You Won’t Believe the CRAZY Game Inuit Kids Play with a Walrus

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Over the last few years, there’s been a surge in artwork created by North American indigenous communities, offering narratives that blend pride in their heritage with reflections of their lives set against contemporary surroundings. A fresh comedy series called “North of North” debuted on Netflix in April 2025, centering around the Inuk people residing in a town called Ice Cove. Similar to many compelling forms of entertainment, the tale that birthed “North of North” is as heartwarming and inspiring as the show itself.

What Is ‘North of North’ About?

In the indigenous community of Ice Cove resides Siaja (Anne Lembe), a young Inuk woman who’s recently separated from her husband and high school sweetheart, Ting (Kelly Williams). As she embarks on a journey to find her footing within the community and manage relationships with those around her and her family, the series delves into the rich culture of the Inuit people. Critics might claim that this narrative is a common one, featuring a determined woman setting off to explore her own identity.

In a remarkable twist, North of North demonstrates how stories can be reimagined in unique settings with astonishing success. North of North exudes charm and humor that resonates with viewers, while paying tribute to indigenous culture and giving voice to the Inuit people. Interestingly enough, the real-life communities and activities that inspired North of North are as captivating as the show itself. It’s almost as if the show is a mirror reflecting life in an extraordinary way.

The Endearing and Charming Inspiration Behind ‘North of North’

As a dedicated cinema enthusiast, I can’t help but appreciate the heartfelt and enchanting elements that make “North of North” stand out. It’s not just the series itself that’s captivating, but the real-life community that served as a significant source of inspiration for its creators. The creative duo behind this masterpiece, Stacey Aglok-MacDonald and Alethea Arnaquq-Baril, hail from an arctic community much like the fictional Ice Cove. They meticulously infused many aspects of their village life into “North of North” to maintain its authenticity. In a recent conversation with Time Magazine, they were open about their Arctic experiences.

In the realm of this captivating series, one unexpected moment stood out – a game referred to as “walrus-dick baseball.” Initially, I thought it was an imaginative creation of a brilliant screenwriter, but surprisingly, it’s an authentic Arctic pastime. As Arnaquq-Baril explained, “This is our version of baseball, something we grew up playing. The rules vary from community to community, but the essence remains the same. The game you see in the show is a variant played in Alaska.” Walrus, being a significant part of our diet and culture, is not wasted, and that includes its lower appendage. Arnaquq-Baril added, “We wouldn’t let a good walrus dick go to waste.

The depiction of indigenous people in mainstream entertainment carries a rich yet intricate past. Actors such as Adam Beech and Graham Greene have delivered exceptional performances on screen, yet for decades, these roles were often played by non-indigenous actors, including Charles Bronson and Anthony Quinn. Arnaquq-Baril commented on the series’ portrayal of the Inuit people: “Many of us have been depicted as cultures on the verge of extinction, which is far from accurate. Consequently, many Indigenous filmmakers are opting for humor. Most media about us has historically been produced by others, and we’re now diverging from that trend.

Concerning the common misperceptions about life in the Arctic, particularly in the Inuit communities portrayed in “North of North”, Aglok-McDonald emphasized that it’s not as cold, barren, and bleak as often thought. Instead, he expressed that these communities are vibrant, warm, and filled with love. He further stated that our Arctic landscapes are truly stunning and that the people living there aren’t merely struggling to survive; rather, they are thriving and leading rich, fulfilling lives in this region.

Where Can I Watch ‘North of North’?

Currently streaming on Netflix is a hilarious comedy series titled “North of North”, set in the Arctic region. Don’t let it slip by!

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2025-04-19 17:32