Overview

Harry Gulkin (November 14, 1927 – July 23, 2018) was a Canadian film producer, director and screenwriter who played a notable role in Montreal's cultural life. Born in Montreal, Quebec, he worked across cinema and arts administration and is best known for producing the acclaimed film Lies My Father Told Me.

Early life and career

Gulkin began his professional life in the mid-20th century in Montreal, moving into film production and creative work as Canadian cinema developed. While details of his early training are less documented than his later credits, he became active in producing and supporting projects that reflected local stories and community experiences.

Notable film work

Gulkin produced the 1975 family drama Lies My Father Told Me, a film set in a Jewish working-class neighborhood that attracted international attention. The picture earned a Golden Globe for best foreign film and received an Academy Award nomination for its screenplay. The film remains a touchstone in Canadian screen history for its intimate storytelling and period depiction.

Arts administration and influence

From 1983 to 1987 Gulkin served as director of the Saidye Bronfman Centre for the Arts in Montreal, a multidisciplinary institution that fosters visual and performing arts. In that role he oversaw programming, outreach and support for emerging artists, contributing to the city's cultural infrastructure during a period of growth for community arts organizations.

Legacy and death

Gulkin is remembered as a producer who helped bring socially rooted Canadian stories to wider audiences and as an administrator who advocated for arts access in Montreal. He died in Montreal on July 23, 2018 at the age of 90 from pneumonia, leaving a record of both cinematic and institutional contributions to Canadian culture.

Selected roles and facts

  • Occupations: film producer, director, screenwriter, arts administrator.
  • Best-known film: Lies My Father Told Me (producer).
  • Administrative post: director of the Saidye Bronfman Centre for the Arts (1983–1987).
  • Born and died in Montreal, Quebec.