Takamine

Takamine is a Japanese film that revolves around a man who dreamt of building the ties between US and Japan.

This man was Junichi Takamine, who resided in US and hoped to build a miniature Japan in his vicinity. Takamine was a chemist by profession. Thus, his efforts reflected his academic inclinations. The story is set in the backdrop of 1900s, the period that is marked by unprecedented emigration of the Japanese to the US. This decade was also fraught with a multitude of issues that both the nations were trying to figure out, to revive healthy relations between them. Takamine soon stumbles upon a partner, who assists him in his endeavors. Perhaps, the plan is hatched out by fate itself. Mrs. Eliza Ruhamah Scidmore, a writer, photographer and geographer by profession becomes a part of the mission that Takamine undertakes, when she meets him in Washington DC. Both of them slog hard to bring up an entire plantation of cherry blossoms in the US.

This noble cause did get materialize near Potomac River in DC around 1912. This becomes a symbol of harmony and consensus, both the countries arrives at, in due course of time. 2010 witnessed the 100th anniversary of this mission that garnered immense support from the general public. Though such moves do seem baffling at times but, if this could be the beginning of something optimistic and good, then why not harp on them. Relationships that have gone awry with time do need such forthright attempts to evade bitterness that’s beyond repair.