The Last Days of Shishmaref (2008)

An Inupiaq community swallowed by the sea

Shishmaref is a community of about 600 people, located on an island just off the west coast of Alaska. The effects of global warming threaten the very existence of these people- so much that the entire population needs to be relocated off the island within 10 years. They have become the first tangible victims of the worldwide climate changes. The project exists of several components; exhibition, book, film, website, and educational program. In the documentary Jan Louter depicts the impending end of the traditional lifestyle on the island of Shishmaref trough the lives of three Inupiat families. Despite the alarming situation, the film has not become a political manifesto. The Last Days of Shishmaref is a moving film about identity, transience, mortality, and the clash between different eras and cultures.

Director: Jan Louter
Genre: Documentary
Runtime: 95 min
Release Date:
Cinematography: Melle van Essen
Editing: Riekje Ziengs
Production: Paradox, Miroir Film, LLiNK
Language: English
Original Language: en

Keywords

climate change, alaska

More Films by Director: Jan Louter
More Films in Genre: Documentary

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Last Days of Shishmaref about?
Shishmaref is a community of about 600 people, located on an island just off the west coast of Alaska. The effects of global warming threaten the very existence of these people- so much that the entire population needs to be relocated off the island within 10 years. They have become the first tangible victims of the worldwide climate changes. The project exists of several components; exhibition, book, film, website, and educational program. In the documentary Jan Louter depicts the impending end of the traditional lifestyle on the island of Shishmaref trough the lives of three Inupiat families. Despite the alarming situation, the film has not become a political manifesto. The Last Days of Shishmaref is a moving film about identity, transience, mortality, and the clash between different eras and cultures.
Who directed The Last Days of Shishmaref?
The Last Days of Shishmaref was directed by Jan Louter.
How long is The Last Days of Shishmaref?
The Last Days of Shishmaref has a runtime of 1h 35m (95 minutes).
What genre is The Last Days of Shishmaref?
The Last Days of Shishmaref is a Documentary film.