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集
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北国风云

北国风云

19908
剧情喜剧Sci-Fi & Fantasy
上映
1990年7月12日
国家
美国
制作
Falahey/Austin Street ProductionsCine-Nevada ProductionsUniversal TelevisionUniversal Television Entertainment
After receiving a scholarship from the state, a recent Columbia University medical school graduate is required to set up his practice in an eccentric Alaskan town.

About

Quick guide

A New York doctor starts a four‑year residency in an eccentric Alaskan town.

Joel Fleischman, a Columbia medical graduate, is assigned to run a small clinic in the remote town of Cicely, Alaska, as part of a state scholarship program. The town is home to a colorful mix of characters—including a former astronaut, a half‑Native director, and a free‑spirited pilot—whose quirky lives intersect with Joel’s attempts to practice medicine in an unfamiliar environment.

What to know

  • Joel’s contract requires him to serve four years in Alaska.
  • Cicely is a fictional town set in Alaska’s Arrowhead County.
  • The show blends humor with social commentary on rural life.
  • Characters often have unconventional careers and backstories.
  • Episodes are known for witty dialogue and occasional surreal moments.
  • The town’s culture includes Native Alaskan influences and environmental activism.

Watch if

If you enjoy a mix of gentle humor, thoughtful drama, and offbeat characters, and you like shows that explore community and identity without heavy violence, Northern Exposure is a good fit.

Skip if

If you prefer fast‑paced, high‑energy shows with intense action or graphic content, this series’ slower, character‑driven pace might not hold your interest.

light tonepolitical themesromance elementspsychological elementsfamily friendlydialogue heavyslow burnmature themes
The Town of Cicely
Cicely, a fictional Alaskan community, is the backdrop for the series. Its residents range from an ex‑astronaut turned rancher to a half‑Native film director, all living in a town that feels both remote and intimately connected. The setting provides a canvas for exploring isolation, culture, and the quirks that define small‑town life.
Joel’s Medical Journey
After graduating from Columbia, Joel must repay a scholarship by practicing medicine in Cicely for four years. His attempts to provide care clash with the town’s limited resources, leading to both comedic mishaps and heartfelt moments. Joel’s journey is a study in adaptation and empathy.
Character Dynamics
The ensemble includes Maurice Minnifield, a wealthy ex‑astronaut; Maggie O’Connell, a bush pilot; and Ed Chigliak, a half‑Native director. Their interactions with Joel reveal contrasting perspectives on life, work, and community, creating a rich tapestry of personalities that drive the show’s humor and heart.
Themes of Culture and Identity
The series examines the clash between urban and rural values, Indigenous heritage, and modern life. Through dialogue and plot, it highlights how identity is negotiated in a place where tradition meets change, offering thoughtful commentary without heavy-handed messaging.
Humor and Surreal Moments
Witty dialogue and absurd scenarios—such as a flying man and a living sculpture—provide levity. These moments are balanced with sincere storytelling, keeping the tone light while allowing for occasional surreal flair that enriches the narrative.
Music and Atmosphere
Music, ranging from folk to jazz, punctuates scenes and underscores emotional beats. The soundtrack helps capture the Alaskan mood and the quirky spirit of the town, contributing to the series’ memorable atmosphere.
Legacy and Availability
Northern Exposure aired from 1990 to 1995 and has since become a cult favorite. While not currently on regular broadcast, it is available on streaming platforms and DVD collections for new viewers to discover its charm.

FAQ

21 Q&A
Who is Joel Fleischman?
Joel Fleischman is a Columbia medical graduate who receives a state scholarship to practice medicine in Alaska. He is the series’ protagonist, navigating life and work in the town of Cicely.
Why does Joel work in Cicely?
Joel’s scholarship requires him to serve a four‑year term in a rural Alaskan community as repayment. Cicely is the designated location for his service.
Where is Cicely located?
Cicely is a fictional town set in Alaska’s Arrowhead County, often depicted as remote and culturally diverse.
Who are the main characters besides Joel?
Key figures include Maurice Minnifield, a former astronaut; Maggie O’Connell, a bush pilot; Ed Chigliak, a half‑Native film director; and the quirky townsfolk who add humor and depth to the story.
Does the show involve any supernatural elements?
Occasional surreal moments, like a living sculpture and a flying man, appear, but the series mainly focuses on realistic community dynamics.
Why are there no children in the show?
The series primarily focuses on adult characters and their interactions, leaving children as a minor or absent presence.
What is the show’s tone?
Northern Exposure maintains a light, humorous tone while addressing mature themes such as cultural identity and environmental concerns.
Is there any violence in the series?
Violence is minimal and never graphic; the show relies on humor and dialogue rather than action.
Does the show touch on political themes?
Yes, topics such as state funding, environmental policy, and rural health care surface throughout the narrative.
How long does Joel stay in Cicely?
Joel is initially assigned a four‑year term, which is later extended in some episodes, reflecting his growing ties to the town.
What role does music play?
Music ranges from folk to jazz and underscores key emotional moments, adding depth to the setting and characters.
Why does the town have a diverse cast?
The ensemble reflects the blend of Native Alaskan, immigrant, and mainstream American cultures, highlighting the town’s unique identity.
What is the relationship between Joel and Maggie?
Joel and Maggie share a complicated romantic tension that evolves over the series, providing a central emotional thread.
Who is Maurice Minnifield?
Maurice is a wealthy former astronaut who owns the town’s general store and becomes a central, eccentric figure in Cicely.
Are there any recurring jokes?
Yes, the show often employs witty dialogue, quirky scenarios, and character idiosyncrasies to maintain its comedic flavor.
Does the show address environmental issues?
Environmental activism and conservation themes appear, especially through characters like Maurice and local community discussions.
What makes the show cult‑classic status?
Its blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and unique character ensemble has earned it a devoted fan base over time.
Is the series available for streaming?
Northern Exposure can be found on various streaming services and DVD collections, though it may not appear on all platforms.
What is the significance of the town’s name, Cicely?
Cicely is named after a local figure in the series’ lore who contributed to the town’s founding narrative.
Are there any notable guest stars?
Guest appearances include actors such as John Corbett and Cynthia Geary, adding depth to individual episodes.
Do episodes have a consistent episode length?
Each episode typically runs around 42 minutes, standard for network television dramas of its era.

演员

Rob Morrow
Rob Morrow
Joel Fleischman
Janine Turner
Janine Turner
Maggie O'Connell
Barry Corbin
Barry Corbin
Maurice Minnifield
John Cullum
John Cullum
Holling Vincoeur
Darren E. Burrows
Darren E. Burrows
Ed Chigliak
John Corbett
John Corbett
Chris Stevens
Cynthia Geary
Cynthia Geary
Shelly Tambo
Elaine Miles
Elaine Miles
Marilyn Whirlwind
Peg Phillips
Peg Phillips
Ruth-Anne Miller
Teri Polo
Teri Polo
Michelle Schowdowski Capra
Paul Provenza
Paul Provenza
Phil Capra