Magnetic North: Voices from the Indigenous Arctic @ The British Museum Review

A thoughtful observation between the past, present and the future, Border Crossings’ Magnetic North: Voices from the Indigenous Arctic – forming part of their ORIGINS Festival in conjunction with Arctic: culture and climate exhibition – presents a profound filmic introspection addressing climate change.

Kiliii Yuyan‘s awe inspiring visuals encapsulate the Arctic’s magnificence, aerial shots of the world’s most Northerly part of the world forming the film’s signature aesthetic. Sweeping shots capture the Arctic’s continuous expanse, an expanse home to Inuit communities and wildlife unique to the region. Landscape shots putting into perspective just how small we all are in the grand scheme of things.

Ismael Angaluuk Hope, Hivshu, Taqralik Patridge, Laakkuluk William Bathory provide the film’s poetic and storytelling heart, paying respects to elders integral to the Inuit way of life, the contributions of their ancestors important to acknowledge and carry forward. The Tlingit word “Shukát Khu.oo.” meaning “the people who are at the forefront or the people who are behind” showcasing just how significant the past is in shaping the present and future. Themes of climate change, cultural heritage, community, the world around resonating throughout. Elisabeth Heilmann Blind‘s masked dance performance powerful, showcasing a strength and rootedness.

Torgeir Vassvik‘s composition’s beautifully compliment the film’s themes of community, ancestry and our planet earth – drums flutes and vocals channeling the film’s organic and earthy feel. Activists Mary-Rose Craig and Caitlyn Baikie further adding to the thoughtful nature of the film as they discuss the Arctic’s future, and what this could look like for generations to come. A thought provoking angle to Magnetic North tackling the issue of climate change. A profound watch.

Review by Lucy Basaba.

Magnetic North: Voices from the Indigenous Arctic was shown on Thursday 3rd December as part of Border Crossings’ ORIGINS Festival in conjunction with Arctic: culture and climate exhibition. To find out more about Border Crossings, visit here…