The Arctics explores the history and impacts of the Arctic Winter Games, an international, biennial multi sport games that has been celebrating circumpolar sport and culture in the North since 1970. This short documentary follows the stories of characters from across the 9 regions as they prepare to partake in the 2020 Arctic Winter Games which marks 50 years since first opening in Yellowknife, NWT.

From feeding reindeer with first time athletes in the Sámi region of Norway to exploring the indigenous sports of Yamal, Russia to the history of the Dene games to meeting Nunavut’s first NHL player, The Arctics not only explores the role of sport in isolated communities but also its ability to build cultural and regional pride.

Both educational and inspiring, The Arctics introduces viewers to the North in an emotionally impactful way painting a picture of Indigenous and northern cultures and landscapes while celebrating sport and its ability to inspire, transform and elevate northern athletes.

Producer Profile:

Based in Whitehorse, Midnight Light Media create content that celebrates the connections between people, places and passions. Their content helps to demystify the special place they call home: The North.

Director Naomi Mark grew up playing in the boreal landscape of Canada’s North and feels most comfortable in wide open spaces with a camera in hand. Her recent work includes the feature film How To Bee, a POV documentary about her relationship with her father as he teaches her to keep bees at the end of his life  

Director and Cinematographer Marty O’Brien has worked in the film industry for the past 10 years creating emotive, educational and engaging content. Marty directed the award winning documentary, Camera Trap, which screened at Hot Docs International Film Festival as well as over 15 international festivals.