In “The Last of the Sea Women,” an extraordinary group of fiery grandmother warriors wage a spirited battle against vast oceanic threats. Often referred to as actual mermaids, haenyeo divers from the South Korean island of Jeju are known for centuries of diving to the bottom of the ocean – without oxygen – to retrieve seafood for a living. Today, with most haenyeo now in their 60s, 70s and 80s, their traditions and way of life are in imminent danger. But these feisty, funny, hard-working women refuse to budge, aided by a younger generation’s struggle to revive the way of life of their ancestors through social media. Peering into what drives young and old haenyeo, this heartwarming documentary focuses on their close friendships, smart independence and infectious sense of empowerment, evolving into a thrilling story of women taking on world powers to protect their beloved ocean and inspire a new generation.
Leave a Reply