The Experimental Eskimos 2009
In the early 1960s, Canada's government launched a controversial social experiment by relocating three young Inuit boys from their Arctic homes to Ottawa, placing them with white foster families and enrolling them in mainstream schools.
Director: Barry Greenwald
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Experimental Eskimos (2009) about?
This documentary uncovers a little-known 1960s Canadian experiment where three Inuit boys were relocated to Ottawa to be raised in white families. Their journey unfolds as they grapple with identity, cultural displacement, and ultimately become influential activists.
Who directed The Experimental Eskimos?
Barry Greenwald directed this eye-opening documentary, blending archival footage with personal stories to explore the experiment's lasting impact.
Who stars in The Experimental Eskimos?
The documentary centers on Peter Ittinuar, Zebedee Nungak, and Eric Tagoona, whose real-life experiences form the heart of this powerful film.
Is The Experimental Eskimos (2009) worth watching?
As a gripping documentary with historical significance, *The Experimental Eskimos* offers rich storytelling and thought-provoking themes. Its concise 70-minute runtime makes it accessible, though its emotional depth leaves a lasting impression.
How long is The Experimental Eskimos?
The film runs for 70 minutes.
About The Experimental Eskimos (2009) — How Three Inuit Boys Defied a Nation's Experiment
In the early 1960s, Canada's government launched a controversial social experiment by relocating three young Inuit boys from their Arctic homes to Ottawa, placing them with white foster families and enrolling them in mainstream schools. *The Experimental Eskimos (2009)*, directed by Barry Greenwald, follows their extraordinary journey as they navigate identity, culture, and belonging in an unfamiliar world. Far from the bureaucrats' expectations, the boys grow into influential figures, challenging systemic norms and becoming voices for their people. This thought-provoking documentary blends intimate storytelling with broader themes of colonialism and resilience, capturing the emotional weight of displacement and the enduring strength of heritage.
Through archival footage and personal reflections, Greenwald crafts a compelling narrative that questions the ethics of cultural assimilation. The film highlights the resilience of Peter Ittinuar, Zebedee Nungak, and Eric Tagoona, whose experiences shaped their activism and leadership. Atmospheres of both isolation and defiance linger as the documentary exposes the unintended consequences of well-intentioned but flawed policies.