Written and directed by NAGASAWA Masahiko, Nagi’s Island is the director’s first film in nearly a decade. Nagasawa describes the film as “the culmination of his life’s work.”. At the heart of this sprawling emotional drama is a fourth-grade girl played by NIITSU Chise. NAGASAWA was so confident that she could perfectly embody the character of Nagi, that he reportedly cast the young lead of his film before she even spoke. The casting turned out to be quite serendipitous, as he later discovered that Niitsu’s family comes from the area where the film is set. 

Between the central Japanese islands of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu is the Seto Inland Sea ( 瀬戸内海). The sea was a historically important trade route and remains so today. In addition to being covered by bridges and an extensive ferry system, the area is home to one of Japan’s largest National Parks. The Seto Inland Sea stretches over 250 miles and has some 3000 islands, many of which are host to cities, and towns. It is on one of these small islands that this evening’s film takes place. 

The island lifestyle is new to Nagi, who was raised in Tokyo prior to her parents’ divorce, and provides a scenic backdrop for her growth and healing.  We hope you enjoy this touching exploration of family and love.