The hit Canadian television series, “North of North,” recently released all its episodes on Netflix. It charms audiences with the ideal combination of laughter and a deeply human story. Co-creators Stacey Aglok MacDonald and Alethea Arnaquq-Baril magnificently animate a story. It takes place in beautiful Nunavmute, the largest and newest Canadian territory, and capital city Iqaluit. This more recent series magnificently illustrates the culture and spirit of the region. It’s a powerful series that works its audience through the complicated social landscape of generational trauma and resilience, while maintaining an overall uplifting, comedic undertone.
The first season of “North of North” features eight episodes, each focusing on Siaja, played by Anna Lambe. For Siaja, a young Inuk mother, figuring out who she is outside of being known as her husband’s wife comes at a high cost. The series explores her experiences as a new mom and pursuing her dreams. It takes a deep look into her relationship with her mother, Neevee, played by Maika Harper. The relationship between Siaja and Neevee becomes the heart of this narrative. It beautifully illuminates all the dynamic, tender, sudden, messy, hilarious, intimate moments that make up their relationship.
“North of North” is an aesthetic homage to the culture and spirit of the community around Iqaluit. Amidst the blooming beauty of spring, this jubilant season is full of reason to celebrate. The bright, colorful, and fun season belies the weighty topics it tackles. Along with Siaja, the staff at the community center have been extremely important in connecting people to each other. This intimate landscape illuminates the deep community connections and hardships endured by the people of Nunavut.
Through animation and documentary short films, the series celebrates Inuit culture and community. In doing so, it beautifully presents the historical traumas that are inherent to the Indigenous experience. Lambe emphasizes this aspect, stating,
“The show reflects the reality of living within an Indigenous community and the historical traumas and things that we do experience.”
It was important to everyone involved to create a story that felt real and relatable. This technique allows viewers to empathize with the subjects and stories on an intimate level. Filmmaker Arnaquq-Baril made an excellent point about the role of humor in storytelling, saying,
“They’re funny, so that’s like a bottomless pit of stories. A drama would just be really frustrating.”
This comedic approach offers a refreshing perspective on serious topics, making them more accessible to viewers while fostering understanding and empathy.
“North of North” delves into themes of identity, agency, and the complexities of family relationships. Lambe highlights the show’s ability to showcase generational experiences like none other, stating,
“It’s representing a generation of people who grew up in a time period where residential schools were still very much a part of our community and our reality.”
By building these components into the story, “North of North” pushes public discussion around resilience in Indigenous communities. The ebb and flow of life depicted in the series resonates with audiences, capturing both the challenges and triumphs faced by its characters. Lambe reflects on this authenticity:
“There’s such an ebb and flow and that’s just a part of life. It’s represented so authentically.”
This balance of humor and sharp, poignant storytelling is what grants “North of North” its place as a winner on contemporary television. It challenges audiences to face untold stories squarely in the face. Alongside these harsh realities, it paints a nuanced and dynamic picture of the rich culture, community life, and spirit of Nunavut.