Breaking colonial borders: Arctic collaboration and the emergence of Indigenous screen industries in Sápmi and Greenland

This article explores how collaboration across Arctic borders has enabled the emergence of ultrasmall, Indigenous-led sectors, examining the development of Indigenous screen industries in Sápmi and Kalaallit Nunaat (Greenland). The Sámi film industry has experienced a notable rise, driven by strategic transnational collaborations and the establishment of institutions such as the International Sámi Film Institute, which prioritize narrative sovereignty and cultural resilience. The developing Greenlandic cinema has followed a similar path, drawing on Sámi practices to build its own structures for growth, culminating in the establishment of a film institute in 2026. The study highlights how these industries confront legacies of colonialism whilst navigating challenges such as funding limitations, environmental sustainability, and filmmaker fatigue. Through comparative analysis, the article argues that Sámi and Greenlandic screen industries offer a model for other ultrasmall and Indigenous industries globally, demonstrating how cultural authenticity, ethical filmmaking practices, and strategic collaborations can coexist with global market integration. The findings underscore the importance of institution-building, transnational networking, and balancing local priorities with international opportunities. Ultimately, the article shows that Indigenous screen industries globally can transform traditional industry structures, asserting political and cultural agency whilst contributing to a broader reimagining of global cinema.