Inland Sea

The mesmerising beauty of Japan’s Inland Sea is the setting for this observational documentary about fading traditions, from Kazuhiro Soda (Oyster Factory).

"The island of Ushimado is home to Mr Murata, an elderly fisherman, who mutters about his daily catch and wonders if – at 86 – it’s time to quit. Only slightly younger is Mrs Koso, who has been delivering fish around the town for the last 55 years. Our unofficial guide to the island is another octogenarian, Mrs Komiyama, an enthusiastic chatterbox. The community is getting older, and the streets more deserted, with the exception of the stray cats. No one seems unhappy with their lot, however, especially the cats that thrive on tourist attention. Soda’s black and white film is imbued with a quality of gentle reflection, like a boat drifting across a glassy sea; time passes, and traditions fade gently away." (Sydney Film Festival)

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