Exploring the remote island of Akuseki, which is home to 83 residents, “Boze” portrays life on the island through a young man who came here to start a new life. A self-described Hikikomori, young Koki shows how he learned to embrace his community through strong social ties and being able to play the role of a ‘Boze’ at festivals.

“Boze” is screening at

Festival des Cinémas d’Asie de Vesoul

“Boze” is a difficult documentary to really critique or offer much insight as to the intended audience. This rests on the focus which lies on a small coastal town and a couple of residents who live there. However, there is nothing particularly fascinating about the subjects, and life on the island becomes a secondary focus to the personal accounts of two residents. This makes it difficult to feel connected with the material, especially to those who have not really experienced feelings associated with living in remote areas. Also, given the two people who are the focus are a former Hikikomori and a man who spent his life on the island, there is really not much to grasp onto for relating to the material.

To the credit of the production, it does manage to build a case for celebrating life on the small island with the story of young Koki. Through him, we see a youth reborn in being forced to participate within and contribute to a community. In this regard, the documentary takes on an insightful social message, which shows the importance of involvement for one to grow personally. Seeing someone who suffered through school and isolation emerge into a personality with a sense of pride and purpose is undoubtedly the most fascinating aspect of the production.

The island of Akuseki, having stayed largely untouched by the world, is picturesque and serene. This backdrop helps elevate the visual presentation, and by utilizing the various locals it manages to capture the island’s beauty. The production is chalked full of amazing shots that help to explain the draw of the residents in the face of the lack of easy resources into the island. Overall, the presentation is sharp through local work and cinematography making it easy to get lost in the profound beauty of Akuseki.

“Boze” works best as a snapshot of life on the island of Akuseki and a study of redemption for a young hikikomori. Hopefully, the documentary can show others the importance in community by taking care of each other and the human ability to thrive when placed under restrictions that force them to play an active role. Overall, “Boze” leaves with a positive message and some beautiful imagery, but manages to do little beyond that, resulting in a middling affair.