It's A Beautiful Life – Irodori

Kamikatsu, an inconspicuous village hidden deep in the mountains, has the highest average age in Japan.

A rather illustrious title for a hamlet that is not only struggling with depopulation but now also with a severe crop failure. In a final attempt to make ends meet, a number of ladies come up with the daring idea of ​​starting a business in leaves. Yes, you read that right: leaves. Rest assured, your amazement is as great as that of the men from the hamlet.

It’s A Beautiful Life is the true story of their bumpy road to emancipation at an advanced age. And that with multi-million yen success as a result. Along the way, the film even lifts the veil of the authentic Japanese soul here and there: mountain air, loneliness and strong women who never give up. Take it from us: this easily digestible gem is the ideal film to start the weekend with.

All images: © 2012 “It’s A Beautiful Life – Irodori”