Living on the River Agano ( Sato Makoto, 1992)

This film documents both the richness and the tragedy of those living along the banks of the Agano River, known as the spot where Niigata Minamata disease broke out. Filmed by a staff of seven individuals, including the director, who lived in the community for three years, this work quietly documents both the hardships and the warmth of these residents everyday lives along the river. Capturing poignant moments of daily life, the film offers a different perspective from that framed by social problems. This documentary, which may be likened to exposing film to the light, is a masterpiece in terms of the dynamics between camera and subject, among other factors.