The Grizzlies, a 2018 Canadian film, is based on a true story set in the remote village of Kugluktuk, Nunavut. The film follows Russ Sheppard (portrayed by Ben Schnetzer), a typical white Canadian just out of university who takes up a teaching job in the arctic region. Struggling to gain the trust of the Inuit students, Russ forms a lacrosse team with them as their coach, with the ultimate goal of competing in a tournament in Toronto.
The Grizzlies takes us through the journey of the team from the beginning, when Russ tries to get students to attend school, to the end, when they finally travel to Toronto to compete. The students are initially indifferent to school and show no interest in taking part in team sports, but with Russ's encouragement, they begin to open up and develop the skills required to play lacrosse. The team becomes a breathing, living organism of determined individuals, a manifestation of the indomitable Inuit spirit.
The film shows us the socio-economic challenges and issues faced by the Inuit community in a realistic and respectful manner, making it strikingly relatable. The Inuit culture is also expressed in a non-judgmental way, with the plot revolving around Klondike Joe or Joe Landry, the village's "wise man" who is highly supportive of the team's endeavour.
The Grizzlies is a heartwarming and inspiring film about overcoming hardship and striving to succeed, about the human spirit that allows people to rise above their situation and reach for something greater. It is a story of cultural exchange and the mutual respect that can come about when we step outside our own perspectives and engage with communities that are at times underrepresented or overlooked.
The cast of The Grizzlies delivers exceptional performances, portraying their roles with honesty and authenticity. Ben Schnetzer stands out as Russ Sheppard, coming across as a well-meaning but misguided educator hoping to make a difference to the lives of his students. Jack Anawak as Joe Landry provides a strikingly natural performance, a subtly ingrained hallmark of his craft. The actors portraying the Inuit students, including Fred Bailey and Seth Burke, deliver performances that are as brave and intense as they are authentic.
Robust cinematography showcasing the wild landscape was notable in the film, drawing attention to the harsh environment and stark beauty that permeates the region. Director Miranda de Pencier, who worked closely with the Nunavut community to create the film, brings the unique culture and beauty of the Inuit people to life on the screen.
The Grizzlies is a film that will resonate with viewers as a multifaceted and special tribute to the Inuit community. The story, which is as charming as it is tough, breaks down cultural barriers between mainstream Canadian society and a subjugated Indigeneous community. It is a vivid illustration of the challenges faced by Canada's northern communities, and the determination and resilience that is common to all members of its population.
In conclusion, The Grizzlies portrays athletes in a sporting setting in a way that is often missing from mainstream media. Instead of hitting on clichés, the filmmakers tell an uplifting and moving story that is both starkly beautiful and resonant, featuring the richness and complexity of a culture that has too often been undermined or disprivileged. The Grizzlies is an empowering and memorable tribute to the human spirit that will not leave you easily.
The Grizzlies is a 2020 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes.
It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5 and a MetaScore of 69.
