The young director Aliona Baranova uses her graduation film to tell us the tale of a sailor with enormous hands and a big heart who, when a little girl presents him with a lovely autumnal leaf, is soon overcome by a yearning for home. He wears this unexpected gift on his heart and its fragrance and appearance soon remind him of the big tree in front of his house … which he suddenly longs to see again. As the ochre and blue palette reflects the themes of autumn and the sea, we follow the giant character as he crosses the town in just a few strides to get back home as fast as possible. Once there he can settle down and ponder the various subtle autumn shades of the leaves on his cherished tree, which is the symbol of his roots and sense of place. The watercolour sets and delicate music enhance the gentleness of this charming tale, which will touch viewers of all ages.
