Alaskan Cinema: 16 Must-Watch Films

Dive into the unique and picturesque settings of Alaska with films like "Into the Wild" and "The Call of the Wild," portraying the state's stunning landscapes and rugged lifestyle. Don't miss classics such as "Insomnia" and "The Proposal," which highlight both the psychological and charming aspects of Alaskan cinema.

1. Introduction to Alaskan Cinema

• Alaska's film scene is unique, with a history that dates back to the early 20th century. The first notable film, "The Cheechakos," was produced in 1923 by the Alaska Moving Pictures Corp. It portrayed the Alaskan gold rush and aimed to kickstart a local film industry.

• "Spirit of the Wind," a film about George Attla, a legendary dog musher, was re-released in 2014. Originally made in 1978, it's one of the many films showcasing Alaska's rich cultural heritage.

• Despite its challenging weather, Anchorage once had three drive-in movie theaters. They opened in 1963 and operated for about 15 years, providing memorable experiences despite the short summers and long winters.

• From 2011 to 2020, Alaska was the backdrop for 67 reality TV shows, including hits like "Life Below Zero" and "Deadliest Catch." The state's scenic landscapes make it a popular location for filmmakers.

• The local film scene continues to thrive with support from organizations like the Alaska Film Group and Alaska Filmmakers. Independent films and short productions are booming, with festivals like the Anchorage International Film Festival celebrating these works.

• Notable independent films include "Moose The Movie" and "Sudsy Slim Rides Again," both of which have received international recognition and awards.

2. Into the Wild (2007)

• "Into the Wild" is a film directed by Sean Penn, based on Jon Krakauer's book. It tells the true story of Chris McCandless, who ventured into the Alaskan wilderness.
• After graduating, McCandless cut ties with his family and traveled across the American West, finally settling in an abandoned bus near Denali National Park.
• He lived in the bus for nearly four months, surviving on rice, local plants, and small game. His goal was to live off the land, despite warnings about the harsh conditions.
• McCandless's adventure ended tragically when he died at the age of 24. Theories suggest his death was caused by starvation or poisoning from eating wild-potato plant seeds.
• His story is a stark reminder of the risks of entering the wilderness unprepared and highlights the importance of heeding safety advice.

3. The Call of the Wild (2020)

• The 2020 film "The Call of the Wild" is a Disney adaptation of Jack London's 1903 novella. It features a significantly altered storyline, focusing on a more family-friendly narrative.
• The original book depicts the harsh realities of the Alaskan wilderness and Buck's brutal experiences as a sled dog. The film, however, softens these aspects to suit a broader audience.
• Harrison Ford stars as John Thornton, a character who is more prominent in the film than in the book. The film portrays him as a compassionate counterpart to Buck, enhancing the emotional depth of their relationship.
• The movie utilizes advanced CGI to bring Buck to life, aiming to capture the majestic landscapes of the Yukon, although it is primarily filmed in British Columbia, Canada.
• Critics have noted the film's uneven tone, fluctuating between serious themes and lighter moments. Despite this, the production design and Harrison Ford's performance have been praised.
• The film is rated PG but includes scenes of animal distress and peril, making it potentially unsuitable for very young viewers.

4. Insomnia (2002)

• "Insomnia" is a psychological thriller set in a fictional Alaskan town, enhancing the story's tension with its remote, always-daylight environment.
• Directed by Christopher Nolan, the film features Detective Will Dormer, played by Al Pacino, who struggles with constant daylight, leading to hallucinations and errors in his investigation.
• The movie was filmed in British Columbia, using locations like Squamish and Atlin to mimic the rugged Alaskan landscapes, adding an authentic, atmospheric intensity to the film.
• Key scenes were shot in various locations including Hap's Bar in Vancouver and dense forests in the Haida Gwaii archipelago.
• The vast wilderness and isolated settings in the film contribute significantly to the psychological tension and narrative ambiguity, characteristic of Nolan's style.
• "Insomnia" was praised for its compelling setting and performances, particularly by Al Pacino and Robin Williams, and explores themes of guilt and mistrust through its intricate plot.

