Natar Ungalaaq wins Genie

On April 4, 2009, one of our own - Natar Ungalaaq - was recognized by the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television for his magnificent portrayal of a man spirited away from his family when diagnosed with tuberculosis.

The film, "The Necessities of Life", is set during a dark time in our nation's history, especially from the Inuit worldview. A time when families were separated by this country's Aboriginal policies that demonstrated little recognition for the humanity of its indigenous peoples. Despite the horrific premise for this film, Natar delivered, yet again, a performance that was understated, compelling and ultimately exquisitely human.

Through his production experience and in his roles in television and his other films, such as The Journals of Knud Rasmussen, Kabloonak (Stranger), and Atanarjuat: The Fast Runner, Natar has also excelled in his crafting of characters who, although of our land, tell stories that reach far beyond our borders.

As well, Natar has been a source of pride for many years as an accomplished sculptor.

Natar, I congratulate you, and your colleagues at Isuma, on this wonderful achievement and thank you for the sheer beauty of Inuit life you sculpt into your life's work. We all anxiously await your next contribution to the ongoing Inuit story.

Nakurmiik Natar

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