
The Invention of Dr. NakaMats

The Invention of Dr. NakaMats
Where to Watch The Invention of Dr. NakaMats

The Invention of Dr. NakaMats is an engaging and humorous documentary that immerses viewers into the world of prolific inventor and eccentric personality, Dr. Yoshiro Nakamats (also known as Dr. NakaMats). This 2009 Danish film, directed by Kaspar Astrup Schröder, who is also behind hits like "My Playground" and "Life in a Day", paints an offbeat yet endearing picture of its protagonist, whose claims to have filed over 3,500 patents, more than Thomas Edison.
At the center of the film is Dr. Yoshiro Nakamats, an 85-year-old Japanese inventor who, despite his age, shows no signs of slowing down. His list of inventions, which he claims is greater than any other inventor's, includes the floppy disk, a calorie-free soy sauce, the "Pyon Pyon" spring shoes, a water-powered car, and a fuel-cell powered broom, among others. His endearing eccentricity is captured with a keen eye for humor and whimsy throughout the film, turning the inventor into a true cinematic character.
The film is an exploration of Dr. Nakamats' unyielding passion for creation and innovation. It explores his inventive process, which involves oxygen deprivation underwater, to stimulate the brain, amongst other unconventional methods. The film is rich with interviews and commentary from Dr. Nakamats himself, as well his family members, business partners, and opponents. All of them share their unique perspectives on the man, his madness, and his genius.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Dr. Nakamats is his planning and preparations for eternal life. He is bent on defying death and plans to live until the age of 144. His unusual beliefs and practices further contribute to his eccentric persona. He strictly adheres to a peculiar diet, most of which includes food he invented himself. He captures every meal he consumes from over 34 years with a photograph, detailing the nutrients ingested and their impact on his health.
Dr. NakaMats serves as a fascinating character study on one hand and an exploration of the inventiveness of the human mind on the other. Many scenes in the documentary are a visual treat as they weave through from his inventor's lair loaded with doodads, into his memory-enhancing "Cerebrex" room, and inside Tokyo's huge underground flood protection system, which he uses as the backdrop for gala award ceremonies. Alongside, the documentary also pokes into his perspective on politics and his long-time rivalry with the omnipotent IBM.
The Invention of Dr. NakaMats is beautifully shot and brilliantly edited. The film is an intimate, warm, and incredibly funny portrait of a man who is completely unfettered by preconceived ideas that most people have about limitations and possibilities. Many scenes will have you laughing out loud while others are surprisingly profound. At the core, the documentary poses the engaging question about the connection between eccentricity and genius.
In a true testament to his eccentric spirit, Dr. NakaMats takes the audience on a rollercoaster ride of humor, wisdom, stubborn perseverance, and unabashed self-assurance. He portrays an infectious optimism and zest for life that is hard to resist. His unorthodox thinking provides a valuable lesson for viewers to never disregard any idea as silly or impossible. His contagious laughter and unwavering belief in himself and his ideas, espouse an exceptional quality that every great inventor and innovator should possess.
Schröder's documentary does not merely offer amusement by chronicling Dr. Nakamats's colorful personality and quirks. It also offers social and cultural commentary on Japan and the importance placed on inventors in Japanese society.
The Invention of Dr. NakaMats is a must-watch for those who are intrigued by eccentric personalities, enjoy documentaries about singular individuals, or have a passion for innovation and invention. It extends beyond being a simple biography and delivers an insightful and entertaining look at creativity, ingenuity, and perhaps a dash of madness. It chronicles the life of an eccentric genius who is driven by pure curiosity and joy of discovery and presents a colorful saga of a man who truly embodies the spirit of invention.