5. The Proposal (2009)

• "The Proposal" is a romantic comedy from 2009 directed by Anne Fletcher.
• The story centers on Margaret, a Canadian executive facing deportation from the U.S. She convinces her assistant, Andrew, to marry her to avoid leaving her job.
• The setting in Sitka, Alaska, adds a unique charm to the film. It plays a significant role in the development of the story, especially as Margaret's relationship with Andrew evolves.
• Despite its predictable plot, the film was a financial success, grossing over $317 million worldwide. It was made on a budget of $40 million.
• Sandra Bullock's performance was notable, earning her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical.
• Critics had mixed feelings about the movie. They praised the chemistry between Bullock and Reynolds but noted the plot was formulaic and included some clichéd and sexist elements.

6. Runaway Train (1985)

• "Runaway Train" features two convicts who escape from an Alaskan prison and end up on a train that's out of control. The intense action and snowy backdrop heighten the drama and suspense.
• Directed by Andrei Konchalovsky and inspired by a screenplay by Akira Kurosawa, the film showcases strong performances by Jon Voight and Eric Roberts, both of whom received Academy Award nominations.
• The movie is celebrated for its gripping action sequences and emotional depth, achieved through the interactions between the characters on the train.
• Despite positive reviews, "Runaway Train" did not perform well financially and was considered a commercial failure. However, it helped the production company, The Cannon Group, gain respectability in Hollywood.
• Filming locations included Anaconda, Montana, and Whittier, Alaska, adding authenticity to the harsh environmental conditions depicted in the film.

7. Mystery, Alaska (1999)

• "Mystery, Alaska" is a film from 1999 that tells the story of a small town brought together by their love for hockey. The residents play weekly games on a frozen pond, making hockey more than just a sport in their community.
• The plot thickens when a former resident plans to bring the New York Rangers to play against the local team. This big event stirs up hidden issues within the town, but ultimately helps them grow stronger together.
• The film features Russell Crowe among other notable actors and dives into themes like leadership, the fear of becoming irrelevant, and the effects of big corporations on small towns.
• Despite the team's loss to the Rangers, the spirit of the game leads to two local players receiving offers to join the minor leagues.
• The movie combines drama and comedy to explore deep societal issues through the lens of a beloved sport, though it did not do well financially, earning less than $9 million on a $28 million budget.

8. Big Miracle (2012)

• "Big Miracle" is a heartwarming film based on the true story of a campaign to save three gray whales trapped in ice near Point Barrow, Alaska.
• The drama unfolds in 1988, capturing the efforts of various groups including local Alaskans, the US military, and even the Soviet Union.
• Central characters include a Greenpeace activist played by Drew Barrymore, a news reporter portrayed by John Krasinski, and an oil tycoon played by Ted Danson.
• The film not only highlights the rescue operation but also explores the personal motives and interactions of the people involved.
• It's celebrated as a family-friendly movie that appeals to a wide audience, offering both entertainment and a glimpse into an impactful environmental issue.

9. The Frozen Ground (2013)

• "The Frozen Ground" is a gripping crime thriller directed by Scott Walker, set in Anchorage, Alaska around 1983. The film portrays the chilling true story of serial killer Robert Hansen, who is played by John Cusack.

• Nicolas Cage stars as Jack Holcombe, a dedicated detective based on the real-life Glenn Flothe. Holcombe relentlessly pursues clues in a series of murders and missing persons, suspecting they are interconnected.

• The movie dives into the dark corners of Anchorage, filled with strip clubs, drug addiction, and prostitution, providing a stark backdrop for the investigation.

• Vanessa Hudgens delivers a compelling performance as a teenage prostitute who escapes from Hansen and becomes a key witness, despite skepticism about her credibility due to her background.

• "The Frozen Ground" highlights the obstacles Holcombe faces, including resistance from his superiors and the challenge of proving the connection between the crimes.

• The film is noted for its strong acting and does not aim to reinvent the crime thriller genre, but instead focuses on the urgency and isolation of the detective's quest to bring the killer to justice.

• Available for rent or purchase, this movie offers a solid performance by Nicolas Cage and a realistic look at a haunting case in Alaska's history.

10. Limbo (1999)

• "Limbo" is a 1999 adventure drama that explores life in remote Alaskan settings.
• Directed by John Sayles, it stars Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, David Strathairn, and Vanessa Martinez.
• The story begins with Joe, a handyman and former fisherman, and Donna, a lounge singer, starting a romantic relationship amidst local community life in Juneau, Alaska.
• Drama unfolds as Joe, Donna, and her daughter Noelle are stranded on a deserted island due to a botched boat trip planned by Joe's half-brother Bobby.
• The film is split into two parts: the first deals with local Alaskan life and development challenges, while the second turns into a survivalist tale.
• Critics have praised the film for its unique story structure and the depth of its character development, though its open-ended conclusion received mixed reactions.
• The soundtrack features performances by Mastrantonio, enhancing the film's emotional landscape.

