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Tell us what you think >>
Selected submissions will be posted here regularly, so visit again to read more
comments.
Read an update on Jimmy Mirikitani on The Film page. Visit the filmmaker's Web site for contact information for Jimmy Mirikitani and news about the availability of his artwork.
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As a history teacher and a person of Navajo descent, I was moved by Jimmy's story. What
struck an immediate cord was how much he reminded me of the older generations of Navajos.
His words, his movements, his demeanor. I believe in our post-9/11 world, we are destined
to repeat our past mistakes if we do not continue to look back and remind ourselves what
our nation, our government has done to groups of people during trying times. Historically,
we have allowed our fears to drive decisions and pressure legislators into making rash
choices about the future of different groups in our country. These governmental paths have
created more tragedy for many people who are already deeply touched by the events at hand.
Groups like the Native Americans, the Japanese-Americans, the Irish-Americans, the
German-Americans, the Arab-Americans, and the list goes on. When will we decide that we
have had enough of the hate, prejudice, and discrimination? When will we begin to treat
all people in our country with the integrity and kindness that all humans deserve? When we
stop categorizing people into groups and begin to look at every individual as a person who
has worth. We must not forget our country's history, for if we do, we ARE destined to
repeat the mistakes and tragedies of our past.
5/10/07
Sharlan Miller
Spokane,WA
My husband and I just finished watching. Sensei Mirikitani is an 'American' treasure.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to share in his experience.
5/10/07
Gordon Meyer
Alberta, Canada
WOW! Gripping documentary. I couldn't leave my chair until it was over. When it finished,
I was sorry it had ended as I had become so interested and involved.
5/10/07
This film brought a freshness to my dedication to serve the homeless and disenfrancised.
Thank you.
5/10/07
MaryEllen
Cleveland, Ohio
I found my self completely taken with the story of Jimmy Mirikitani. As an artist myself,
I was inspired by his unwaivering dedication, and passion for his art. His long memory,
and his strength. I believe that fate brought Jimmy and Linda together. I am amazed by all
they were able to accomplish together. Thank you for making such a beautiful, memorable
film.
5/10/07
Santa Cruz, CA
To quote Jimmy: "Linda, Linda, Linda... Thank You" - what a beautiful film and wonderful
deed!! It was late at night but you kept me mesmerized and emotionally connected. Jimmy:
Thank You! For sharing your story, and the beauty of your art.
Your work is like a phoenix, from the ashes of disaster, pain, tragedy, injustice and
sorrow - you brought forth beauty and a message of love and redemption to all of us.thank
you!
5/10/07
Jeff Huston
Oklahoma City
This short film is great. The creator of the movie should definately be rewarded for her
efforts and her prestine work. She is by far the most dedicated and inspiring person i
know. GREAT MOVIE. i will be purchasing a copy in December.
5/10/07
Jeff Huston
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Jimmy's a difficult and proud man, and Linda Hattendorf deserves an award not only for the
film but for her patience and diligence in helping the Master Artist. Ms. Hattendorf
handled the parallels between the post-9-11 hysteria and the reaction following Pearl
Harbor superbly. Jimmy's right. It is the same old story. If he can come to terms with his
treatment during World War II, surely the rest of us can take the little disappointments
and discouragements in stride. It is a great film, and a great story. Thanks for telling
it.
5/10/07
New Lexington,OH
In Mr. Mirikitani, find inspriation for perservering over terany, and ignorance. In Linda
Hattendorf, find inspriation for becoming the person you should be. Anyone with a brain,
and soul...or who would like to improve theirs, should watch this, and make 3 other people
watch it. A finer documentary, I have yet to see; well done Linda!and Thank you. Now to
figure out how to buy one of his works!
5/10/07
Deborah Coffin
Berkeley, California
The Cats of Mirikitani is the most extraordinary and possibly miraculous documentary I've
ever seen. Years ago I met the artist in New York and felt unsettled by him as we do when
we see people in obviously diminished circumstances making do as they can. Linda's
generosity and persistance in her efforts to help Jimmy reconcile himself to his past and
regain control of his life even in the face of his not inconsiderable resistance is
nothing short of heroic. Watching him speak to his long-lost sister on the telephone,
accompanying him on his return to the Tule Lake encampment that haunts his drawings,
seeing him in his new home...simply miraculous. Linda Hattendorf deserves to be nominated
for a Nobel Prize.
