Minamata
MGMThere is a bitter irony in the story of director Andrew Levitas' Minamata, which details the conspiracy of the Japanese government to pollute and deny any involvement in poisoning its citizens with little coverage and documentation. The seemingly complex nature of having actor Johnny Depp in the lead at this point in time and the pressure on a studio like MGM to ultimately drop such a film in the words of the director himself will seemingly keep the story of Minamata and the photographs – as well as the subjects – from finding a voice. It is a true shame if Levitas' conspiracy is indeed correct: that MGM has dropped Minamata due to the perceived controversy it might obtain on release, as no doubt it feels a sure-fire to at least garner certain achievement within the academy award circuit, or at least has the scope to hit those very heights.
Again, the very irony of MGM getting cold-feet about Minamata due to Johnny Depp's casting is precisely what makes this feature tick and feel as emotionally immersive as it does. The actor is nothing short of incredible. His emotional depth and field of dynamic range is undeniably a reflection of the actors' personal life, but reflecting such through the prism of performance is specifically what makes this feature brood with pain and angst. The sarcastic and charismatic nature of the character of W. Eugene Smith is brought forward well by Depp, but when the film needs to touch the quivering heights of often harrowing and touching emotional depth, the actor equally presents a poignant, tender delicacy with brevity. Depp understands when to pause, retract said charisma and showcase an affecting warmth.
Not at all does it feel watered down or unjustified on the story and of these real people. Nevertheless, the feature does an exceptionally touching and poignant manner in presenting and showcasing this story. It moves forward with activism and justice in mind, showcasing such detail in its full and undisputed torture and agony. Made more so powerful is how such imagery is presented in stunning and utterly breathtaking composition from the director of photography Benoît Delhomme, who delivers a dazzling image in every frame. It feels even more saddening how it would get much acclaim or acknowledgement of bringing this story to life.
Granted, the positives do not stop there. The supporting cast is terrifically well-rounded with heart and soul. Minami's Aileen brings a warm and tender humanity to Depp's often stoic and brutish character. Her tenderness and brevity crafts a sympathy that battles the angst and anger brought forward by the performances of Hiroyuki Sanada and Ryō Kase as Mitsuo Yamazaki and Kiyoshi, respectively. Two characters at the opposite of the emotional spectrum who brood with torment and internal/external bereavement to this story that unfolds. Unfortunately, the screenplay and feature do not allocate much screentime, but these characters and their depth are undeniably felt.
Andrew Levitas' Minamata is a powerful, poignant and harrowing feature that provides a platform to showcase the shocking events with power and a voice – curated with exceptional cinematography and equally as effective performances. Levitas’ feature is a brilliant piece of cinema and one that deserves to be seen, not only on its basis of well-crafted cinema but to finally give the voice of these people to the world.
