Soft Leaves" is an upcoming drama and coming-of-age film directed by Miwako Van Weyenberg, set to be released in 2025. The film explores complex family dynamics and cultural identities through the eyes of a young girl.
Plot Summary
The story centers on 11-year-old Yuna, whose life is disrupted when her father is hospitalized. This event leads to her reconnection with her estranged Japanese mother and half-sister, compelling Yuna to navigate the challenges of redefined family bonds and cultural rediscovery.
Director's Vision
Miwako Van Weyenberg aims to portray the delicate process of a young girl confronting significant life changes. The film delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the resilience of familial relationships, reflecting the director's own Belgian-Japanese heritage.
Themes
Family and Reconnection: Explores the complexities of reuniting with estranged family members.
Cultural Identity: Examines the blending and clashing of different cultural backgrounds.
Coming-of-Age: Follows a young girl's journey toward self-discovery amidst upheaval.
Resilience: Highlights the strength required to adapt to unforeseen life changes.
Key Success Factors
Authentic Storytelling: A narrative that resonates with universal themes of family and identity.
Strong Performances: Notably by young actress Lill Berteloot as Yuna.
Cultural Representation: Offers insight into Belgian and Japanese familial structures.
Festival Recognition: Selected for the Big Screen competition at the International Film Festival Rotterdam 2025.
Short Summary
"Soft Leaves" follows young Yuna as she reconnects with her estranged mother and half-sister after her father's hospitalization, exploring themes of family, identity, and cultural belonging.
Accolades, Awards, and Nominations
As of now, specific awards and nominations have not been announced. The film's selection for the International Film Festival Rotterdam 2025 indicates early critical recognition.
Production Summary
"Soft Leaves" is produced by Prime Time Production and Stenola Productions. The film features a multilingual script, incorporating Dutch, Japanese, English, and German, reflecting its diverse cultural narrative.
Distribution and Sales Summary
Cineart is set to distribute the film in Belgium, with international sales handled by ArtHood Entertainment. Release dates for streaming and Video on Demand (VOD) platforms have yet to be announced.
Release Dates
Theatrical Release: March 26, 2025, in Belgium.
Streaming/VOD Release: To be announced
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt28308317/
Link Review: https://cineuropa.org/en/newsdetail/473083/
About movie: https://www.cineart.be/nl/nieuws/soft-leaves-van-miwako-van-weyenberg-in-wereldpremiere-op-ffo
Recommendation
This film is recommended for audiences interested in heartfelt coming-of-age stories and explorations of cultural identity. Its authentic portrayal of complex family dynamics and the nuanced performance by Lill Berteloot make it a compelling watch.
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