15/30
In The Last of the Sea Women, an extraordinary group of courageous grandmothers wage a spirited battle against formidable oceanic threats. Often referred to as real-life mermaids, the haenyeo divers of South Korea’s Jeju Island are known for diving to the seafloor without oxygen for centuries to harvest seafood for a living. Today, with most haenyeo in their 60s, 70s and 80s, their traditions and way of life are in imminent danger. But these fierce, funny, hard-working women refuse to give an inch, and are supported by the struggle of a younger generation using social media to try to revive their ancestral lifestyle. This moving documentary takes a look at what drives haenyeo, young and old, focusing on their close friendships, smart independence and infectious sense of empowerment. What unfolds is an uplifting story of women taking on world powers to protect their beloved ocean and inspire a new generation.
