Hidden Histories and the Power of Narrative Film | Page 2

PROGRAM
PROSPECTUS

SEPPUKU

Directed by Daryn Wakasa

The troubling story of Japanese American incarceration
during WWII is an important but often glossed-over
part of American history. Hidden Histories and the
Power of Narrative Film commemorates and explores
this complicated history through five short films,
coupled with an optional post-screening discussion.
These films are unique in their creative use of narrative
techniques to bring audiences into the emotional core of
powerful first-person stories.
These films with their considerate yet thought
provoking approach will encourage viewers to learn
more about social justice issues, form their own analysis
and interpretation of the films in the program, and
finally become inspired to advance social change.

Seppuku is a Japanese-American cinematic folk tale that
chronicles the ritual death and rebirth of Mari Yoshimori. It
looks through the lens of a psyche molded through generations
by the legacy of internment, a tragic event tucked away in the
dark corners of America’s past. It’s a soul-searching journey to
recalibrate a spiritual compass and find new purpose in life.
Mari Yoshimori holds the U.S. record for the fastest 400 meter
time in track and field. Shortly before Olympic trials, she learns
that she has a potentially career-threatening torn hamstring.
This news crushes her soul. Not listening to her doctor or
mother’s advice, Mari keeps training, and pushes herself too far.
So far that the powers of nature thrust her into the depths of
a psychological purgatory. While there, she meets her spiritual
sidekick, Bettari. Petite, cute and mysterious, she communicates
through a handwritten sign as she playfully lures Mari deeper
into her domain. Only Mari can decide whether Bettari intends
to guide or destroy.

Narrative | 2016

YAMASHITA

Directed by Hayley Foster

Target audience
The series is appropriate for and aimed at children,
youth, and families as well as adult audiences.

*Optional Q&A (30 - 60 minutes)
The host can choose to have the screenings followed by
a discussion about Japanese American incarceration and
how this history is still relevant today.
A young Japanese-American girl struggles with
discovering her identity, heritage, and the loss of
her connection to her past in the context of the
Japanese-American Internment of World War II.

Animation | 11 minutes | 2013

As part of the optional screening package, Full Spectrum
Features will produce and present the discussion, or we
can provide the host with assistance in organizing a panel.