The series Doc & Talk: Living Together continues in Kinoler on 13 October. The screening starts at 19:30 and after the film the director will join our online discussion.

      The documentary of Kaspar Astrup Schröder turns the spectator’s attention to the often neglected but omnipresent topic of loneliness. Deepened during Covid-19, today this is a growing epidemic worldwide.

     In Japan it has become particularly severe as the pressures of modern life increasingly isolate individuals from their communities. “Dear Tomorrow” explores this crisis through the lens of A Place for You, a mental health hotline where dedicated volunteers provide critical support to thousands in need every day.

     The film follows two individuals struggling to find meaning in their lives, relying on the chat service and Japan’s growing governmental focus on loneliness as they seek connection. As they become aware of their need for human bonds, they embark on a journey of healing and renewal.

     “Dear Tomorrow” is both a stark reminder of how isolating modern life can be and a testament to the power of community, offering a glimpse into potential solutions for a growing global crisis.

Director’s statement:

“… Loneliness is profound in Japan. With one of the lowest birth rates in the world, Japan is entering a vicious cycle that, I believe, many other nations may soon face on their own horizon. So, when I read about Japan’s plan to establish a ‘Ministry of Loneliness’ I recognized an intriguing story that offers valuable lessons for all of us. I set out to tell a deeply human narrative about why such a ministry is even necessary.

‘Dear Tomorrow’ is a story about what makes us truly happy as human beings, as well as the different paths we take to reach that place—told through the lives of ordinary Japanese individuals and a government striving to prevent the situation from worsening…

… I sincerely hope that people of all ages and backgrounds will watch this film, as it addresses fundamental emotions and tells a poignant story filled with pain, longing, but also hope. It is crucial for me that the film carries a message of hope, which we find through the positive initiatives that the NPO fighting loneliness and the Japanese government are taking in the form of actions aimed at transforming loneliness into companionship.

People need people. And in today’s society, this is even more important to remember than ever.”

All Doc & Talk events are part of the Biergerpakt initiative by The Ministry of Family Affairs, Solidarity, Living Together and Reception of Refugees. Thanks to their support, the screening on 13 October is with free access. There will be simultaneous interpretation of the discussion from English to French.

You can register using this link.

Doc & Talk: Living Together is organized in partnership with the communes of Garnich and Bettembourg, as well as Ciné le Paris and Kinoler.