My wife Kathy and I had the pleasure of attending a sold-out screening of the new film, “Yukon Unwritten,” by filmmaker Allan Code on March 22 at the Yukon Theatre.
As a special treat, both a musical prelude and interlude were provided by Johnnie Rodgers and the Moccasin String Band.
The film began with the Klondike gold rush, focusing on Dawson, Yukon, Canada. Code highlighted that even today, the Klondike is often associated with Alaska for marketing purposes.
The Fourth of July celebration in Dawson rivaled the festivities for Queen Victoria’s birthday on May 24th. Historical photographs depicted the bustling streets of Dawson during the gold rush in 1898, emphasizing the role of liquor sales in the creation of the Yukon as a federal jurisdiction.
However, Code stressed that Yukon’s history extends far beyond the gold rush, showcasing various historical vignettes throughout the film. The chapters explored archaeological sites, ancient mammoth remains, wildlife, salmon populations, and environmental disasters in the region.
Code shared insights on capturing wildlife footage, utilizing drones for aerial views, and the advancements in drone technology over the years. Additionally, he mentioned his son’s success at the Sundance Film Festival with a documentary on nuisance bears.
The film delved into the complex relationship between indigenous cultures and European settlers, highlighting themes of nature conservation versus resource exploitation. It addressed issues such as wildlife management, historical trade routes, and the impact of the gold rush on local communities.
Throughout the chapters, Code aimed to showcase the diverse cultural heritage of the Yukon, from the Filipino community to Scottish bagpipe bands. The film concluded with contrasting perspectives on land development and environmental responsibility, reflecting on the region’s past and present challenges.
Whether viewed in one sitting or as standalone chapters, “Yukon Unwritten” offers a comprehensive overview of Yukon’s culture and history, providing valuable insights for viewers to appreciate.
Michael Gates, the Yukon’s first Story Laureate from 2020 to 2023, has released a new book titled “Hollywood in the Klondike,” now available in Whitehorse stores. For inquiries, you can reach him at msgates@northwestel.net.
