Professor Norman Cornett: 'Since when do we divorce the right answer from an honest answer?' 2009
Alanis Obomsawin's 2009 documentary is a moving portrait of McGill University professor Norman Cornett, whose unorthodox teaching philosophy inspired generations of students.
Director: Alanis Obomsawin
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Professor Norman Cornett: 'Since when do we divorce the right answer from an honest answer?' (2009)* about?
This documentary celebrates the life and teaching philosophy of Norman Cornett, an unconventional McGill University professor whose focus on intellectual honesty over correct answers inspired generations of students. The film documents his dismissal in 2007 and the lasting impact he had on those who learned from him.
Who directed *Professor Norman Cornett: 'Since when do we divorce the right answer from an honest answer?' (2009)*?
The film was directed by Alanis Obomsawin, a celebrated documentarian and activist known for her insightful explorations of Indigenous and social justice themes.
Who stars in *Professor Norman Cornett: 'Since when do we divorce the right answer from an honest answer?' (2009)*?
The documentary features Norman Cornett alongside interviews with his former students and colleagues, all of whom share their experiences with his transformative teaching style.
Is *Professor Norman Cornett: 'Since when do we divorce the right answer from an honest answer?' (2009)* worth watching?
For fans of thought-provoking documentaries, this film offers a rare glimpse into the power of genuine education and the courage required to challenge conventional norms. While it lacks a conventional rating, its emotional resonance and thematic depth make it a compelling watch for anyone interested in teaching, justice, or intellectual integrity.
How long is *Professor Norman Cornett: 'Since when do we divorce the right answer from an honest answer?' (2009)*?
The film has a runtime of 81 minutes.
About Professor Norman Cornett: 'Since when do we divorce the right answer from an honest answer?' (2009) — The documentary that redefines teaching and truth
Alanis Obomsawin's 2009 documentary is a moving portrait of McGill University professor Norman Cornett, whose unorthodox teaching philosophy inspired generations of students. By prioritizing intellectual honesty over rote answers, Cornett sparked lively classroom debates and earned deep admiration from his pupils—yet his career ended abruptly in 2007 after his methods came under fire. This thought-provoking film explores the tension between traditional education and the pursuit of authentic inquiry, capturing the spirit of a man who refused to separate learning from integrity.
Shot over several years, the documentary weaves together interviews with students, colleagues, and Cornett himself to paint a vivid picture of his classroom magic. From spirited discussions on Shakespeare to impassioned defenses of human dignity, the film immerses viewers in an intellectual journey that feels as urgent today as it did during Cornett's teaching tenure. A tribute to both a remarkable educator and the power of unconventional wisdom, *Professor Norman Cornett: 'Since when do we divorce the right answer from an honest answer?' (2009)* challenges audiences to rethink what education—and honesty—can truly mean.