“I’m very proud of being a Greenlandic human.”
These words resonate deeply as the camera captures two figures ascending a sunlit mountainside on skis. Adam Kjeldsen leads the way, his son Ilik Skov Kjeldsen following closely behind. The crunch of the snow beneath them punctuates the serene atmosphere, underscoring the poignant interplay of silence and voice.
Thus begins the documentary Shaped by Land, encapsulating a narrative of strength, heritage, and unity—two generations forging their path together.
More Than Just a Ski Film
At its core, this film presents not just the thrill of skiing and the beauty of Arctic landscapes, but also delves into themes of identity and belonging. It raises essential questions about who tells the story of Greenland and who benefits from it.
Emily Sullivan, the film’s director, emphasizes that exploring the local skiing culture was a fundamental goal from the outset. “Many films focus on skiing in Greenland, yet few capture the essence of the local skiing community. Many visitors overlook the rich culture, which is truly unfortunate. When I first shared this project, I was often met with surprise—people saying, ‘I didn’t know you could ski in Greenland.’ It’s staggering,” reflects Sullivan, who resides in Alaska.
She notes the increasing global interest in Greenland, tempered by the need for its voices to be more prominently heard. “It’s vital to showcase a Greenlandic community that joyfully defines its relationship with the land,” she asserts.
For years, external portrayals of Greenland have often framed it as an exotic destination of untouched wilderness. Shaped by Land seeks a fresh perspective, focusing not just on the landscape but on the people who inhabit and understand it—the film’s true strength.
Naming the Mountains
Adam Kjeldsen is painted not as a typical action-hero figure but rather as a person who embodies calmness, expertise, and pride. He possesses an intricate understanding of the mountains: where the snow drifts and how the wind behaves, and he knows which slopes command respect. For Adam, guiding others is about more than just navigating the landscape; it’s about sharing the essence of Greenland that has shaped his own identity.
One particularly striking scene unfolds on the water as Adam calls out to a nearby boat, inquiring who will guide the tourists up the mountains. When informed it will be a Frenchman, disappointment flickers across Adam’s face. Yet, with a steady composure, he advises them to prioritize safety. This brief but telling exchange conveys more than a lengthy interview could.
The Implications of Foreign Tourism
As foreign ski companies increasingly market Greenland’s mountains, often without local insight or authentic connection, the landscape risks becoming a mere backdrop rather than a cherished home. The documentary doesn’t shy away from addressing the economic ramifications of this dynamic. Currently, while foreign operators attract tourists, few local entities gain a foothold in the market.
The film poignantly underscores that while nature belongs to Greenland, the profits often slip away. Politically, Greenland is addressing this imbalance with a new Tourism Act, necessitating local engagement and genuine Greenlandic presence in the industry to ensure that resources aren’t just sold from afar.
A Call for Depth
If Shaped by Land possesses a limitation, it’s that it brushes over the complexities it introduces. The documentary spans just 16 minutes, and while each moment is visually captivating and emotionally resonant, it leaves the audience yearning for a deeper exploration of the conflict between local guides and foreign interests, as well as the financial stakes involved.
While the film leaves viewers satisfied, it also invites them to ponder further.
Resonance with the Greenlandic Audience
The documentary promises varied interpretations, particularly between local and international audiences. Where some see adventure, many Greenlanders will find echoes of familiarity. Where others observe untamed wilderness, locals witness their home.
Sullivan hopes for this shared recognition: “I aspire for Greenlandic audiences to feel both pride in their skiing culture and hope for the future.”
This balance of beauty and intimacy, adventure and authenticity, stands at the heart of the film. When Ilik shadows his father up the mountain, the moment transcends mere skiing; it embodies a silent passage of knowledge, wisdom, and belonging from one generation to the next.
Through these poignant scenes, Shaped by Land succeeds not by over-explanation but by allowing landscape and individual to harmonize naturally.
This visually stunning and thought-provoking documentary not only portrays Greenland from an insider’s perspective but also challenges viewers to reflect on who truly benefits from the bounteous land.