11. White Fang (1991)

• "White Fang" is a 1991 film directed by Randal Kleiser, set during the 1896 Klondike Gold Rush. It's based on Jack London's classic novel.
• The story follows Jack Conroy, a young gold prospector in Alaska, who forms a deep bond with a wolfdog named White Fang.
• Together, they navigate challenges including a cruel dogfighter who forces White Fang to fight. Jack's efforts to tame him eventually lead to a peaceful life and a successful gold mine.
• The film stars Ethan Hawke and was a box office success, particularly in France, where it was one of the top films of 1991.
• Critics praised the movie for its stunning photography and heartfelt performances, highlighting its depiction of survival and adventure in the harsh Alaskan wilderness.
• "White Fang" offers a thrilling adventure and a touching story of friendship, making it a memorable film set in the picturesque expanses of Alaska.

12. Never Cry Wolf (1983)

• "Never Cry Wolf" is a 1983 American drama film directed by Carroll Ballard. It was the first film released under the Walt Disney Pictures label.
• The story is based on Farley Mowat's 1963 autobiography. It stars Charles Martin Smith as Tyler, a young Canadian biologist.
• Tyler is sent to the Canadian Arctic to study why the caribou population is declining. He initially suspects wolves are to blame.
• During his study, Tyler observes two wolves, George and Angeline. He discovers they mainly eat mice, not caribou.
• Tyler conducts a side experiment by eating only mice to test their nutritional value.
• He eventually learns that the wolves help maintain the caribou population by only hunting the weaker, diseased animals.
• The film blends documentary-style filmmaking with drama, creating a unique docudrama experience.
• Critics and audiences praised the film for its storytelling and Charles Martin Smith's performance.
• Despite some skepticism about its premise, "Never Cry Wolf" holds a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from eighteen reviews.
• The film grossed over $27 million in the US and was in theaters for 192 days.

13. On Deadly Ground (1994)

• "On Deadly Ground" is a 1994 action film directed by and starring Steven Seagal. The movie centers on serious environmental concerns related to the oil industry in Alaska.
• Seagal plays an oil rigger working for a company headed by Michael Caine's character, who is racing to get an oil rig operational before losing the oil rights to the Eskimos.
• The plot thickens as Seagal's character uncovers safety compromises made by Caine's character, putting both the environment and lives at risk.
• The film also touches on the rights and spiritual values of Native Americans, particularly the Inuit culture.
• Critics have pointed out the film's preachy tone but acknowledge it as entertaining for action fans, featuring stunning Alaskan wilderness scenes and a strong villain role played by Michael Caine.
• Despite its action-packed sequences, the film has been critiqued for its incoherent storyline and clumsily executed scenes. Critics labeled Seagal's character as a mix between a philosopher and a thug, with a confusing character arc.
• Joan Chen appears as the daughter of an Eskimo chieftain, but her role is noted as being underdeveloped.

14. The Grey (2011)

• "The Grey" is a 2011 film directed by Joe Carnahan, featuring Liam Neeson. It showcases a group of oil workers stranded in the Alaskan wilderness after their plane crashes. They face the daunting challenge of surviving against a pack of wolves in extreme conditions.

• The film delves into themes of survival, humanity's relationship with nature, and personal transformation. The protagonist, John Ottway, played by Neeson, leads the group and is portrayed as transitioning into a wolf-like figure, enhancing the survival theme.

• "The Grey" was well-received for its intense portrayal of survival and Neeson's performance. It also sparked discussions due to its philosophical undertones and realistic depiction of the harsh environment.

• Despite its success, the film faced criticism from animal rights groups like PETA and WildEarth Guardians for its portrayal of wolves and the use of wolf carcasses during production. This controversy highlighted the film's impact beyond its narrative.

• The ending of "The Grey" leaves viewers on a cliffhanger, with Ottway confronting the alpha wolf, which has led to various interpretations of the film's deeper meanings, particularly about life and death.

15. North to Alaska (1960)

• "North to Alaska" is a film set during the thrilling days of the Alaska gold rush. The story follows a prospector named George, who sends his partner, Sam, to Seattle to bring back his fiancée.

