Tsumiki no Ie

The world is slowly being consumed by water. In this submerged community, an elderly man persists by continually adding levels to his dwelling, a tangible effort against the encroaching tide. The fragile stability of his home becomes a metaphor for holding onto the past as he navigates an increasingly difficult existence. A seemingly small incident – the loss of a cherished pipe – triggers a deeper exploration, forcing him to confront not just the physical depths of his house but also the submerged memories of a life lived.

This short film presents a quiet meditation on time and memory, exploring themes of resilience and acceptance in the face of inevitable change. The animation style emphasizes a sense of grounded realism within an extraordinary setting, creating a contemplative atmosphere that invites viewers to reflect on their own relationship with the past and the future. It’s a poignant observation of how history shapes the present, even when the present is constantly shifting beneath our feet.