"Diamonds in the Sand"

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Film still from "Diamonds in the Sand," directed by Janus Victoria (Philippines, 2024).

Divorced office worker Yoji has just buried his mother in Tokyo. With few meaningful relationships left, he comes to grips with the realization that he has nothing to live for. He is a rootless and lonely man who needs to break free from his isolation and the way of life to which he feels condemned in Japan.

A chance encounter with Minerva, a Filipina migrant worker who appears to sense his sadness, urges him to see his situation in a new way. When Yoji discovers the decomposing corpse of his neighbor, an old man whose name he does not know, the death is ruled a Kodokushi, or the lonely death. Unwilling to meet the same fate, Yoji throws caution to the wind to follow Minerva to Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. His visit to the Philippines radically changes his life, restoring his enthusiasm and zest for living in a world that feels more authentic, where communication is much more genuine. In Minerva, Yoji finds a soulmate and even a vital guide.

A film in the 2025 edition of the Asian Film Festival Barcelona.

October Film Festivals in and around Barcelona

October’s calendar is packed with an impressive list of film festivals in and around the city. Check out our article October Film Festivals in and around Barcelona where you'll find gritty investigative documentaries, hair-raising fantasy and horror flicks and everything in between!

For more events check our online events calendar.