The Last of the Sea Women is a compelling docudrama focusing on the Haenyeo, or the sea women inhabiting Jeju Island, South Korea. These women have withstood the test of time by gathering food from the bottom of the sea without any inhaling apparatuses for centuries due to their unique diving skills and determination. As the progress of mankind endangers their ways, the last generation of Haenyeo historically examines this issue amid persuasive modernity and attempts at conformity to modernity while still marking their tradition and heritage.
Cast:
Documentary with real Haenyeo women as protagonists
Sandra Oh as narrator
Positive Aspects:
Cultural Appreciation: The film advocates a disappearing culture in a complementary way to modern construction, as the women nomads do their best to keep it from disappearing.
Beautifully Shot: The ocean explorations should impress anyone thanks to the underwater shooting of the Haenyo’s work where elegance and peril are equally high as they reveal the beauty and treasures of the deep sea.
Heartfelt: The women-skin divers’ experiences would tear any heart to pieces with the stories filled with sacrifice, courage, and the sisterhood.
Negative Aspects:
Limited Audience: This film might not appeal to the broader audience because it intensely captures the narrative on a particular culture.
Documentary Style: However, those expecting a regular narrative in a film might find the pace of the documentary too slow.
