Press Release
“Northern Lights” Returns: A Portrait of Grassroots Politics in 1915 North Dakota
Film at Lincoln Center is set to revive the seminal 1978 film Northern Lights starting this Friday. Directed by John Hanson and Rob Nilsson, the film delves into the grassroots origins of the Nonpartisan League, a political party founded in 1915 in North Dakota by disillusioned farmers challenging corporate exploitation.
The narrative centers on Ray Sorenson, an organizer inspired by Hanson’s grandfather, and incorporates the reminiscences of 94-year-old farmer Henry Martinson. The film beautifully captures the stark yet tender realities of rural life through expansive imagery of the Great Plains, pairing hardship with moments of beauty.
Northern Lights employs a black-and-white aesthetic with rural non-actors, vividly portraying the struggles of early 20th-century immigrant homesteaders. The film’s authenticity is heightened by scenes depicting real familial dynamics, including a poignant yet tense engagement dinner between Ray and local girl Inga. As Ray faces disillusionment stemming from personal tragedies, including his father’s death, he becomes increasingly committed to the Nonpartisan League’s vision of better representation for farmers.
The filmmakers explore themes of love and social justice, with Ray’s political awakening coinciding with his growing bond with Inga. Despite occasional offbeat electronic scores from the 70s, the film resonates with folk music, enhancing its historical atmosphere.
As the Nonpartisan League evolves to champion farmers’ rights, audiences witness Ray’s sentiment, “For the first time in our lives, we felt powerful.” Northern Lights is not just a historical retelling but a timeless exploration of community, resilience, and possibility. This revival invites new audiences to experience the poignant and powerful narrative woven into the fabric of American political history.
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