John Houston

A scientific researcher, sent on a government study: The Lupus Project, must investigate the possible "menace" of wolves in the north. To do so, he must survive in the wilderness for six months on his own. In the course of these events, he learns about the true beneficial and positive nature of the wolf species.

An Inuit youth trains to become a great archer in hopes of avenging the killing of his family – but the First Nations attackers were punishing a previous Inuit wrongdoing. Who will end the cycle of violence? THE WHITE ARCHER is an Inuit legend inspired the late James Houston’s beloved children’s book. In Canada’s High Arctic hamlet of Pond Inlet, his son John weaves outdoor adventure and local theatre into a story for all ages.

Inuit traditional face tattoos have been forbidden for a century, and almost forgotten. Director Alethea Arnaquq-Baril, together with long-time friend and activist Aaju Peter, is determined to uncover the mystery and meaning behind this beautiful ancient tradition. Together they embark on an adventure through Arctic communities, speaking with elders and recording the stories of a once popularized female artform. Central to the film is Arnaquq-Baril’s personal debate over whether or not to get tattood herself. With candour and humour, she welcomes us into her world, to experience firsthand the complex emotions that accompany her struggle. Past meets present in this intimate account of one woman’s journey towards self-empowerment and cultural understanding.

A marginalized people rose up from humble beginnings, with nothing but their talent, their guiding principles, and their determination to leave none behind. The public has heard so many sad stories, but Atautsikut / Leaving None Behind reveals another aspect of the true North. In their own words, raw and unfiltered, the Nunavik Inuit and Cree recount their struggle and how their co-ops came shining through – a message of hope.

In L’Nuk 101: Finding Common Ground, filmmaker John Houston (Songs in Stone) examines the role education can play in the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Along with Dr. Cynthia Alexander and students from Acadia University, Houston facilitates an exercise in Engaged Learning, where aboriginal teachings are given real-world context and represent another way of achieving justice. Ultimately, the participants strive to answer the question: Where do we want to be generations from now when we talk about the relationship between aboriginal and non-aboriginal peoples of this country?

In Canada, in the minds of Inuit elders, lives a shaman/hero of equal power - suppressed for a century.