Watch The Last Igloo

The Last Igloo is a poignant and meditative documentary about the lifestyle of an Inuit family living in the small community of Niaqornat in Greenland. This BBC Select show captures the beauty of the Arctic landscape and the struggles faced by the small community faced with the challenges of modernization.

The film focuses on the story of a man named Julius and his family, who continue to live a traditional Inuit lifestyle amidst the modern world. The Last Igloo showcases the artistry of traditional igloo building, the survival skills and hunting practices of the Inuit people, and the deep connection they have with the land and the animals. The show's stunning cinematography captures spectacular Arctic vistas, the snow and the ice, the sea and sky, and the changing light from sunrise to sunset.

The Last Igloo is a documentary that truly transports you to another world, inviting you to bear witness to the daily struggles of a people fighting to hold onto their traditional way of life. We follow Julius and his family as they carve out their existence on the edge of the world, hunting for food, building indigenous homes and navigating the harsh Arctic environment. The Inuit people have lived in harmony with the environment for thousands of years, and the documentary begs the question of whether the modern world threatens this delicate balance.

Julius and his family live in the remote Greenlandic village of Niaqornat, one of the most northern communities in the world. Life in Niaqornat is challenging, especially during the winter months when food and supplies are scarce, and the darkness and cold are unrelenting. As the village's population dwindles, the remaining inhabitants face a difficult decision: adapt to modern life, or continue to live in the traditional ways of their ancestors. The documentary shows how the community members are struggling to maintain cultural traditions and pass them on to future generations, while still meeting the needs of modern society.

The show is an intimate portrait of a community whose way of life is steeped in the mysteries of the Arctic landscape. The simple, almost meditative tone of the documentary feels appropriate for the subject matter, quietly immersing the viewer in this icy world. It’s a world where the sound of silence is ever-present, and the natural environment is ever-changing. The show's pacing likewise reflects the way of life of its subjects: slow, deliberate, and thoughtful, with every action and decision made with careful consideration.

The Last Igloo gives us a rare glimpse into this singular world and serves as a tribute to the hardy people who continue to live in it. Throughout the documentary, we see Julius and his family's life unfold, as they go about their daily routines, and we never lose sight that every activity is a necessity for their survival. Whether hunting for food, building an igloo, or socializing with other members of the community, every action is imbued with meaning.

Overall, The Last Igloo is a thought-provoking and visually captivating documentary that explores the delicate balance between the traditional culture of the Inuit people and the impact of modern society. The show is a celebration of a way of life that is increasingly becoming a thing of the past, and it serves as a reflection on the struggles faced by communities worldwide that are trying to preserve their cultural and traditional heritage. The Last Igloo is more than just a documentary; it’s a reminder of the human need for connection with the natural world, and the broader implications of our struggle to preserve it for future generations.