Patricia. The regiment heads towards "Prowse Point," the shallow, waterlogged trench that forms the junction of the British and Canadian lines. The Canadian War Records Office supervised the work of cameramen filming the Canadian Forces overseas.

Part 2: Footage on Ypres, 1914-1918.

This film gives an account of Canadians in battle at Ypres. Scenes include footage of deserted trenches, and horse-drawn military wagons loaded with supplies moving towards the front lines. It also depicts an officer directing artillery from behind sandbags while using a periscope. The Canadian War Records Office supervised the work of cameramen filming the Canadian Forces overseas.