Little Forest: Summer/Autumn

In the poignant drama Little Forest: Summer/Autumn, released in 2014, we follow the journey of Ichiko, a young woman seeking solace from the heartbreak she experienced in the bustling city. Returning to her rural hometown of Komori, she immerses herself in the rhythms of nature and the simple pleasures of country life. The film beautifully captures her struggles against the sweltering humidity of summer, as she cultivates her own garden, bakes bread, and reconnects with the land that raised her. Through the tactile experiences of planting and harvesting, Ichiko not only learns to nourish her body but begins to heal her spirit.

As autumn arrives, the film shifts focus to the themes of preservation and reflection. Ichiko engages in the age-old traditions of pickling and harvesting rice, evoking a sense of nostalgia as she remembers her departure five years prior. The cyclical nature of the seasons serves as a metaphor for personal growth and the inevitability of change, as Ichiko confronts her past while embracing the present. Little Forest is a heartwarming exploration of self-discovery, showcasing the beauty of rural life and the importance of reconnecting with one's roots. With its stunning cinematography and a gentle pace, this film invites viewers to savor the small moments that lead to profound transformation.