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The Japanese Wife

The Japanese Wife (2012)

Jan 03, 2012 1h 7m Documentary

Hariprobha Basu Mallik (1890-1972) of Dhaka married Japanese citizen Wemon Takeda and went to Japan in 1912. About her travel and experiences in Japan she wrote a book titled as "Travel in Japan by a Bengalee Woman" (Bongo Mohilar Japan Jatra). Regarding travelogues on Japan the first book that comes into any Bengalee's mind is Rabindranath Tagore's well known "Traveller to Japan" (Japan Jatri). But while Tagore wrote about the beauty and aesthetics of Japan with profound depth, Hariprobha portrayed the everyday domestic life of the common Japanese people. Japan, during the beginning of the last century, seems a different country altogether. Hariprobha, during her last visit to Japan in 1941, used to read Bengali news from Tokyo radio for Subhas Chandra Bose's Azad Hind Fouz. After the Second World War Hariprobha returned to India and died in Kolkata in 1972.

Directed by Tanvir Mokammel

Cast

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Chitralekha Guho

as Narrator (Voice)

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Syed Shabab Ali Arzoo

as Narrator (Voice)

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Hariprobha Takeda

as Self (Archive Footage)

Crew

Director
  • Tanvir Mokammel

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Thematic Analysis

The Japanese Wife represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Tanvir Mokammel brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2012, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Japanese Wife took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 67 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 123 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The costume department created over 450 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The musical score contains over 47 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 2012, when this film is released:
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: January 3, 2012
  • Runtime: 1h 7m

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