Watch Far Western

Far Western is a unique and heartwarming documentary directed by James D. Payne, which chronicles the journey of two Japanese musicians, Charlie Nagatani and Masuo Sasabe, as they explore and impact the music scene in the American West. Starting in the early 1950s, Charlie Nagatani, who plays guitar and sings, and Masuo Sasabe on the harmonica, ventured to America to further their musical careers. This was a time when Japanese music was largely unknown and frowned upon in the States, and they encountered numerous challenges as they navigated a country that was still grappling with post-war struggles, racial tensions, and economic instability.

Despite these difficulties, Nagatani and Sasabe persevered, ultimately resorting to street performance in the cities of the American West as a means of survival. Over time, they built a dedicated following who came to appreciate their unique blend of Japanese and American musical influences, and they became instrumental in the formation of the country's folk and bluegrass scenes.

Throughout the documentary, we see archival footage and interviews with musicians and fans that attest to the influence that Nagatani and Sasabe had on the music industry, especially in the West. The documentary also chronicles their lives after they eventually returned to Japan, where they continued to collaborate and create music, influencing even more musical movements throughout the world.

What makes Far Western so compelling to watch is the way the documentary not only provides a rich history of America's music industry, but also of the people who helped shape it, especially those who are not often recognized for their contributions. The film has a solid pace, and Payne does a great job of blending historical footage with contemporary interviews and performance scenes that keep the narrative engaging.

The documentary is also visually stunning, relying on expert camera work and a muted palette that reflects the nostalgic and bittersweet tone of the story. The interviews with Nagatani, Sasabe, and other key figures are candid and heartfelt, allowing the audience to connect with the musicians on a deep, emotional level.

Overall, Far Western is a must-see documentary for anyone interested in music history, intercultural exchange, and personal perseverance. By highlighting the influence of Nagatani and Sasabe on American and global music scenes, Payne creates a powerful and inspiring tribute to the indomitable human spirit, even in the face of adversity.

Far Western is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 83 hours.