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Review

In the small coal-mining town of Joban, located in the cold mountains of Japan, the villagers are threatened by the looming possibility of unemployment. The owners of the coal mine hatch a plan to build a Hawaiian center, complete with palm trees and hula dancers to generate revenue and help raise the village’s morale. The more traditionally minded villagers are completely against the idea, believing that women should be at home tending to the needs of their fathers and brothers instead of shaking their hips half-naked in public, but the younger women in town see the opportunity to escape their oppressive surroundings and renew their spirit. When a strong-willed Tokyo dance instructor, Hirayama, arrives in town, she inspires the women to understand the art of dance. For one of the girls, the world of hula dance will serve as an opportunity for her dreams to come true. Based on a true story, director Lee Sang-il has created a light, feel-good film that is by turns gentle, sharply funny and deeply moving without ever resorting to clichés. Hula Girlswears its heart on its sleeve and earns every laugh (and occasional tear) with genuine emotions and a cast of characters that you can’t help but root for. (Japanese with English subtitles)

 -- Lewis Tice