Iqaluit

The story unfolds in a contemporary, present-day Canadian setting. It portrays modern life in Iqaluit, with its hospital, police, and local bars. The contrast with Montreal underscores cross-cultural dynamics that drive the plot.

Iqaluit, the capital of Nunavut, is the primary Arctic setting with a hospital, RCMP presence, and close-knit Inuit communities. The stark Arctic environment frames the story of grief, truth, and family secrets. Montreal represents the wife's home city, a contrasting urban center from which she travels to the North.

❄️ Grief

The film centers on Carmen's struggle after Gilles' death, as she confronts mystery, the absence of official inquiry, and the weight of truth within a close Arctic community. Grief drives her to stay, seek answers, and piece together what happened on the day Gilles died. The harsh environment mirrors the cold, unresolved questions surrounding the incident. The pursuit of closure tests family loyalties and personal resilience.

💔 Betrayal

The revelation of Gilles' affair with Ani complicates relationships and loyalty within Noah's kin and the broader community. The affair creates a hidden lineage (Simigaq) that challenges assumed histories and sparks conflict over presence and responsibility. This theme explores forgiveness, responsibility, and the costs of secrets. It also raises questions about trust and the impact of infidelity on family bonds.

🏔️ Community

The story examines how Inuit and non-Inuit dynamics intersect in a small Arctic town, revealing tensions between outsiders and Indigenous communities. Noah's experiences with residential school and his attempts to protect Ani highlight intergenerational trauma and resilience. The group’s journey to a remote fishing site underscores shared survival, mutual care, and the redefinition of family beyond blood lines.