A masterpiece. Hans von Trotha on Deutschlandradio Kultur. San Miguel is a small, barren island off the California coast. When the ailing Marantha arrives there on New Year's Day 1888 with her husband Will, her adopted daughter Edith, and the maid Ida, she quickly realizes that San Miguel will not be the place for her recovery. Fifty years later, another couple seeks their happiness on San Miguel. Herbie Lester, a war veteran, and his young wife Elise decide to live their marital bliss in the quiet seclusion of the island. Once again, San Miguel puts human relationships to the test.