In this epic and moving story, Romano, a recent immigrant, is forced to unearth his courage after being arrested without charge in his Ville-Émard home. Torn from the arms of his terrified and pregnant wife, Maria, Romano is held against his will with hundreds of men of Italian descent in a war camp in Petawawa, Ontario. Canada has officially declared war against Italy. In the meantime his family and friends must find the strength and spirit to move forward. This powerful drama details the struggle to preserve morality in a nation seemingly intent on its demise. Paradise by the River acknowledges the 70th anniversary of the internment of Italian-Canadians.