Successfully Unsubscribed

Please allow up to 10 days for your unsubscription request to be processed.

Explore Indigenous Culture With Netflix's "North of North"

Movies & TV

By Patricia A.

- Apr 29, 2025

Netflix's recent addition, "North of North", presents an engaging exploration into the Inuit culture, set in the confines of the small town, Ice Cove in Nunavut. Echoing principles from popular shows like “Reservation Dogs” and “Parks & Recreation,” the new series skillfully blends comedy, emotion, and the all-too-human struggle of finding oneself amidst cultural and personal constraints.

The narrative revolves around a vivacious character, Siaja, played by Anna Lambe. She is a 26-year old woman who has just left her egocentric husband, Ting, portrayed by Kelly William and relocates to her mother Neevee's (Maika Harper) home along with her young daughter, Bun. Her life's complexities escalate due to her jobless state, harsh judgment from the town's women, and the sudden appearance of Alistair (Jay Ryan) and Kuuk (Braeden Clarke), government analysts assessing the town's appropriateness for a new Arctic research station.

In her dire situation, Siaja seeks employment from Ice Cove’s town planner, Helen (Mary Lynn Rajskub) and lands a role as an executive assistant, challenged with bringing more cultural events to their town. The narrative progresses with a balance of lighter and darker elements, including poignant revelations about Siaja’s family history and the harsh realities lurking in otherwise seemingly charming characters.

The chemistry between Lambe and Maika Harper stands out through their shared, turbulent history. Harper's portrayal of a mother fighting her own demons of alcoholism and guilt, and seeking redemption, is deeply moving. The subplot's focus on abusive residential schools further intensifies the emotional depth of the series.

Explore Indigenous Culture With Netflix's \

Like many women, Siaja craves an identity beyond her roles as a wife, mother, and daughter. Her perseverance and aspiration for a better life, even amidst her uncertain circumstances, make her a character to root for.

While giving life to its characters, the series also offers insightful commentary on the everyday struggles of life, affected by natural forces. Throughout, there are heartwarming and humorous interactions with community elders and fellow town natives, further enriching the narrative.

The series does not spoon-feed viewers with explicit explanations, maintaining an air of mystery around the Inuit culture. The refreshing direction, editing keeping comedy at the forefront, and a soundtrack featuring hits from Britney Spears and Alanis Morissette, add to the series' zest.

While "North of North" has occasional dips in writing, it remains an engrossing journey of exploration that anyone, regardless of their background, can relate to. A tale of resilience and identity, "North of North" promises to reel you in and keep you captivated. The entire season is now available for viewing on Netflix.

OUR RATING

8 / 10

An evocative journey into Inuit culture and the complexities of small-town life and identity, brought to life through the delightful chaos and raw authenticity of Netflix's latest series, "North of North".