5/10/07
Dawn Nichols
Gainesville, Fl
I just saw this very moving video you beautifully made, please make many more, : D, it
makes my heart ache, laying on my couch alone, at 3 am, i prayed when they prayed, i
clapped outload when i saw jimmy with his sister and cousins' child at the end. what a
lovely person you are linda, to do all you have done for him, with such gentle care,and i
pray this film touches 1000's of hearts as it did mine. we all know these stories, and
their lessons, i'm 60,white,F, from n j,now fl., and more people need to feel them, and
never forget. God Bless you and God Bless Jimmy, may he live to at least 100!! Thank you.
i love pbs : D when will people learn, it starts with caring and loving and teaching our
young. if people could only learn to enjoy, learn from,appricate all cultures, what a
wonderful world it would be. i am an artist too : D i try to help others all the time.
it's what we're here for. : D
5/10/07
Angelique Sidler
This film gives me hope. It is amazing to see what can happen when we stop looking at each
other as "other", and just do what our hearts tell us to do. To reach out is to save
humanity, and as this story shows, the rewards we reap when we do reach out are unexpected
and innumerable. Thank you, Linda and Jimmy. You have inspired me and so many others.
5/10/07
Jon
Michigan
There are so many worthwhile programs that I am only able to experience on PBS.Too many of
these programs are being missed, and overlooked by our young people, the future of our
country.I wish that there were a way to convince our youth, to take the time to learn from
the many truly worthwhile, educational offerings that are available on PBS.
5/10/07
Quinn
One of the best documentaries I have ever seen. I was overcome with emotion for most of
the film. Another example of man's inhumanity to man told by a colorful and most
interesting human being. It shows how a nation can be so cruel when influenced by mass
hysteria. We need to learn from these mistakes and vow to never repeat them. Art is
emotion, and I think Jimmy's work is very emotional. As a non commercial musician I
totally agree with his philosophies on art. Linda did a great job conveying the
complexities of everyday life and everyday people. Every homeless person on the block has
a story, when will we start listening?
5/10/07
Linda Fujikawa
Honolulu, Hawaii
Peace begins in our heart. Thank you to each of you who made this film. In Mr.
Mirikitani's dream, after his return to the internment camp, as the spirit of the young
boy said in Japanese " Big Brother, Sayoonara..." At that moment, I felt a release from
anger in Mr. Mirikitani's heart. I am truly grateful that such a great messsage can be
shared with all through this outstanding film at this time when our world needs it most.
It is sometimes tragedy which compels us to unite as human beings. And peace begins in
each of our hearts. Let us learn from our mistakes. I will share this movie with my
students.
5/10/07
Paul Lum
Honolulu Hawaii
Linda is a saint. In a moment of compassion and kindness we are honored to view a piece of
history told through the eyes of a true survivor. Through this individual we should
remember the mistake america made and the shame we should feel. Life's have been crushed
and rights of individuals were taken away out of fear anger and racism. I am hopeful that
every one who sees this film open there eyes to see what is happening now in america and
around the world. Hate will create more hate it has to stop. I hope this film inspires
Kindness and compassion in all of us and remind us to take the time to help others less
fortunate. Treat every individual with respect no matter where they come from or what
color they are. We are all humans and we should treat each-other as we would treat
ourselves. If we do I think our word would be a better place.
5/10/07
Bettie
Salem, Virginia
I saw the story last night and was inspired by it and at the same time dissapointed by the
USA for doing that to such a passionate artist. I love his art style. I hope to one day be
as strong as he is. (I'm a struggling 19yr old artist in high school i wish he would visit
here some time.)
5/10/07
Binita Bhattacharya
Philadelphia, PA
My husband and I watched this film last night and we were both moved and inspired by
Jimmy's story. It is a perfect example of how every one of us, regardless of situation or
circumstance, has an interesting and remarkable life. Thank you for bringing Jimmy's
incredible story to us and everyone who has had the good fortune to watch it. I hope that
this story will influence people to be kinder to others in their daily lives, I know it
has for me and for my husband.
