Preston Manning

"I do see myself as a political scout. And I use the old western analogy that the scout was the guy who rode ahead of the "main company" and tried to see the dangers that were up ahead or the opportunities that were up ahead. And in a sense I've felt that's been my role politically. And I think our "company" still has a need for scouts. And I'm still very much interested in that scouting function." -- Preston Manning

In addition to his remarkable impact on the political scene through the creation of the Reform Party (The Alliance Party), Life and Times of Preston Manning steps away from the world of politics to give viewers insight into his philosophical and personal world views. It chronicles how Manning’s personality, family ties, friends, birthplace, religious environment, and his strong personal values have shaped his political path and in turn the politics of Canada.

The documentary traces Manning's early childhood in Alberta under the influence of his father, former Alberta Premier and radio minister Ernest C. Manning, his university days, his marriage to Sandra Beavis, the founding of the Reform Party, and his role as Leader of the Opposition. Life and Times of Preston Manning profiles the man beyond his much criticized ‘eastern Canada makeover’ – a father, a husband, a cancer survivor and a citizen.