Northern Light isn't a documentary about Michigan's Upper Peninsula culture in itself. Instead, it's a humble and quietly thoughtful piece of cinéma vérité that follows three families who are connected to one another by their shared participation in an annual competitive snowmobile race. The directors shadow the families not only to the long and grueling 500-lap race, but also to their respective jobs as truckers, Walmart clerks, and nursing home attendants. The snowmobiling scenes seem secondary, but still remind you that quality of life depends on getting out in the world. Staying active means staying alive. (KELLY O)