Wednesday, January 7, 2009

The Snow Walker

Barry Pepper  d/ Charles Martin Smith

1953  A tubercular Inuit woman and a hotshot Canadian bush pilot crash land in the high arctic. This film is an account of their mutual struggle for survival. It evolves into an Ada Blackjack story as it becomes clear to both of them that her skills and knowledge are more valuable than his. 

The film works wonderfully, in part because of the harrowing location shooting, native casting and the obvious care taken with verisimilitude. The two leads played beautifully against each other; their mutual respect and affection grew organically from the steps they took to secure food, clothing, etc. The caribou hunt was a highlight.

Adapted from a novel by Farley Mowat. Financed by the Canadian Film Board.

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