Arctic Legends and Love Collide in ‘Wrong Husband’

‘Wrong Husband’ is a striking new drama from Inuit director Zacharias Kunuk, whose earlier work, Atanarjuat: The Fast Runner, picked up plenty of awards back in 2001. This time, he takes us deep into the Arctic, thousands of years in the past, to follow the journey of Kaujak and Sapa, two young Inuit who’ve been promised to each other since they were kids. Their plans are thrown into chaos when Kaujak’s father passes away, forcing her to relocate to a neighbouring settlement ruled by a cold-hearted chief. With her fiancé left behind, Kaujak finds herself at the centre of unwanted attention from the local blokes, all keen to win her over. She holds onto hope that Sapa will somehow manage to reach her.

Folklore and Mythical Spirits

The film leans heavily into Inuit storytelling, bringing in legendary creatures that shape the fate of the characters. These spirits, both helpful and menacing, are brought to life through clever animation, adding a surreal edge to the otherwise grounded narrative. There’s a troll-like figure stirring up trouble, while a gentle fog spirit lends a hand, helping messages travel between separated loved ones. The blend of myth and reality gives the story a unique flavour, making it stand out from your standard drama.

Culture at the Core

Kunuk doesn’t water down the cultural details for outsiders. The dialogue is all in Inuktitut, and the customs are shown as they are, without explanation or compromise. This approach gives the film a real sense of place and authenticity. The slow, measured way the characters speak, along with the sweeping shots of the icy landscape, draw you right into their world. Even if you’re not familiar with Inuit traditions, the themes of grit, bravery, and the ups and downs of human connection are easy to relate to.

Fairy-Tale Traditions with a Modern Edge

At its heart, ‘Wrong Husband’ borrows from classic fairy-tale storytelling, but it’s no children’s yarn. The narrative is mature, engaging, and full of hope, with just enough magic to keep things interesting. The film’s mix of realism and fantasy, set against the stark beauty of the Arctic, makes for a memorable watch. It’s a story about love, endurance, and the age-old battle between good and evil, all told through the lens of a culture not often seen on the big screen.