RICEBOY SLEEPS

A highly acclaimed semi-autobiographical feature based on the life of writer / director Anthony Shim.  Set initially in the 1990’s, we follow the life of So-young (Choi Seung-yoon), who a few years earlier, along with her infant son, left her native Korea and a life of poverty for the opportunities of Canada.  However, as the years go by, abject poverty is replaced by monotony, racism and bullying.  Will this mother and son find the better life they are both looking for?

This is an ambitious work from its young filmmaker – heartbreaking, tender and full of empathy.  If you enjoyed the award-winning American feature Minari a few years ago, then this is not to be missed.