More than a documentary
Based on the travels and published memoir Ants in My Pants by Joyce Perrin, Northbound at 90 is a feature documentary that reflects on over 30 years of solo travel across 180 countries.
As Joyce reconnects with the people and places that shaped her journey, she prepares to explore her last unknown part of the world; the Arctic.
The Film
Not a film about extraordinary travel.
A film about what happens when you refuse to stop.
The Arctic functions as both the destination and the film's narrative engine. It provides a clear structure: a beginning (the renewed decision to go), a middle (preparation, doubt, and the resistance of those around her), and an end (the journey itself). This structure allows the film to move forward with momentum while honouring Joyce's past across seven continents as it emerges naturally in emotional and thematic contexts.
180
countries visited
57
age when she began
7
continents
90
age she continues
The Narrative
Past
180 countries.
7 continents.
Joyce Perrin began her greatest adventure at 57, and never stopped. Her memoir Ants in My Pants documents three decades of solo travel that took her farther than most dare to imagine.
Present
One expedition left unfinished.
Years ago, Joyce planned an Arctic expedition. Health concerns forced her to cancel. Now 90, she's preparing again. The film follows her preparation, her doubts, and the conversations she has with those closest to her as she commits to the final journey.
Future
The North Pole awaits.
Principal photography for the Arctic expedition is planned for August 2027. The film is currently in development with a target release of 2028. We are actively seeking partners, broadcasters, and supporters who believe this story deserves to be seen.
Meet the Creatives
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Joyce E. Perrin
SUBJECT & ADVENTURER
Nurse. CEO. WHO member. Cancer survivor. Mother of three. Joyce has lived more lives than most people dream of, and she started her greatest adventure at 57. Now at 90 years old and 180 countries later, she's preparing for the one journey she never finished: the Arctic. -
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Pedro Vargas
DIRECTOR
Brazilian director and the project's creator, Pedro brings a background in film and social media to his work, including a YouTube channel with over 3 million subscribers and a published book in Brazil. -
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Deniz Haciyusufoglu
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
A Turkish, Toronto-based producer working across development and production with a focus on women-led, globally resonant stories. Deniz leads the project's financing strategy, grant applications, and production logistics. -
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Mark Li
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
Cinematic and precise, Mark brings a background spanning narrative, commercial, and festival work to every frame. A collaborator trusted by international brands and independent directors alike, he's the eye behind the lens.
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Maria Lypyavka
WRITER
A filmmaker and screenwriter specializing in character-driven documentary and fiction, she works closely with directors and editors to shape structure, surface emotion, and turn real life into cinema.
The Journey
A story that
that doesn’t end at the credits.
▶︎ The Podcast
Joyce in conversation with ageing experts, adventurers, and the people who know her best. A companion series exploring what it means to keep moving, at any age. Coming to YouTube.
♦︎ JourneyWoman
In partnership with JourneyWoman, the world's longest-running travel resource for women. Joyce's story connects to a global community of women who refuse to let age define their horizons.
↗ The Memoir
Ants in My Pants by Joyce E. Perrin. The published memoir that started it all. Three decades of solo travel, in her own words. Available now.
Help send Joyce to the
North Pole.
Every contribution supports production, travel, and getting this story made.