A Unique Screening Depicting Real Experiences: Shining a Light on Unsung Professionals
Last week, I attended the special screening of the film “Frontline,” organized by the Kanagawa Medical Association, held in Yokohama’s Minato Mirai area.
This event featured not only the film screening but also a talk session with Kanagawa Governor Yuji Kuroiwa, Dr. Hideaki Anan, who served as a coordinator for Kanagawa DMAT and is portrayed by actor Shun Oguri in the film, and Nobutaka Tatematsu, a government official. They shared vivid insights into the world of disaster medical teams (DMATs).
Governor Kuroiwa and Dr. Anan are not actors but individuals who actually worked on the front lines. Witnessing their real-life experiences while watching the film added profound meaning to the event.
Dr. Anan’s slightly complex expressions and comments left a lasting impression: > “In our daily lives, we strive for things to work 100% perfectly. But as DMAT responders during disasters, we can only manage 60–70% efficiency.”
Understanding the gravity of human life is what drives Dr. Anan to remain humble despite having his achievements depicted on the big screen. His determination and unwavering sense of resolve were evident throughout the event.
The talk session also shed light on the experiences of the ship’s crew. A doctor recollected the difficult times the crew faced, echoing what my former colleague, who used to be part of the ship’s crew, once shared: > “The crew had it the hardest. While taking care of passengers, they couldn’t return home. They remained unrecognized by the public despite their critical role. As a doctor, these circumstances were deeply troubling.”
Through this film, the spotlight was finally cast on professionals whose contributions had often gone unnoticed. It offered fresh perspectives and a new appreciation for their efforts.