Grab your winter gear because the upcoming season of North of North returns to Ice Cove for its second installment. The popular comedy series, a collaboration between APTN, CBC, and Netflix, follows Siaja (played by Anna Lambe), a young Inuk woman navigating life post a highly publicized breakup with her spouse.
The first season was a massive success, ranking in Netflix’s Top 10 in 33 countries and receiving acclaim for its adept blend of humor and poignant themes. Co-creator and executive producer Stacey Aglok MacDonald expressed a love for comedy with emotional depth, stating they aim to evoke both laughter and tears from viewers.
The show garnered significant recognition, clinching nine Canadian Screen Awards, including best comedy series and best lead performer in a comedy for Lambe. Co-creator and executive producer Alethea Arnaquq-Baril admitted to being surprised by the extent of the show’s success, emphasizing how elated the team felt.
Season 2 resumes Siaja’s story as she navigates the complexities of motherhood, work, and dating while contending with strained relationships with her mother, Neevee (portrayed by Maika Harper), and absent father, Alistair (played by Jay Ryan). The season kicks off with Siaja learning about an older sister, propelling her on a journey of self-discovery.
The Inuktitut concept of ᐱᓕᒻᒪᒃᓴᕐᓂᖅ (pilimmaksarniq) anchors Siaja’s evolution this season, emphasizing skill mastery through observation, practice, and effort. Lambe described her character’s life as unraveling into a “very messy place” marked by raw emotions in her bond with her mother.
Neevee, a character initially shrouded in mystery, starts to open up, revealing a new facet of her persona. As Siaja grapples with honoring her mother’s wishes while seeking connection with her sister, tensions rise, culminating in a quest for peace and closure.
The authenticity of the show is underscored by its setting in Iqaluit, doubling for Ice Cove, lending a grounded and enchanting feel to the series. The Arctic production presented challenges, with Arnaquq-Baril highlighting the unpredictability of filming in extreme conditions.
The creators stress the importance of Inuit representation behind and in front of the camera, ensuring the show reflects genuine experiences. The fashion on the show draws from diverse Inuit styles, showcasing handmade pieces that capture the essence of the culture and region.
Season 2 promises a continuation of the show’s humor and heart, with new characters and deeper explorations into existing ones. Fans can anticipate unexpected plot twists, grander narratives, and a more immersive dive into the community life of Ice Cove.
With a stellar cast returning alongside new additions like Bruce McCulloch and Elisapie, North of North Season 2 premieres in Canada on Sept. 1 on APTN+, followed by a wider release on CBC TV, CBC Gem, and APTN TV on Sept. 8. Following the Canadian launch, the season will be available globally on Netflix later in the fall.