8 Views of Lake Biwa (2024)

On the shimmering shores of Europe's otherworldly edge, two teenage girls, Hanake and her best friend are discussing their first love interest while gazing out at yachts sailing to Kyoto. They whisper prayers and poems, the language of their longings. But the magic is fading in their isolated fishing village as they come to terms with a recent disaster, with some indulging in acts of erotic art, some in spiritual spells. It becomes clear that intimacy alone won't help them process their loss. In a deeply visceral tale, acclaimed Estonian director Marko Raat explores themes of love, illuminating the lives of a community who still believe that they are connected to the universe.