Set in Hawaii, this feature film tells the story of a terminally ill man Masao Matsuyoshi (Steve Iwamoto), and the last days before his death. Director Christopher Makoto Yogi introduces ghosts, mythology, and self-reflection as Masao confronts his final days of life. This subdued film also blends the idyllic scenery of Hawaii’s countryside—lush foliage, distant mountains, verdant trees, and rippling streams—with the modern city structures of Honolulu to show how the island has changed since World War II. Masao has regrets but is able to face death with the help of his family and his beloved deceased wife.
The story begins with Masao speaking with his doctor who explains what he should expect with his terminal illness: pain and fatigue. The doctor asks if Masao has anyone who can come and help care for him. The film reveals that Masao’s young wife Grace (Constance Wu) died many years ago and when Grace passed away, Masao turned his three children over to be raised by their aunt, leaving Masao to live a solitary life. Now, it is difficult for him to ask his adult children for help.
One son lives on the mainland and does not come to help. Another son has issues of his own to deal with. That leaves his daughter Kati (Chanel Akiko Hirai) to come care for him, and she enlists her son Gavin (Kanoa Goo) to help as well. Both are reluctant to assist since Masao had little to do with taking care of them when they were young. Masao does not even currently visit them. Gavin proves to be a kind grandson, ministering to Masao’s needs.
With his illness, Masao has visions and sees his deceased wife Grace sitting in the bedroom near him. She talks to him as well, preparing him for what is to come. When Masao sleeps, he dreams of his youth and of meeting and falling in love with Grace, a Chinese American. Masao is a Japanese American and his family objects to him marrying Grace. Masao is forced to make a choice and he chooses Grace over his family.
Grace tells Masao that dying isn’t simple and she foretells his future while they walk along the ocean shore. Both are happy and plan their children’s names. Masao can’t believe it when Grace tells him he will leave his children after she dies. In the end, Masao imagines himself in the forest and a part of all that surrounds him as he passes away. While the film moves along slowly, it provides an uplifting ending. This tearjerker is a strong optional purchase for drama film collections with a focus on families or Japanese cinema library programming.
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