Inuvik (Feb 18/05) - The modern world is slowly, but surely, changing the face of the North and Inuvialuit filmmaker Dennis Allen wants to document this evolution.

"In my father's day, his world consisted of the region between Aklavik and his whale camp," said Allen. "With telecommunications and satellite television, my world is much vaster, but it doesn't beat the knowledge my father has."

His father is elder Victor Allen, the subject of an upcoming National Film Board co-production entitled My Father, My Teacher.

The senior Allen provides a window into the past while offering his thoughts about today.

"Some people say Native people have changed, but we have to change," he said between scenes Monday afternoon.

"I live in two worlds. The old life is gone now, you should know that."

According to producer Ken Malenstyn, the film will explore the relationship between Dennis and his father.

"Dennis is caught between two cultures and his Dad is an anchor for him to figure out who he is," said Malenstyn.

"And Victor, who's not afraid to tell you what he thinks, is really refreshing. It's been interesting for me and I'm sure a journey for Dennis."

The film crew has been in town for five days - its third trip to the region so far - to get some final footage before completing the project in Vancouver this spring.

At Jojo Arey's dog yard Monday, Victor waited for his scenes in his son's truck and remarked about the change in dogs - from working animals in his day to the racing dogs of today.

"Our dogs were much bigger and they were for working," commented the elder Allen.

"These dogs here are built for racing. They're nice dogs, though."

Just another example of how what was once a necessity for surviving on the land has become recreation in modern times.

Asked about his motivation for participating in the film project, Victor spoke about posterity.

"I have to leave some memories behind of my people to show my children, at least," he said. "To show how life used to be."

The film is expected to air on the Aboriginal People's Television Network (APTN) in the early fall.

The film should be complete by late-spring and is expected to make the rounds of the summer film festival circuit. There is also talk of an advanced screening in Inuvik.