Leaving On The 15th Spring

Far away from major cities, 360 kilometers from the subtropical Okinawa, lies a tiny island group deep in the midst of the Pacific Ocean where mobile phone coverage is nonexistent. Yuna is one of the 1200 islanders, who, like every 15-year-old craves the outside world and is struggling with her inner self. In this she exemplifies her mother who abandoned the island years ago and does not seem to want to return. On the other hand she resembles her stubborn father who does not want to part with his sugar cane fields. Since there are no secondary schools on the island, each youngster of 15 faces a choice: quit school to work in the fields, or continue studying in the big city on far away Okinawa.

This coming of age film, based on a true story, is about the inevitable tension between staying true to your roots and daring to say goodbye, between love and personal growth. This film is never sentimental, on the contrary it’s natural acting and calm palm trees swaying in the salty ocean breeze exemplify a true and honest story.

NOMINATED:

• Asia Pacific Screen Awards 7th, 2013 (Best Youth Feature Film)

All images: © 2013 “Leaving On The 15th Spring”