GIFT
dir. Ryusuke Hamaguchi · 2023
The struggle to protect one's home and way of life reveals the deep connection between people and their environment.
Plot
We follow Takumi and his daughter who lead a modest life in the village in the middle of nature. One day Takumi receives word that there are plans to build a glamping site near his home. The discovery that wastewater will be piped into the village’s water source not only causes unrest among the residents, but also affects Takumi’s life.
Why watch
"GIFT" beautifully intertwines the delicate bond between a father and his daughter with the looming threat of environmental degradation, as they navigate the complexities of modern life in a rural setting. This contemplative drama invites viewers to reflect on the cost of progress and the importance of community amidst the encroachment of capitalism.
Talking points
- environmental ethics
- the impact of development on local communities
- fatherhood and responsibility
- the tension between tradition and progress