• In a twist of fate, Sam discovers that George's fiancée has married another man. Instead of returning empty-handed, Sam brings back Angel, a hostess from the Henhouse dance hall.

• The film showcases a memorable scene where Sam stands up for Angel against an overly aggressive man. This act highlights themes of honor and defense.

• Viewers can rent or buy "North to Alaska" for home viewing through platforms like Fandango at Home or Prime Video.

16. Balto (1995)

• "Balto" is a 1995 animated film directed by Simon Wells, based on a true story. The film features the voices of Kevin Bacon and Bridget Fonda.
• The storyline follows Balto, a half-wolf, half-dog, who braves the harsh Alaskan winter to deliver medicine during a diphtheria epidemic in 1925.
• Initially, the film did not perform well at the box office due to competition from "Toy Story" but later succeeded in home video sales.
• Balto is portrayed as a brave and loyal outcast, overcoming various challenges to help the sick children of Nome.
• The film concludes with a tribute to Balto's heroism, featuring a memorial in Central Park.
• Critics noted that while "Balto" might lack the enchantment of some Disney films, it appeals to children with its exciting and relatable characters.
• Despite his heroic deeds, Balto remains an outsider, with his character development being a point of critique among viewers.
• The film led to two direct-to-video sequels, expanding on the adventures and legacy of Balto.

FAQ

What is unique about Alaska's film scene?

Alaska's film scene is notable for its deep connection with the state's unique landscapes and cultural heritage. Starting as early as the 1920s with "The Cheechakos", Alaska has hosted films that capture its natural beauty and the resilience of its people.

Can you name some films that showcase Alaska's rich cultural heritage?

"Spirit of the Wind" and the re-released version in 2014 highlight the story of George Attla, a legendary dog musher from Alaska.

How has Alaska contributed to the film industry outside of feature films?

From 2011 to 2020, Alaska was the backdrop for 67 reality TV shows, using its scenic landscapes to enhance shows like "Life Below Zero" and "Deadliest Catch."

What role do organizations play in supporting Alaskan cinema?

Organizations such as the Alaska Film Group and Alaska Filmmakers play a crucial role in nurturing the local film scene, supporting independent films, and organizing festivals like the Anchorage International Film Festival.

Who directs the film "Into the Wild," and what is the plot about?

Directed by Sean Penn, "Into the Wild" is based on a true story about Chris McCandless, a young man who ventures into the Alaskan wilderness seeking a life off the grid but meets a tragic end.

How does the film "The Call of the Wild" differ from Jack London's original book?

The 2020 film adaptation offers a more family-friendly narrative and focuses less on the harsh realities of Buck’s life as a sled dog compared to the original novella.

What sets the film "Insomnia" apart in terms of setting and directing style?

"Insomnia," directed by Christopher Nolan, is set in a fictional Alaskan town where the constant daylight adds a surreal quality to the psychological thriller genre. The remote settings contribute to the film’s atmospheric tension and narrative ambiguity.

Describe the plot and setting of "The Proposal."

"The Proposal" features a comedic scenario where a Canadian executive convinces her assistant to marry her to avoid deportation from the U.S. Set in Sitka, Alaska, its unique location plays a pivotal role in the development of the story.

What is "Big Miracle" about?

It is based on the true story of a campaign to save three gray whales trapped in ice near Point Barrow, Alaska, unfolding the cooperative efforts of different groups including local Alaskans, the US military, and the media.

How does "The Frozen Ground" utilize its Alaskan setting?

Set in Anchorage, Alaska, around 1983, this film delves into the dark corners of the city, setting a stark backdrop for the investigation of a serial killer, which adds to the film’s chilling atmosphere.

What is the significance of the film "Limbo" in terms of its portrayal of Alaskan life?

"Limbo" places its characters in challenging circumstances that reflect the broader challenges of living in remote Alaskan settings, combining local community life with survival drama.

How does "North to Alaska" portray the Alaska gold rush?

"North to Alaska" is set during the exciting days of the Alaska gold rush, mixing adventure and humor with historical themes, showing the challenging yet lucrative lives of prospectors.

What true story is the animated film "Balto" based on?

"Balto" is based on a true story from 1925, where a half-wolf, half-dog sled dog named Balto braves a harsh Alaskan winter to deliver a life-saving serum during a diphtheria epidemic in Nome, Alaska.