**Anna Lambe Embraces the Cold to Showcase Iqaluit in ‘North of North’ Season 2**
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Anna Lambe, the rising star of the Canadian comedy series ‘North of North,’ has recently shared her experiences filming the second season in her hometown of Iqaluit, Nunavut. Known as Ice Cove in the show, this remote community not only provides a unique cinematic backdrop but also serves as Lambe’s home, bringing personal significance to her role as Siaja, a young Inuk mother navigating life’s challenges.
In an interview, Lambe recounted the harsh weather conditions the cast and crew faced during the five-week shoot. Temperatures plummeted to an astonishing -50 degrees Celsius, making filming particularly grueling. Reflecting on the difficulties encountered, Lambe described the experience as “brutal.” She noted that while filming the first season was challenging due to the limitations of shooting on a curling rink stage, this season presented a different set of obstacles, primarily because the majority of the filming took place outdoors in extreme cold.
Lambe elaborated on the chaotic weather, highlighting the presence of three blizzards during their filming period, which compounded the already difficult circumstances. “We had four weeks of -40, -50 [degree] weather, and it was tough,” she explained. Despite these challenges, she expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to share her community with a broader audience. “I feel so lucky to be part of this show that is showing a place that I love so much,” she shared with enthusiasm.
The shifting landscape of Iqaluit allows for an authentic portrayal of the community. Lambe’s pride in her heritage as an Inuk shines through as she emphasizes the importance of highlighting the humour, warmth, and resilience found within her culture. “It captures the joy and love that exists in our community and our pride around who we are,” she noted, reflecting on the significance of accurately representing her roots.
Filming ‘North of North’ also allowed Lambe to engage with her family and childhood friends who contributed to the production in various capacities. Staying with her parents throughout filming, she also revealed that her brother’s girlfriend had a role in the show and the community members lent their talents to the project. This personal connection makes the series not just a job but a celebration of her hometown, and Lambe feels fortunate to conduct the storytelling alongside familiar faces.
In addition to ‘North of North,’ 2023 has proven to be a busy year for the actress, who is set to appear in various upcoming films, including ‘Heart of the Beast’ and ‘The Social Reckoning.’ Despite this rapid ascent in her career, Lambe’s connection to her character, Siaja, remains a foundational aspect of her journey in the industry. Both Siaja and Lambe are on parallel paths, experiencing personal growth and self-discovery to varying degrees.
As the second season progresses, viewers witness the evolution of Siaja, who starts off feeling stagnant while those around her seem to be thriving. By the season’s conclusion, however, she experiences significant professional and romantic triumphs. Lambe draws parallels between her own life and that of Siaja, contemplating the feelings of accomplishment followed by uncertainty about what comes next. “We work so hard to accomplish something, and then when we achieve it, we often overlook the next steps,” she observed.
Lambe elaborated on her emotional connection to Siaja, stating that as she has developed the character, the two have taken on traits of one another. Her own victories have become intertwined with Siaja’s, creating an emotional resonance that deepens her performance. The actress recalled getting choked up while reading the script for the season finale, particularly during pivotal moments for Siaja and her family.
Though the second season leaves audiences with a sense of hope and accomplishment, Lambe is already looking toward the future with optimism. The series has garnered accolades, including multiple awards at the Canadian Screen Awards, bolstering her belief in its potential for a third season. “I love this show so much, and I love these characters so much,” she stated, hoping to see the series continue to grow.
As season 2 of ‘North of North’ arrives to a broader audience on Netflix, Anna Lambe’s dedication to her craft and commitment to showcasing her vibrant community resonates deeply. It is this connection that infuses the show with authenticity, offering viewers a glimpse into a world filled with pride, love, and resilience.
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