Educational Media Reviews Online

Attempting to give the viewer a feel for the life of the Nenetsi Samoyeds, this documentary follows them on their migration from their winter grounds in the forests to the tundra and the coast. The minimal narration provides a background sketch of the Nenetsi Samoyeds' rigorous way of life. The men are responsible for the care of the reindeer herds, hunting and fishing, and building and maintaining sledges -- their main mode of transportation. The wood sledges are constructed using only three basic tools. The women are responsible for all work associated with the tepee or tent in which the Nenetsi Samoyeds live. This includes not only cooking and sewing clothing for the family, but also sewing the hides for the tepee and striking and pitching them when changing camps.

Twice a year, in the spring and autumn, they stop at a city to buy six months worth of essentials such as matches, butter, flour, and tea. While their possessions are few, their wealth is in their reindeer herds and the independence that they enjoy.

The film footage combined with the stark narration and even starker soundtrack does an excellent job of portraying the harshness of a nomadic way of life in the Siberian tundra. The weather is extreme, the work is hard, and wood is scarce once the village moves from the forest. There are few, if any, modern conveniences in the nomads' lives. They depend solely on themselves and their reindeer for survival.

However, the film provides only cursory information on their traditions, religion, pastimes and sports. It is mentioned that the Nenetsi Samoyeds are wealthy, yet this is almost lost in the grim depiction of their lives. There is little shown in the way of laughter, play, and song.

This well-made program is most suited for social studies or anthropology courses at the high school and college level. While some younger students may be fascinated, many may lose interest due to the sparse narration. There are also scenes showing the slaughter of a reindeer and the branding of a calf which might be disturbing to some audiences.