5/10/07
Jim Mc Curry
Galesburg, IL
beautiful film!!!--seen on Independent Lens, PBS, 8 April 07
5/10/07
Linda Coffey
I watched this show last night and was touched by Jimmy's story. I too am of Japanese
ancestry. I was born post WWII in 1952, but was adopted by Americans stationed in Japan in
1957. I was originally from Tokorozawa. I have always felt a love and connection to Japan
and its people. I do not believe anyone should be imprisoned based solely on their ethnic
heritage. What was done to the Japanese should never happen again to anyone. These people
were stripped of everything they had and were not even left with their self-dignity and
self-respect. Shame on us. Never again...I have 7 brothers left in Japan and have never
seen them. I have one brother who was adopted by another serviceman who was a friend of my
parents. In that way, I have a connection to my past through my brother. He was older than
I and remembers more about Japan. I am proud to be of Japanese heritage and also to be
able to embrace the USA as my home.
5/10/07
Thomas Paulson
Morris, IL.
Hats off to Linda Hattendorf and Masa Yoshikawa for taking the time to care and show a
little compassion for a fellow human being. With the restoral of Jimmy's citizenship, came
the restoral of dignity and well being and maybe a little faith in this country, his
country. This was a wonderful film that I will make sure my children see with me the next
time it airs.
5/10/07
Excellent. A great story told with great skill. For a while, I thought Jimmy was in my
apartment. I felt so close to what was going on I wanted to go out to a movie too. I don't
know how you did it. Thank you.
5/10/07
Greg
Oak Ridge, Tn/Honolulu
One of the most moving pieces i've seen on tv. Jimmy rocks. ms hattendorf ain't so bad,
either. good people.
5/10/07
Dan Barnett
San Antonio, Tx.
Very inspiring film.
5/10/07
Trish Donoghue
I watched THE CATS OF MIRIKITANI this tonight. I found the film so powerful on so many
levels.I thought the film was primarly about friendship and love of humanity. It
demonstrated how caring and friendship can change a life. I marveled at the remarkable
changes in Mr. Mirikitani, in his appearance, attitude and his art once he moved in with
Ms. Hattendorf. The film was a vivid reminder of the shame this country must bear for the
treatment of our own citizens who were of Japanese ancestry. The artisty of Ms. Hattedorf
and art of Mr. Mirikitani can help us to never forget. If we forget we are likely to
repeat. If we as a people allow governments to disrespect citizens and humans in general I
think we are bound to repeat our sins.
5/10/07
Jeff Taylor
Denver CO
Linda that was an incredible story. I was so glad to have sat down to see your wonderful
film. I had no idea where the story would lead and was drawn in by the unfolding events,
each more compelling than the last. The film, the editing, the soundtrack and of course
the heart-warming message, both personal and universal, really gave my spirit a lift. We
are so fortunate to have had your art involved in bringing Jimmy's art to us all. Thank
you so much.
5/10/07
Lindsay
Wow! I am amazed at how much this film touched me. I cried all throughout the sad and
happy parts. After seeing what a talented, interesting, and sharp individual Jimmy is, it
makes me wonder about all the wasted human potential forced to live on the streets. Kudos
to Linda Hattendorf for having the compassion to help Jimmy recover his life and his
dignity, while making an incredible film in the process.
5/10/07
Remarkable film that allows an otherwise anonymous streetperson to give us all an
emotional history lesson of World War 11. Without Linda's validation of Mirikitani, he
would have died a bitter man; she brought him full circle in allowing him to revisit and
remember anew his past with the wisdom of his 80 years. The miracle of nurturing another
soul and the fruits of her efforts are the making of one of the most important films I
have ever seen.
5/10/07
Steven L. Tanaka
Honolulu, Hawaii
Jimmy Mirkitani and Linda Hattendorf's documentary of his amazing life was touching this
evening! Mirkitani's history is my history too--my late father was part of Japanese
American Internment, though he never spoke of it at all until late in his life. My great
Aunt, who is still alive in Seattle today, survived the Hiroshima bombing as a small girl,
a Kibei, an American citizen sent back to Japan for traditional Japanese
schooling.
I've spent the last 10 or so years of my life piecing together my family history, all the
while teaching English at the University of Hawai`i at Manoa while working on my doctorate
in Asian American literature.
The connections between WWII and 9/11 are ones I have revisited again and again since 9/11
in my classrooms with students. Hattendorf's film now gives me yet another vehicle with
which to teach young American how to become active citizens in a democracy. Mahalo!
5/10/07
Honolulu, Hawaii
I love anything that's on Independent Lens. But I especially love it when the ending is
happy, like this one. I'm glad that Jimmy got to see his sister. Personally, I felt it was
too short. I was also wondering if I could purchase some of his artwork. If there is a
way, I would like to know how I could do that. I would greatly appreciate it.
