In 1971, Life magazine photojournalist W. Eugene Smith feels as though he has nothing left to offer, now a recluse alcoholic regretting never having been there for his kids. Smith is approached out of the blue by Japanese translator, Aileen, who is hoping Smith will be convinced to come to Minamata, Japan to photograph and cover the locals who have been overcome with disease. Robert Hayes reluctantly sends Smith to Japan where he soon sees the devastating effects of mercury poisoning found in the coastal towns water supply. Corporate greed and local police have covered up the truth behind their unsafe water but it is only now that Smith is photographing and standing with the local protestors that they see a threat. Now facing personal danger Smith must stand strong or go home without a story.
Director: Andrew Levitas
Actors: Johnny Depp, Akiko Iwase, Bill Nighy, Minami, Tadanobu Asano, Ryo Kase, Hiroyuki Sanada, Jun Kunimura
Year: 2020
Length: 115 Minutes
Classification: MA15+ Strong themes
Rating:
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