White Thunder, directed by Victoria King, is a gripping account of the tragic adventure of the SS Viking and an exquisite tribute to an early film pioneer. On March 9, 1931, the SS Viking left the port of St. John's, Newfoundland, and sailed into motion picture history. On board were New York filmmaker Varick Frissell and an unusual crew of seamen and Hollywood movie people. Their mission: to shoot the final scenes for an epic feature film on the lives of Newfoundland sealers. Six days later, an accidental onboard explosion killed Frissell and 26 other men.

White Thunder explores Frissell's fascinating legacy, integrating astonishing footage from The Viking, as well as his earlier documentaries, to present evidence of a remarkable filmmaking talent.