Peter Freuchen was no ordinary adventurer. This Danish explorer, author, and anthropologist lived a life that reads like an action novel. One fascinating chapter of his life involved the 1933 film Eskimo, a movie based on one of his books about the Inuit people. This wasn’t just a story Freuchen penned; he was deeply involved in bringing it to the silver screen.
The movie, telling a fictional tale of an Inuit warrior in the Arctic, was remarkable for its authenticity. The entire dialogue was in Inuit language, subtitled in English. Freuchen wasn’t just the writer; he translated the dialogue, served as an interpreter on set, and crucially, helped the film crew navigate and survive the challenging Arctic conditions. Adding another layer to his involvement, Peter Freuchen himself played the villain in Eskimo. The film’s accolades included an Academy Award for “Best Film Editing,” a recognition that, while not directly tied to Freuchen’s multifaceted contributions, still underscores the movie’s impact. An anecdote from the film’s premiere perfectly encapsulates Freuchen’s larger-than-life personality: he reportedly lifted Nazi director Leni Reifenstahl, known as Hitler’s favorite director, above his head and spun her around, much to her displeasure. Remarkably, this boisterous act wasn’t fueled by alcohol, as Peter Freuchen was a teetotaler.
Beyond his cinematic adventures, Peter Freuchen also left his mark in Denmark by founding “The Adventurer’s Club” in 1938. This became a haven for like-minded individuals, a place where they could gather, share stories, and enjoy camaraderie in a uniquely decorated setting, complete with wood-paneled rooms and animal trophies. However, the rising tide of Nazism in Denmark during this period deeply troubled Freuchen. Known for his strong moral compass and physical courage, Freuchen was particularly incensed by anti-Semitic sentiments. Accounts describe his powerful response to any anti-Semitic remarks made in his presence. Standing tall, he would confront the offender directly, declaring, “I’m Jewish. What are you gonna do about it?” This bold stance against prejudice further cemented Peter Freuchen’s image as a man of principle and action, both in his thrilling adventures and his unwavering beliefs.
