In Japan, train schedules are incredibly precise; delays are measured in seconds rather than minutes or hours.

According to ScienceABC, this punctuality is a result of sophisticated technology, careful planning, and a strong cultural focus on timeliness and consideration for others.

Filmmaker Ema Ryan Yamazaki highlights that the foundation for such a society lies within the primary education system. Her documentary, Instruments of a Beating Heart, provides a glimpse into a typical Tokyo school where children are preparing for first grade. Yamazaki herself experienced this educational approach.

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Yamazaki explains to Deadline that Japan’s punctuality and cleanliness are not innate qualities but learned behaviors. Reflecting on her six years in primary school, she states, “I learned how to be Japanese.”

Watch on Deadline

The director believes that the education children receive at a young age can indicate the future direction of society.

Instruments of a Beating Heart follows a girl named Ayame, who is excited to participate in a performance of Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” to welcome new first graders. The music teacher encourages the children to find joy in helping others.

Ayame earns the role of cymbal player but struggles with punctuality and preparation, leading to criticism from the teacher for jeopardizing the group’s harmony.

When reprimanded, Ayame is visibly upset, shedding tears.

Yamazaki acknowledges that some may view the teacher’s approach as harsh, but she sees it as vital for fostering growth and responsibility, as her own work ethic was shaped by this system.

Later, Ayame confides in her classmates about the pressure she feels, while a boy comforts her by sharing his own struggles.

Yamazaki contrasts the educational philosophies in Japan and the U.S., noting that in Japan, children learn their roles within a community first, fostering empathy and cooperation among peers.

Will Ayame rise to the challenge of the performance? Viewers can discover her journey in the film. Yamazaki hints that Ayame learns the importance of being accountable for her contributions.

The documentary is nominated for Best Documentary Short at the IDA Documentary Awards in Los Angeles.

Instruments of a Beating Heart expands on Yamazaki’s earlier work, The Making of a Japanese, which focuses on the school environment and the experiences of various students and teachers throughout the school year.

Person: Ema Ryan Yamazaki, Ayame, Eric Nyari
Company Names: New York Times, Deadline
Titles: Instruments of a Beating Heart, Long Line Of Ladies, The Queen Of Basketball, The Making of a Japanese

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