Beyond the North boldly explores the French cultural identity through an unusual portrait of Réal Bérard. The filmmaker focuses on this French-speaking artist from western Canada, in the tradition of René Richard, a lucid, passionate individual who is a painter, sculptor, cartoonist and cartographer, and examines the mythical route of the Voyageurs. His trip to the northern portion of the globe takes him to the boundary of Lac Rendez-vous, the dividing point for Voyageurs who stayed with the Amerindians and those who headed back South.

The reflections of Réal Bérard, a proud descendant of the "coureurs de bois," mirror the young Québec filmmaker's questions and concerns. Together, they follow in the steps of the Voyageurs, wonder about roots and borders and overcome the distance that might separate Manitoba and Québec. Using modern techniques, the documentary reflects the artist's outstanding commitment and the splendour of the landscapes that inspire him. In French with English subtitles.