Johnny Depp Connects with Minamata Victim Following 2020 Pollution Case Film Release

Hollywood actor Johnny Depp recently connected with Shinobu Sakamoto, a victim of the infamous Minamata mercury-poisoning disease. This meeting took place during Depp’s visit to Tokyo, following the release of his 2020 film about the Minamata pollution case.

Connecting Over Minamata Disease

During their discussion, 69-year-old Sakamoto, who suffers from a congenital form of Minamata disease, shared her experiences. “I did not choose to get Minamata disease,” she stated. “I want the world to understand. (The suffering) has not ended.” Depp expressed his willingness to assist, saying he would “love to help in any way.”

Meaningful Exchange

The conversation lasted roughly 15 minutes, facilitated by an interpreter. Sakamoto encouraged Depp to visit Minamata in Kumamoto Prefecture, where the pollution disaster occurred. She presented him with a personal photo, while Depp reciprocated with a signed card reading, “With all my respect and love.”

The Film “Minamata”

In the film “Minamata,” released in Japan in 2021, Depp portrays Eugene Smith, an American photographer known for documenting the town’s suffering. According to Aileen Mioko Smith, Smith’s former wife, there is a poignant scene in the movie where a woman confronts the president of the company responsible for the poisoning. This character is inspired by Sakamoto’s mother, Fujie, who passed away in 2019.

Current Visit to Japan

Depp’s trip to Japan also involves advance screenings of a new film he directed. His efforts continue to shine a light on the impacts of environmental pollution and bring attention to the ongoing struggles faced by Minamata victims.