The Eskimo stories and legends have an almost spellbinding power over people just as much today as they have for hundreds of years. Living out on the ice of the Canadian arctic, the Inuit people live some of the toughest lives on earth. Each day is a challenge as they cope with frigid temperatures, lack of food and other natural disasters.
For thousands of years the Inuit have struggled with the brutal cold and harsh conditions of the frozen north. This place has really helped to create a world view that is unlike any other. The belief system is based more on fear than anything else. Many of the stories focus on the people's collective fear of a natural disaster or some type of bad luck befalling them.
The Inuit are painfully aware that even a short run of bad luck could easily wipe out a family or community. With this constantly on their minds they are very careful to observe many rituals and avoid bringing about the anger of the spirits. Both good and bad spirits are thought to inhabit the world and in some cases people can be possessed.
The beliefs are unique because there are no gods to worship or rulers to praise. An Inuit story is more likely to be about the rituals and taboos that are an integral part of life on the ice. The people are far more focused on making it through this world than worrying about the next. There is no notion of heaven or hell, no eternal damnation or punishment. Living on the ice is punishment enough for these people.
Although most people know little or nothing of the Inuit beliefs a recent movie is helping to change that. Atanarjuat is the name of the central character and means the fast runner. Indeed Atanarjuat is able to outrun his enemies and avoid being killed because he is a very swift runner, even across the ice. The story is long and complex and a significant part of the oral tradition of these native people.
In 2001 the movie Atanarjuat - The Fast Runner made its premier. This movie is unique in that it was made from one of most popular and best remembered of all Inuit stories. Atanarjuat goes through many trials, these include death threats, fear, pain and betrayal. He has to make difficult decisions that affect not only himself but all those in his tight knit group.
The movie is extremely powerful and met with instant critical acclaim. The simple message is timeless and the native actors give stunning performances. The incredible scenery out on the ice is unforgettable and the movie has been shown to audiences around the world. The story is so compelling and presents aspects of life most of us have never thought about.
The Canadian made movie Atanarjuat - The Fast Runner has been highly acclaimed both at home and abroad. It tells of a famous legend that has been passed down for hundreds of years. It shows that the Eskimo stories are still as powerful today as they have always been. Audiences have given the movie very high ratings.
For thousands of years the Inuit have struggled with the brutal cold and harsh conditions of the frozen north. This place has really helped to create a world view that is unlike any other. The belief system is based more on fear than anything else. Many of the stories focus on the people's collective fear of a natural disaster or some type of bad luck befalling them.
The Inuit are painfully aware that even a short run of bad luck could easily wipe out a family or community. With this constantly on their minds they are very careful to observe many rituals and avoid bringing about the anger of the spirits. Both good and bad spirits are thought to inhabit the world and in some cases people can be possessed.
The beliefs are unique because there are no gods to worship or rulers to praise. An Inuit story is more likely to be about the rituals and taboos that are an integral part of life on the ice. The people are far more focused on making it through this world than worrying about the next. There is no notion of heaven or hell, no eternal damnation or punishment. Living on the ice is punishment enough for these people.
Although most people know little or nothing of the Inuit beliefs a recent movie is helping to change that. Atanarjuat is the name of the central character and means the fast runner. Indeed Atanarjuat is able to outrun his enemies and avoid being killed because he is a very swift runner, even across the ice. The story is long and complex and a significant part of the oral tradition of these native people.
In 2001 the movie Atanarjuat - The Fast Runner made its premier. This movie is unique in that it was made from one of most popular and best remembered of all Inuit stories. Atanarjuat goes through many trials, these include death threats, fear, pain and betrayal. He has to make difficult decisions that affect not only himself but all those in his tight knit group.
The movie is extremely powerful and met with instant critical acclaim. The simple message is timeless and the native actors give stunning performances. The incredible scenery out on the ice is unforgettable and the movie has been shown to audiences around the world. The story is so compelling and presents aspects of life most of us have never thought about.
The Canadian made movie Atanarjuat - The Fast Runner has been highly acclaimed both at home and abroad. It tells of a famous legend that has been passed down for hundreds of years. It shows that the Eskimo stories are still as powerful today as they have always been. Audiences have given the movie very high ratings.
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