The Necessities of Life

Mar 14

Apr 11

Apr 25

Courtesy of IFC Films
Canada • 2008 • in French & Inuktitut w/ English subtitles • 102 min • PG

1950s, Far North: the spread of tuberculosis forced many Inuit to go to various Canadian cities for treatment. Tivii (Natar Ungalaaq, Atanarjuat: the Fast Runner) is taken to a sanatorium in Quebec City. Uprooted, far from his loved ones and faced with a completely alien world, he finds himself unable to communicate with anyone.

When his nurse, Carole (Éveline Gélinas) realizes that Tivii’s illness is not the most serious threat to his well-being, she arranges to have a young orphan, Kaki, transferred to the institution. The boy is also sick, but has experience of both worlds and speaks both languages. By sharing his culture with Kaki and opening it up to others, Tivii rediscovers his pride and energy. Ultimately he also rediscovers hope through a plan to adopt Kaki, bring him home and make him part of his family.

Club reactions by city:

moderated by Mike Budd

Powerful, human story. Very emotional. Universal themes of loneliness, hunger for connection.

Great choice. All human beings need to relate to people and feel love and hope an all people can relate to others even if they do not have a common language.

Touching and heartwarming.

moderated by Patrice Petro and Gilberto Blasini

Very moving period piece about a man unable to communicate with those doing what is 'for his own good.'

Poignant relationships, brought me to a place and with people I was not familiar with. Reaffirmed that we are all one family and language is not a barrier if we listen.

The acting was flawless – my favorite film of the season!

moderated by Diane Carson
with guest Wil Loy, Retired Dean, St. Louis Community College

The story spoke to the true spirit of humanity. Compassion and caring! It was an interesting study of the differences in two cultures and yet finding common ground. The pure innocence of the lead actor was so touching. Excellent!

Right now my heart is so full that I feel like Tivi--unable to put my thoughts into words. He was a stranger in a strange land; his dearness, his gentleness and his goodness, his intelligence and ultimately his tenacity translate into any language.

Acting was superb. Pace, though slow by most standards, was important to convey the circumstances of years away and the pace of life of the Inuit. The forced separation from family was an unconsolable hardship.