A film “Reactor” reminds us about a tragedy in Japan. On March 11th, 2011 a 9.0 earthquake triggered a massive tsunami off the coast of Japan. This disaster resulted in an estimated 15,878 deaths and trillions of dollars in damage, including a partial meltdown at three reactors in the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant.
In April 2012, Yogi, Buddhist teacher and activist Michael Stone arrives on a pilgrimage to Japan in the wake of the tsunami and Fukushima meltdown to learn how the Japanese are responding to the crisis. Michael speaks with local residents, artists, activists, and researchers about life in the aftermath and reflects on the old Zen traditions and cities of beautiful temples. How we can embody the Bodhisattva vow in this time?
Michael Stone is a psychotherapist, yoga teacher, Buddhist teacher, author and activist, committed to the integration of traditional teachings with contemporary psychological and philosophical understanding. His research and teaching explore the intersection of committed spiritual practice and social action.
Ian MacKenzie, a filmmaker from Vancouver, Canada, produces short films, feature docs, and original webseries, with a focus on “new paradigm” thinkers, artists, and activists. His short film “REACTOR” aims to uncover how and why we can let go of old stories, and move towards personal and social awakening by bringing to light our interconnectedness and showing us that our actions matter. Fukushima presents the opportunity to re-evaluate basic assumptions about energy and technology but the temptation to double down on business as usual becomes incredibly strong.
Ian MacKenzie is an award-winning filmmaker & media activist based in the Pacific Northwest of Turtle Island (aka Vancouver). His work has appeared in The New York Times, National Geographic TV, CBC Documentary, The Globe and Mail, Adbusters, and film festivals around the world. His focus covers a range of diverse topics & subjects, though all fall under his mission of uncovering and amplifying stories of the emerging paradigm.