Filmfest to show how Japan coped with 2011 earthquake

Kolkata, Feb 13 (IANS) As many as five evocative films from Japan showcasing the revival and recovery of the nation post the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011, will be screened at a special film fest here beginning Feb 20, a statement said Friday.

"On March 11, 2011, the Pacific coast of Tohoku, Japan was hit by a powerful earthquake, triggering tsunami waves. The consequences of this earthquake was severe, leaving thousands dead and ten thousand more displaced, with heavy structural and financial loss," a Japan consulate release said.

All the films screened are based on themes directly or indirectly influenced by the tragedy. The two-day film fest will show films like "Fly, Dakota, Fly", "Casting Blossoms to the Sky" and "Things Left Behind" with English subtitles.

The fest is organised the consulate of Japan in Kolkata, in collaboration with Japan Foundation and will be held at Birla Academy of Art and Culture.

"They (films) stand as a tribute to the bravery and strength demonstrated by the people of Japan in the darkest hour, linking it with the aftermath of World War II, which left a deep scar in their hearts," said the statement.