LOGLINE:
An innocent farm girl carries rare, prized carp to the Emperor to secure the village's annual tribute where she unexpectedly wins over the political masters becoming a Lady of the Imperial Court to live life on her own terms, not defined by her past.
Winner - Best Drama Screenplay. The Singapore Film and Script Festival Team, 2026.
SHORT SUMMARY:
In 12th century Japan, Miyuki lives peacefully in the village of Shimae with her husband Katsuro, the village's Master Fisherman, and young Hakuba, an aspiring apprentice. Katsuro dreams of retiring to a house by the ocean where he can train cormorants, while Miyuki longs for children of their own. Their tranquil existence shatters when a catastrophic flood strikes the river. Katsuro manages to save a magnificent Giant Black carp but drowns in the violent currents, leaving Miyuki devastated. After his funeral, the village Elders inform Miyuki that the precious carp must still be delivered to the Emperor's palace in the Imperial capital. When they suggest sending Natsume instead, Miyuki insists that only she possesses the intimate knowledge required to keep the delicate fish alive during the arduous journey. Despite objections about a woman undertaking such a dangerous task, Miyuki convinces the Elders by offering to take fewer but higher-quality carp, including the prized Giant Black that Katsuro died saving. However, the Elders deliver crushing news: while she is away, they will appoint a new Master Fisherman who will inherit the cottage Katsuro built, leaving Miyuki homeless upon her return unless she succeeds. With the village's survival depending on the Emperor's compensation, Miyuki embarks on a perilous journey that will determine not only her future but also honor her husband's final sacrifice.
HONORABLE MENTION – Wiki Screenplay Contest.
