Based on the book of the same name, the film follows American war photographer W Eugene Smith’s (Johnny Depp). On assignment in 1971 to Japan for Life magazine editor Robert Hayes (Bill Nighy), he chronicled the impacts of mercury poisoning in coastal communities.
Graeme Tuckett, Stuff 4/5 Stars “Heartfelt drama features Johnny Depp’s finest performance in years”.
RAGLAN MOVIES at the OLD SCHOOL, 5 Stewart Street, Raglan
MINAMATA: M Violence, Offensive Language and Content that may disturb 115 99 mins
- Sunday 20th June 7.00pm
- Saturday 17th July 4.30pm
Book online: raglanmovies.nz, call into the Old School office Mon-Fri 10am to 2pm. (Office closed public holidays)
Door sales from 30 mins before session times.
Licensed bar & homemade snacks on sale at all screenings.
Adults $15, Concession $12, RCAC Members $12, Children $8.
The reduced concession rate is for $12 concession (student, seniors or CS cards).
New York, 1971. Following his celebrated days as one of the most revered photojournalists of World War II, W. Eugene Smith (Johnny Depp)has become a recluse, disconnected from society and his career. But a secret commission from Life magazine editor Robert Hayes (Bill Nighy) sends him to the Japanese coastal city of Minamata, which has been ravaged by mercury poisoning; the result of decades of gross industrial negligence by the country’s Chisso Corporation. There, Smith immerses himself in the community, documenting their efforts to live with Minamata Disease and their passionate campaign to achieve recognition from Chisso and the Japanese government. Armed with only his trusted camera, Smith’s images from the toxic village give the disaster a heartbreaking human dimension, and his initial assignment turns into a life-changing experience. Based on the riveting true story, MINAMATA is a redemptive and emotional tale of triumph over adversity, and of how all of us have it within ourselves to make a difference.
Director: Andrew Levitas (‘Lullaby’)
Writer: David Kessler, Andrew Levitas, Jason Forman, Stephen Deuters
Cast: Johnny Depp, Minami, Hiroyuki Sanada, Bill Nighy
Drama | M, Violence, offensive language & content that may disturb 115 mins | UK, USA, United Arab Emirates 2020