Small, Slow But Steady

Shô Miyake
Filmfestival
Mon 24 Apr 23 - Sun 30 Apr 23

In this true story, boxer Keiko fights her way to recognition in a world that forgets about her.

Keiko is a cleaning lady in a hotel. She is deaf and communicates through sign language. In her free time, she is a dedicated boxer. That is not easy, because she can’t hear the bell nor the referee’s orders. And yet, boxing is Keiko’s way of expression in a world that forgets about her. Her club is her second home, but for how long?


This touching film is inspired by Keiko Ogasawara’s autobiography. It tells a story of resilience and courage. Actress Yukino Kishii is a rising star in Japan, which is showing in her outstanding performance. Her part requires intense physicality and emotional vulnerability. ‘Small, Slow but Steady’ is not quite your classical boxing film, but a contemplative gem.

direction
Shô Miyake
cast
Yukino Kishii, Masaki Miura, Shinichirô Matsuura
duration
99 min
year
2022
country
Japan, France
language
Japanese
Subtitles
Dutch


A sensitive and multi-layered character study driven by authentic emotions and the filmmaker’s genuine admiration for his characters.

Eren Odabaşı, International Cinephile Society