Nanook of the North

Definition

Nanook of the North is a landmark documentary film directed by Robert J. Flaherty in 1922 that portrays the life of an Inuk man named Nanook and his family in the Arctic. This film is often credited as one of the first feature-length documentaries and is a significant work that defines the genre through its blend of ethnographic storytelling and artistic vision, showcasing the struggles and culture of the Inuit people.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nanook of the North was filmed over several months in 1920 and is recognized for its innovative use of natural lighting and location shooting.
2. Flaherty constructed certain scenes for dramatic effect, raising questions about authenticity versus representation in documentary filmmaking.
3. The film highlights traditional Inuit practices such as hunting, fishing, and building igloos, providing insights into their daily life and culture.
4. Nanook was actually named Allakariallak, and Flaherty gave him the name Nanook to signify 'the bear,' symbolizing strength and survival.
5. Despite its artistic merits, Nanook of the North has faced criticism for its romanticized portrayal of Inuit life and its ethical implications in ethnographic filmmaking.

Review Questions

• How did Nanook of the North influence the definition and perception of documentary film as a genre?
  • Nanook of the North significantly influenced the definition of documentary film by showcasing a narrative-driven approach that blends storytelling with real-life subjects. It challenged traditional cinema by emphasizing authenticity while employing creative techniques like staged scenes to convey deeper truths about Inuit life. This blending of fact and artistic interpretation opened up discussions on what constitutes reality in documentary filmmaking.
• Discuss the impact of Robert J. Flaherty's role as both filmmaker and participant in Nanook of the North on the film's representation of Inuit culture.
  • Robert J. Flaherty's dual role as both filmmaker and participant created a unique dynamic in Nanook of the North, where his perspective shaped how Inuit culture was presented. His involvement meant that he interpreted and curated experiences to fit his narrative vision, leading to a portrayal that, while rich in cultural detail, could also be seen as filtered through a Western lens. This raises important questions about authorship, representation, and ethics in documentary filmmaking.
• Evaluate how Nanook of the North fits into Bill Nichols' Six Modes of Documentary, particularly focusing on its place within the observational mode.
  • Nanook of the North aligns with Bill Nichols' observational mode due to its emphasis on capturing everyday life without direct interference from the filmmaker. The film presents real events as they unfold, allowing audiences to engage with the authenticity of Inuit experiences. However, Flaherty's use of staging complicates this classification by introducing elements that are more performative than purely observational. This highlights how documentaries can blend modes and challenge viewers' understanding of truth versus representation in cinematic storytelling.

Related terms

Ethnography: A qualitative research method used to study cultures through direct observation and participation, often resulting in detailed descriptions of social practices and beliefs.

Direct Cinema:

A style of documentary filmmaking that emerged in the 1960s, characterized by a focus on real-life events and minimal directorial intervention, aiming to present an unfiltered view of reality.

Cinéma Vérité: A documentary filmmaking style that combines observational techniques with a focus on truth and reality, often involving the filmmaker's presence in the film.