Rogue River Films Begins Production of Northern Stars

Rogue River Films has started the production of its feature-length documentary Northern Stars, set to hit the film festival circuit and bow on TELUS in 2026.

The documentary follows former Olympian and Indigenous trailblazer Sharon Firth as she takes on a cross-country skiing challenge to honor the passing of her twin sister, Shirley Firth.

The Firth twin sisters were known as the first Indigenous women to represent Canada in the Winter Olympics (1972, 1976, 1980, 1984). Now in her 70s, Sharon Firth will showcase determination, athleticism and grief. The documentary will delve into her inspiring life story of being stolen from her family with her twin sister, fighting through historical barriers and ultimately reaching Olympic glory together.

Northern Stars is directed by Todd Forsbloom, with Jim Shockey as executive producer and Erik Virtanen and Mike Wavrecan as producers.

“When I learned more about Sharon and Shirley’s moving story, I knew it had to be told,” said Forsbloom. “Sharon’s incredible life lends to the exploration of themes that resonate not only with Canadians in terms of Canadian history, sports glory and injustices, but also more global themes about underdog athletes who became world champions and stars of their sport. And importantly, how that drive and willpower has never left Sharon, to this day.”

The documentary is to be filmed in British Columbia, Alberta and the Northwest Territories until winter 2025.