Tokyo Celebrates Heritage and Diplomacy with Teaser Screening of Samurai Armor Restoration Documentary
Tokyo, Japan – November 13, 2024
Cultural heritage and international diplomacy were celebrated at the Film Club Utopia in Minato-ku, Tokyo, as an enthusiastic audience gathered for the exclusive teaser screening of “Forging Bonds: The Samurai Armor Restoration.” The event was hosted by the director and producer of the film, in collaboration with the Embassy of Malta in Tokyo. It showcased a captivating two-minute preview of a documentary focused on the restoration of a samurai armor originally gifted by the Tokugawa Shogunate to Malta over 160 years ago. Attendees included diplomats, cultural leaders, entrepreneurs, and historians, all drawn by the film’s unique perspective on cultural diplomacy and traditional craftsmanship.
Directed by visual artist and art director Irina Babanova- Eenabo, “Forging Bonds” is a tribute to Japan’s rich artisan traditions and a reminder of Japan-Malta historical ties that began with the armor’s presentation during the 1862 Bunkyu Mission. The film is a profound exploration of cultural heritage, art, and diplomacy, and delves into the meticulous restoration of a traditional samurai armor set—an iconic representation of Japan’s history. It symbolizes a bridge between nations, as it marks a momentous collaboration between Malta and Japan, fostering deeper cultural ties and mutual appreciation.
The event kicked off with surprise performance of a 500-year-old traditional Japanese drum -Otsuzumi, by a top master player Shonosuke Okura. This heartfelt tribute to Japan-Malta relations added a unique cultural layer to the event, resonating deeply with the audience as it underscored the spirit of shared heritage and friendship.
The teaser was met with great interest, offering a glimpse into the painstaking restoration process that honors the original Edo-period techniques while adding modern preservation practices. Babanova, whose background spans various artistic media, spoke about her motivation for her first documentary, which she said stems from her deep admiration for traditional arts and a desire to elevate the artisans’ work. “This project is about bridging cultures and elevating how we see and honor the work of artisans,” she explained. “The craftsmen involved deserve to feel the significance of what they create, not only as art but as a living connection between nations.”
The documentary director extended heartfelt thanks to her team: award-winning Videographer and Editor Oden, and composer Shaun Kono-Peck, whose original score added an evocative layer to the film. Special thanks were also given to key supporters, including H.E. Andre Spiteri, Ambassador of Malta to Japan; Harumasa Miyashita, CEO of the Kyoto Art Restoration Center; Pierre Bonello- Heritage Malta official representative; Kenichi Kuroyanagi – expert business entrepreneur; and Shonosuke Okura – a distinguished holder of Japan’s Intangible Cultural Asset designation, all of whom played essential roles in supporting the project.
Guests were also treated to an exhibition showcasing authentic pieces of the samurai armor prior to restoration, highlighting the craftsmanship and historical value of the artifact. Accompanying these were striking photographs of artisans meticulously restoring the armor, along with behind-the-scenes images capturing the filmmaking process. Additionally, a prominent photo of the Maltese Pavilion at the Osaka Expo was displayed, offering a glimpse of where the restored armor will make its debut, symbolizing the cultural and diplomatic collaboration celebrated in the documentary.
Following teaser screening, the event featured a lively panel discussion, where the director, the Maltese Ambassador to Japan, and a guest speaker – Heritage Malta’s Exhibition Manager, Pierre Bonello – delved into the project’s significance and the challenges of preserving such historical pieces. The panel explored further how the restoration project and the documentary itself came to fruition and the meticulous research required to authentically represent this piece of cultural history.
Reflecting on the film’s teaser, the guests expressed admiration for the visuals, narrative and the original music. Many noted how it highlighted the artisans’ skills and the shared cultural legacy that binds Japan and Malta.
The event concluded with a networking reception where attendees mingled, exchanged thoughts, and reflected on the documentary’s message of cultural diplomacy.
This milestone event marked Babanova’s debut as a filmmaker, combining her artistic passion with her academic roots to honor artisans and cultural preservation. The documentary teaser promises a compelling narrative of heritage, craftsmanship, and diplomacy. The full-length documentary, slated for a spring 2025 release, promises to be an inspiring and evocative exploration of Japan’s artisanal mastery and the enduring power of diplomatic bonds.
Director’s Statement:
“When I first encountered the story of this samurai armor and its potential to symbolize unity, I felt a profound need to share it with the world. The restoration embodies more than craftsmanship; it’s a testament to cultural resilience and the bridges built between traditions. I aimed to capture this spirit, honoring both the past and the present. This journey has been a labor of love, driven by my passion for art, history, and the beauty of human collaboration.”
– Irina Babanova – Eenabo, Director
Event Photo and Video credit: Adam Benedicto
Watch the teaser: