
Netflix's 'North of North': Warmth in the Arctic Tundra
- Apr 18, 2025
Netflix's latest series North of North is set in the Arctic region of Canada, precisely in a remote village known as Ice Cove, Nunavut. The story evolves around Siaja, the protagonist played by Anna Lambe, who aims to break free from her conventional life. At 26, she becomes restless with being only a housewife to Ting and mother to Bun, longing for her own identity outside the roles dictated by her Inuk culture.
The plot of the series unfolds as Siaja leaves Ting, addresses her desire for personal development, and beats the odds by securing a probationary job in a local body, all while dealing with the expectations and skepticism of her community. North of North, although may take a few episodes to gain momentum, provides an engaging and fresh perspective about life in the remote, icy region and introduces viewers to Inuit culture, often overlooked in mainstream media.
Unexpected twists and turns, complex character dynamics, and humorous gags contribute to the series' charm. Though the series employs universal themes of self-determination and community development, the unique setting and cultural details set it apart from other sitcoms. The series holds an Ace in its authenticity – costumes, script, and original music all reflect Inuit traditions and craftsmanship.

Amidst the humor, North of North also cautiously introduces darker themes related to residential schools and child-family separations. These aspects provide a nuanced understanding of the Inuit community, their struggles and collective resilience. The creators Stacey Agloc MacDonald and Alethea Arnaquq-Baril, both Arctic-based Inuit women, offer a genuine and informed perspective of a community that stands strong despite adversity.
North of North, while introducing viewers to new aspects of Inuit life, successfully captures the essence of small-town comedies, offering humor and warmth in unassuming ways. The heartwarming relationship between Siaja and her family, combined with quirky gags and a uniquely engaging cast, makes North of North a charming addition to the roster of Netflix comedies.
