The hazardous chemicals poisoned the aquatic life and severely impacted the local community, mostly comprising fishermen. Smith and Aileen’s investigation entailed many dangers from the Chisso Corporation, which had reportedly dumped copious amounts of toxic effluents in the local river. The photograph was published in 1972, which drew immense attention worldwide. One of the most striking images of the photo essay titled ‘ Tomoko Uemura in Her Bath’ shows Ryoko Uemura holding her severely afflicted daughter in a Japanese bath. He produced the photo essay on the effects of Minamata disease, which was his last production before his death in 1978. Seeing the harrowing conditions of the local villagers, Smith was engrossed in his investigative effort and ended up staying in Minamata for three years. Smith traveled to Japan in 1971 with Aileen and had reportedly intended to stay for three months. The book provides photographic details of Eugene and Aileen Smith’s journalistic exploits while covering the effects of Mercury poisoning in Minamata, Japan. Eugene Smith and his wife, Aileen Mioko Smith. The film is based on the eponymous book by acclaimed war photographer W. Yes, ‘Minamata’ is based on a true story. If you are curious to know about the inspiration behind the story, we are here to help you out! An eclectic mix of sensitivity and intensity, ‘Minamata’ recreates 1970s Japan exquisitely, providing an immersive experience into the annals of history. Smith’s resilience and effort to unearth the truth puts him in dangerous situations.

Minamata japan mercury poisoning