A Scene at the Sea

Set along a quiet coast in Japan, the town's daily rhythm is defined by the tide and the sea. The beach and shoreline serve as both livelihood and dream for residents, with small shops and a tight-knit community watching over each other. The setting emphasizes the isolation and resilience of the deaf protagonist as he pursues surfing against the odds.

🧏‍♂️ Deafness

Deafness shapes every interaction and choice in the film. Communication relies on gestures and shared glances rather than spoken words, highlighting a world built from touch and attention. Shigeru's bond with Takako centers on patience, listening without sound, and a shared rhythm of everyday life. The theme explores resilience and the ways people bridge gaps when language is limited.

🏄‍♂️ Dreams

From a discarded surfboard, Shigeru discovers a powerful dream of becoming a surfer. With few resources and no mentor, he learns through trial, error, and stubborn perseverance. His dedication tests balance between work, relationship, and pursuit of a slippery goal. The dream is ultimately tested and shaped by the community's response and the sea's unpredictability.

💞 Love

Takako's unwavering support anchors Shigeru in his quest, even as he drifts toward the waves. Their communication, largely through gestures and expressions, underscores a deep trust beyond words. As surfing consumes more of his time, distance grows between them, revealing the emotional costs of pursuit. The relationship endures through quiet sacrifice and shared moments by the shore.

🌊 Sea

Nature, particularly the ocean, acts as a patient but powerful force in the film. The sea beckons with beauty and danger, shaping decisions and fates. The disappearance at sea marks a turning point that emphasizes possibility, risk, and the limits of control. The closing montage reinforces a sense of memory, longing, and reverence for the sea.