Batain Lai!! Minami no Shima no Mizu Monogatari
Synopsis
The year is 1917, and under Japanese occupation, Taiwan suffers from terrible drought and famine. Residents of the Chianan Plain live in squalor, their lives defined by the daily struggle of carting water home. When Yoichi Hatta, a Japanese civil engineer, arrives with a plan to reshape the area's irrigation dramatically, the local residents are quick to call him a liar. Xu Yingzhe, the son of a poor farmer, takes issue with the outright rejection of Hatta's plan and tries to reason and grasp the situation. Hatta's scheme may seem crazy, but it could be the very thing that improves the strenuous lives of the Taiwanese people. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
The audience acknowledges the film's historical significance and good intentions in portraying Yoichi Hatta's contributions. However, technical aspects like animation and music are considered weak, potentially limiting its appeal. Despite these shortcomings, the film is seen as a decent effort, particularly for those interested in historical dramas with a focus on engineering achievements and cultural impact.
Strengths
- The story is based on a true historical event, highlighting the impact of Yoichi Hatta's engineering on Taiwan.
- The narrative provides a slice-of-life perspective by focusing on the experiences of two young friends during the canal's construction.
- The ending is emotionally resonant, showing the lasting impact and remembrance of Hatta and his wife in Taiwan.
Weaknesses
- The animation quality is mediocre and may not appeal to a wide audience.
- The music is unremarkable and does not enhance the viewing experience.
- The plot execution might feel dull or boring to some, lacking the realism expected in live-action historical dramas.