The Viking (1931)
An epic melodrama set amidst the Newfoundland seal cull

Directed by George Melford (of silent film fame) and introduced by Sir Wilfred Grenfell, this Newfoundland-American co-production is often considered “one of the most important Canadian films ever made” (National Archives of Canada). The Viking is an epic Hollywood-style drama that loosely adapts tragic events from the turn of the century, where hundreds of brave Newfoundland men lost their lives during their annual seal culls. It follows a conflict between two rural men out to sea and onto the ice floes where they settle their differences for good and all.

The dramatic elements are a little goofy at times, mainly due to the strange adaptation of the island’s language and accents, but there are some incredibly beautiful scenes set on the ice floes and sealing vessels. Not to mention the wonderful shots of a snow-covered Quidi Vidi. The film, which was originally named White Thunder, is widely known to be the first to make use of location sound recording (especially in Canada). Sadly, while filming additional scenes, producer Varick Frissell and two-dozen other crew members aboard the SS Viking were killed from an explosion.

This is the classic film in its entirety, finally available for public viewing online. We do not own this title in any way, we are simply making the only digitized copy available for cultural purposes.

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Justin Oakey is a filmmaker and avid outdoorsman born and raised in Newfoundland whose work reflects his passion for the rich history and traditions of his island.