The Asadas is a middle-class family living in a small fisherman's village in Japan. The mother provides the sole income to the family, working as a nurse, while a stay-at-home dad takes care of the house and their two sons.
Masashi is the main protagonist. He's the youngest brother and picks up photography from the very young age. However he does it his own way: with love and a prerequisite to fully understand his subject before taking the picture.
Despite cultural gaps (I'm French), the universality of individual choices that makes Masashi and family importance resonated in me.
First, Masashi pursues photography, a true passion of his, despite difficulties that can arise from an artistic career. He initiates projects, driven by inspiration or opportunities, without a clear career plan. As the movie progresses, dots connect. His life is punctuated by moments of doubts, limbo, but also bursts of creativity and compassion. This made me feel hopeful: at the end, if I follow my passion, everything will make sense at the end and I'll be able to contribute positively to the world in my own way.
The movie also stroke my family chord, as it reminded of all the fun and safe moments I have the chance to experience family. It made me appreciate what I have.
I fully recommend yo uto see this movie: it is subtle, heart-warming, and uplifting.
