North of North

It's amazing to see the far North appearing in a good show! The show's town is fictional and called "Ice Cove", but it is almost entirely filmed in the real-life far Northern community of Iqaluit, Nunavut (Canada).

North of North is cute, clever, and full of really likeable characters already, and it's only two episodes in, at time of this review. Excellently cast, and fantastic that the main character (Siaja) is played by Anna Lambe, who is herself an Inuk woman from Iqaluit.

Big appreciation for Inuit culture being well, genuinely, and just naturally repped throughout, from the language (spoken and written in parts here and there), clothing, womens' hand and facial tattoos, traditional games, and more. Traditional ways are blended with modern (colonial) ways, which is accurately what you will find in this part of the Northern Arctic and Subarctic region, today.

I'm really hoping this show sticks around; I'd love to see much more of this cast and this story!

Earnest, fresh, engaging show that showcases the beauty and challenges of Northern life through unique, contemporary Inuit-centered stories. Lots of heart while also quirky and hilarious. I'm really rooting for Siaja - she's messy, funny, driven, beautiful, whip-smart and resourceful... It was very easy to fall in love with her, her family and community. There was obvious thought and care put in every aspect of the production, it gives the show a very believable feel - this doesn't feel like a folklorized, frozen (pun!) -in-time version of Nunavut, rather a real, current place. I don't doubt it will boost interest in tourism and fashion from the region (the characters wear some truly gorgeous items of clothing and jewelry!!). Streamed on CBC gem every Tuesday and sad I'll have to wait a while for more - because there will be more, right?!

I found very refreshing to watch a show that takes place in territories that we never see on screen (except maybe in sordid films about the far north). I loved discovering Inuk actors, the language, the music, the culture ... The story of this woman who finds herself stuck in her daily life and who seeks to build her own identity outside of her family is super interesting and is totally relatable. I'll remember a sweet and comforting show, we become attached to all the characters, in short, I loved it, and I will be waiting for season 2 ! (I'm going to listen to the playlist in more detail right now)

I really love this series, the casting is great. I can truly identify with Siaja and the way she is treated by her husband. Wish I had been able to make a break when I was young like her. I love the story line with her father. It's good to see the actor who plays him, again. He gives such heart to the character of Alistaire. And, I really like the actor who plays Kuuk, Jeremy from SkyMed. I sure hope there will be more episodes, seems like it was just starting to get deep the last few episodes. It's so refreshing to see something new on TV that hasn't already been done a million times over. I love the mix of the youth with the seniors in the show. And the community feel. Also the length of each episode is a good length if you are just looking for something to watch when you don't have a lot of time.

I'm thrilled this original show found its feet. Well-written, directed, and acted. The characters have a lovely blend of authenticity and comedy. Each episode has heart and humour. Well done, CBC! Keep commissioning these gorgeous nation-loving gems.

I don't feel the need to say a whole lot more. If you're new to the show and unsure, keep watching. You'll get hooked soon enough. It is delightfully quirky, unique in storylines, and some wonderful, uncomfortably awkward moments that push the stories forward. I also deeply appreciate an insight into the Inuit culture, especially from an everyday (albeit TV sitcom) point of view.