5/10/07
Sharon Ulrich
Pittsburgh, PA
What everyone seems to be missing is: what if Linda had not stopped and noticed this man?
What if she had not taken the risk of sheltering a stranger in her home? Who else are we
walking by every day that has the same humanity as Jimmy that we are not taking the time
to notice? Finally, Jimmy proves that man does not live by bread alone. His art remained
and preserved him when he had lost everything else.
5/10/07
Nancy S. Brock
Tulsa, Oklahoma
We are writing a grant for a summer program and it will be going to Japan. This will be
next summer. We would like to ask Jimmy Mirikitani to go with us as a special guest and
Art teacher.
5/10/07
Liz Helwig
My husband and I stayed up late last night to watch this most incredible film. We found
ourselves loving Linda as much as we did Jimmy! He reached out to people about history,
survival, forgiveness, family, citzenship and so much more through his ART. Meanwhile she
taught the viewers and Jimmy about kindness, patience, respect, the brotherhood of
mankind, and making a difference in the word through her HEART. What a wonderful film
about humanity and I want everyone I know to see it! Thank you PBS!!!
5/10/07
Antioch, Tn. 37013
"The Cats of Mirikitani" the documentary has taught me tremendously. Mrs. Linda has a
great hearth and everybody should follow her steps. Her concern and good will has changed
Mr. Jimmy Mirikitani's life. Mrs. Linda taught him to forgive and overcome his anger and
loneliness. Thank You, Mrs.Linda Hattendorf. You deserve the Nobel Prize.
5/10/07
John Lee-Takaki
History will repeat itself if we forget, and the internment of JA's is slowly being
forgotten. Even among JA's the stories are not passed down. My father and his family were
interned, and they speak very little about it. Films, such as this one help me to better
understand what happened and not to forget.
Along those lines, art captures moments, emotions, snapshots of life. In this respect, art
helps us to visit a place we have not been. Mr. Mirikitani's art shows us the human side
of being at "camp." It helps us to feel and empathize with the JA's that were interned.
Art does that for me at least.
I wish I had a friendship like that. I have friends, but no at that level. Not at a level
where raw openness is allowed to take place. So many courtesies and norms in friendships
usually. With Mr. Mirikitani and Ms. Hattendorf, there is no real "political" dance
involved. There is a n honest yearn to discover the burried experiences and emotions that
usually are left unseen in everyday relationships. It was
very moving to see.
I actually stumbled on the film while channel surfing, and am glad I did. It makes me
wonder how many more "Jimmy's" are out there, with a story to tell, with a life to share
with everyone.
5/5/07
Woodrow Deitrich
This story is almost biblical. It covers a wide scope of humanity, from tragedy and
survival to beauty, compassion and renewal. There is a lot of love and humor, too. These
days when the world sometimes seems top heavy with disappointment and disillusionment, it
is a wonderful experience to watch this beautiful story unfold. You almost feel healed by
it.
4/25/07
Judy Jeong
I saw this movie today. It was a great movie that I hope everybody that I know could see
it.
There are so many individuals around the world who have been impacted by wars, genocide
and global violence across history until present, and most of them have never been able to
healed yet.
At the end, war is never about who's enermy or not, who is right or wrong --- war is
everybody's losing game. Nobody wins from war. That's just the way it is.
Many many Korean people have been healed from the cruel Japanese colonialism. The healing
could be stared by humanity to humanity, not by logic of who's wrong or right, good or
bad.
By the success of this movie around the world, I hope it would connect so many spiritis
wounded by wars and assit them to be healed just like Jimmy Mirikitani have done through
the filming till now.
Thank you.
1/30/07
Jim Carson
We saw this at the film festival. It is the best film, fiction or non-fiction, that we've
seen in a long time. An interesting, compelling story with a full range of emotions, from
sadness and anger to humor, happiness and peace. It could not have been better directed or
edited. Excellent all around. An inspiring story in a time when we really need one.
7/13/05
Judy O'Dell
Columbus, OH
I had the pleasure of viewing "The Cats of Mirikitani" this past weekend. Jimmy's story is
heart wrenching at times but also very inspirational. Linda's use of NYC scenes, music and
her own involvement in Jimmy's life draws you in and challenges you to look past your own
life. I highly recommend this film to all.
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