Douglas Wilkinson

Land of the Long Day

Douglas Wilkinson

John Drainie

This short documentary journeys to Baffin Island. For four months in the summer, the Arctic has continuous daylight. During this time, provisions must be made for the long dark winter ahead. Idlouk, an Inuit hunter, recounts his experiences living in this northern land, where he hunts seal, walrus, whales and polar bears, among other animals. His wife, children and elderly parents each have their own work to do in their unending struggle to survive in this harsh land.

How to Build an Igloo

Douglas Wilkinson

This classic short film shows how to make an igloo using only snow and a knife. Two Inuit men in Canada’s Far North choose the site, cut and place snow blocks and create an entrance--a shelter completed in one-and-a-half hours. The commentary explains that the interior warmth and the wind outside cement the snow blocks firmly together. As the short winter day darkens, the two builders move their caribou sleeping robes and extra skins indoors, confident of spending a snug night in the midst of the Arctic cold!

Victorian Order of Nurses

Douglas Wilkinson

Describes the work of the Victorian Order of Nurses for Canada, showing prenatal and postnatal home visits, and the instruction of housewives in home nursing fundamentals. It also outlines the training of the Victorian Order nurse, and the important role she plays in the health of the community.