Here's a cool-looking short film that could use some support... Seppuku is described as a "Japanese American cinematic folk tale" about the ritual death and rebirth of Mari Yoshimori, an Olympic track star.
Directed and co-written by Daryn Wakasa, and starring Akemi Look, Tamlyn Tomita and Yuji Okumoto, "looks through the lens of a psyche molded through generations by the legacy of internment." The project recently launched a crowdfunding campaign through Seed & Spark to raise production funds.
Here are some more details about the story:
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.
Also watch the video here (it doesn't appear to be embeddable) to hear from the filmmakers about why this project and this story is meaningful to them, particularly as Japanese Americans.
They're currently raising money to go towards an additional two-day shoot at Manzanar -- which is expensive -- as well as post-production costs. The goal is to raise $12,465.
For further information about Seppuku, and to make a donation, head over to Seed & Spark. You can also visit the film's website and follow updates on Facebook and Twitter.
