People of the Seal, Part 1: Eskimo Summer

People of the Seal, Part 1: Eskimo Summer

| 51 min

The first of two coproductions by the British Broadcasting Corporation and the National Film Board of Canada, People of the Seal, Part 1: Eskimo Summer is compiled from some of the most vivid footage ever filmed of the life of the Netsilik Inuit in the Kugaaruk region (formerly Pelly Bay) of the Canadian Arctic. The original films of the Netsilik series attempted to recreate the traditional lifestyle of Netsilingmiut living there. They show the incredible resourcefulness of the Netsilik (People of the Seal) who have adapted to one of the world's harshest environments. Part 1: Eskimo Summer shows how Inuit families prepare for winter by hunting seal, birds and caribou and by fishing for Arctic Char during the extended hours of daylight.

Please note that this is an archival film that makes use of the word “Eskimo,” an outdated and offensive term. While the origin of the word is a matter of some contention, it is no longer used in Canada. The term was formally rejected by the Inuit Circumpolar Council in 1980 and has subsequently not been in use at the NFB for decades. This film is therefore a time-capsule of a bygone era, presented in its original version. The NFB apologizes for the offence caused.

Embed this code on your site

People of the Seal, Part 1: Eskimo Summer, , provided by the National Film Board of Canada

Video player width

by Reset
Credits
  • producer
    Richard Robinson
    Michael McKennirey
  • executive producer
    Brian Branston
    George Pearson
  • script
    Stanley Jackson
  • editing
    Colin Hill
  • sound editing
    Malca Gillson
    Ken Page
    Don Wellington
    André Galbrand
  • consultant
    Asen Balikci
  • narrator
    Alexander Scourby
The NFB is committed to respecting your privacy

We use cookies to ensure that our site works efficiently, as well as for advertising purposes. If you do not wish to have your information used in this way, you can modify your browser settings before continuing your visit.

Learn more