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DIAMONDS IN THE SAND

Japan, Philippines2024102:00Tagalog, JapaneseNorth American PremiereAvailable Online, Directed By Women, Drama, First Feature

In Japan’s aging society, kodokushi — the lonely death of the elderly — has become disturbingly common. Divorced salaryman Yoji (Lily Franky) is confronted with this reality when he discovers his neighbour’s decomposing body. The shocking experience forces him to face his solitude, deepened by his own mother’s ageing. Seeking escape and connection, he follows a caretaker to Manila, where his choice takes an unexpected turn.

Diamonds in the Sand explores the contrasts between two distinct Asian cultures. While reflecting on the isolation faced by many people in modern society, the film also captures the warmth, vitality, and complexity of family life in the Philippines. Within this vibrant setting, bonds bring both joy and hardship, connection and obligation. This is a bittersweet story of acceptance, the courage and impact of our personal choices, and the search for meaning within oneself and community alike.

– Rolando Basmayor

Cast

Lily Franky
Maria Isabel Lopez
Soliman Cruz

Recognitions

OFFICIAL SELECTION
Tokyo FILMeX, 2024
Udine Far East Film Festival, 2025
Taipei Film Festival, 2025

 

AWARDS
Best Debut Feature
Udine Far East Film Festival, 2025

Director Bio

Janus Victoria

Janus Victoria, a Manila-based writer-director, creates documentaries and films on human-place connections. She’s made six shorts, including Myth of Manila, as well as the documentary Encounters with Silence. Diamonds in the Sand is her debut feature.

8 Nov, 2025 5:15 pm

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IN PERSON & ONLINE ACCESSIBILITY

Wheelchair/Step-Free Seating Available icon

IN PERSON & ONLINE: This film is being presented with English subtitles for all spoken dialogue (no sound cues indicated).

Wheelchair spaces and step-free seating is available for this screening – click below to book accessible seats.

Sponsors

Community Supporter

Siné Institute

Kultura Toronto

POST-FILM DISCUSSION: DIAMONDS IN THE SAND

Join us for a Q&A immediately after the screening with director Janus Victoria moderated by Reel Asian artistic director Aram Siu Wai Collier.

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