Legend of Sarila

The 2013 animated fantasy/adventure film, Legend of Sarila, brings a captivating tale of bravery, discovery, and survival during an unforgiving time. Set across a stunning backdrop of the Canadian Arctic, the feature boasts an impressive star-studded cast, including Christopher Plummer, Rachelle Lefevre and Dustin Milligan. Although it is Canada's first-ever 3D animated feature, it has received worldwide acclaim for its richly textured storyline and intriguing animation graphics. The film is directed by Nancy Florence Savard and produced by Normand Roger.

Legend of Sarila explores the gripping tales of an Inuit tribe struggling to survive under the strain of a bleak, unrelenting winter. The constant hardships and limited provisions foraging have pushed the tribe to the brink of extinction, leaving them on an inevitable threshold of starvation and despair.

To make matters more complicated, there's a shaman named Kiliq, voiced by Christopher Plummer, who appears to have lost touch with nature's spirits, leaving the tribe helpless and lost. His antagonist, the young and daredevil shaman-in-training, Markussi, played by Dustin Milligan, is unfairly banished from the tribe due to a misunderstanding incited by Kiliq's misleading aura of power and command.

But the spirits have other plans. Heard only by the young Markussi, a mysterious, ethereal whisper speaks of Sarila, a paradise of plenty hidden somewhere in the Arctic, untouched by the hostile winter. Driven by an unyielding determination to save his tribe, Markussi sets off towards Sarila, accompanied by his brave comrades – Putulik, a courageous young hunter, played by Tim Rozon, and Apik, a spirited young woman who captures the hearts both of Markussi and Putulik and is voiced by Rachelle Lefevre.

The travelers navigate imposing glaciers, face off with fearsome predators, and endure the unforgiving Arctic cold. Sarila represents hope — a promised land teeming with game and void of the relentless winter devouring their homeland. However, the path to Sarila is not intended for the faint-hearted and treacherous routes, mystical creatures, and the constant cunning intercession of Kiliq, challenge the wanderers' reliance on courage, friendship, loyalty, and spirit of survival.

Meanwhile, an escalating power struggle ensues back in the tribe between wise old Saya, voiced by Genevieve Bujold, and the bitter, ambitious Kiliq. The dynamics of mysticism, power, and survival are interwoven to form a breathtaking narrative that keeps the audience engaged throughout the runtime.

The film explores unique themes that resonate universally; themes of leadership, deceit, faith, survival, the spirit of adventure, and interpersonal relations beautifully wrapped up within the Inuit cultural context. The cinematography celebrates the magnificent, snow-laden landscapes incorporating a mesmerizing northern lights display, thereby offering a realistic portrayal of the Arctic's astonishing yet severe environment.

As a Canadian film, Legend of Sarila also reflects the cultural heritage of Inuit mythology, enabling the audience to understand and appreciate this indigenous culture's sophistication and wisdom, giving way to a broader discussion about its relevance in contemporary society.

The top-notch voice acting performances are a key highlight, enhancing the personality of each character. Christopher Plummer, with his voice acting prowess, gives depth to the conflicted character of Kiliq, whereas young, love-struck characters Markussi, Apik, and Putulik, voiced by Dustin Milligan, Rachelle Lefevre, and Tim Rozon respectively, bring energy, vulnerability, and dynamism to the screen.

Legend of Sarila is a visual spectacle and a compelling narrative that engulfs viewers in a world of ancient, arctic magic power struggles, braving challenging terrains, and witnessing unlikely friendships. As they pull back the fabric of culture, heritage, and mysticism, the audience is left with a profound admiration for the resilience, wisdom, and mythical beauty of the Inuit tradition and history.

Even though Legend of Sarila is tagged as a family and children's movie, there is no doubt that its enchanting narrative, coupled with striking visuals and intriguing characters, transgress this label, making it a unique film that universally appeals to both children and adults. It's a noteworthy introduction to the realm of Canadian animated features and a captivating tale of survival that will remain with its viewers long after the film concludes.