The Golden Handshake

About This Movie

The Golden Handshake is a fascinating little gem from 1973, starring Arthur Hill as an executive grappling with the fallout of unemployment. It’s a CBC-TV drama that captures the bleakness of corporate life and personal despair, all set against the urban backdrop of Toronto. The pacing is deliberately slow, allowing the weight of the protagonist's plight to really sink in. The performances, particularly Hill's, carry a heavy emotional weight, and there’s a certain rawness to the production that feels very authentic. It’s noteworthy for its exploration of themes like identity and self-worth, which resonate even today.

The Golden Handshake is quite a rarity among collectors, primarily due to its limited broadcast history and the obscurity of its director. It’s often overshadowed by more prominent TV films of the era, yet it holds a certain appeal for those interested in Canadian television history. There’s not much in the way of physical media releases, making it a bit of a treasure hunt for dedicated collectors who appreciate its unique take on social themes.