"Mogari No Mori (The Mourning Forest)," the Japanese film that crept up from behind bigger-name productions to win the Grand Prix at this year's Cannes Film Festival, revolves around an old man's unswerving desire to find his wife's grave.

The main character's dedication may also reflect director Naomi Kawase's own commitment to creating art — and her trust in her ability to do so.

"I made a piece only I can make, and I am glad I didn't give up," the 37-year-old filmmaker said in an interview in Japan in early May, shortly before leaving for the internationally acclaimed festival.