VISION World Cinema

In the lush mountains of Nara, Japan, thoughtful and withdrawn Tomo has taken refuge from the madness of the world, sharing a quiet life alongside mysterious herbalist Aki, a blind seer who possesses an otherworldly understanding of the ways of the forest. Yet their peaceful life is about to change with the arrival of travel writer Jeanne (Juliette Binoche), herself in search of a sacred plant known simply as “vision,” said to bloom every 997 years and with the ability to dispel human weakness, agony and pain. Soon, Jeanne’s presence opens up secrets long buried in the forest’s depths — as well as her own unspoken connection to the land — in this breathtaking new film from acclaimed director/writer Naomi Kawase. – Cedar Sherbert