The City Symphony is a venerable documentary film genre now entering its ninth decade. This updated model (the first postmodern example, perhaps?) celebrates that most European of all North American cities, Montreal. Composed entirely of excerpts from 120 films made by the National Film Board of Canada during the 1950s and ’60s, this elegant and unprecedented work fascinates with mercurial changes. From the heavy lifting of the shipyard to the delicate wonders of window-shopping, a wide range of urban experience is set to musical moments from Oscar Peterson to Igor Stravinsky. Unlike the “day in the life” structure of canonical city symphonies, this is a two-decade sweep in the life of Montreal, with glances and nods in every direction. If you enjoy people-watching you will love this film—it is a delight to the eye and ear.  TBW