New Documentary Explores the Life of Japanese Photographer George Masa

The enigmatic life of George Masa, a Japanese photographer whose work significantly influenced the preservation of the Great Smoky Mountains, continues to captivate audiences. Asheville filmmaker Paul Bonesteel, who has dedicated years to uncovering Masa’s story, is set to unveil new insights in his latest documentary.

Decades of Dedication

Paul Bonesteel initially captured Masa’s life in a 2003 documentary. His intrigue did not end there; he later collaborated with Janet McCue to co-author a book on Masa. This week, Bonesteel’s exploration of Masa takes a new turn with a fresh documentary, premiering at Asheville’s Fine Arts Theatre.

Uncovering New Layers

Bonesteel admits to having doubted the value of his extensive research at times. “I would wake up and be like, ‘Why am I so obsessed with George Masa? Why do I care?’” he shared during a talk at UNC Asheville. However, each new discovery, whether an old newspaper or a photograph, reaffirmed his commitment to Masa’s narrative. “This story is too good. I’m not giving up on George,” he concluded.

Photo courtesy of Western Carolina University Special Collections

George Masa was a successful photographer in Asheville who worked photographing the views of the mountains. He devoted much of his life to working to preserve the mountains through his photography.

Surprising Discoveries

The film, “A Life Reimagined: The George Masa Story,” reveals little-known aspects of Masa’s earlier life. Bonesteel and his team found that Masa played high-level baseball in Seattle and Portland before establishing himself as a conservationist and photographer in the Smokies. “That was a surprise,” Bonesteel remarked to BPR, adding that these discoveries illuminate Masa’s journey in America.

Challenges and Collaborations

Masa’s story is one of reinvention, as Bonesteel noted, drawing parallels with the immigrant experience. “I think as an immigrant, George Masa faced a lot of challenges,” Bonesteel explained. The documentary also highlights the collaborative effort behind its making. Researcher Angelyn Whitmeyer assembled a database of Masa’s photos, while Bill and Alice Hart created a collection of Masa-related materials. The Carolina Mountain Club and Japanese researchers also contributed to unraveling Masa’s life story.

Paul Bonesteel stands in front of several large-scale images of George Masa's work. — Paul Bonesteel stands in front of several large-scale images of George Masa’s work.

A Journey Told

Bonesteel’s film also chronicles the making of the documentary itself, a choice he found “relieved” him. “I didn’t want to hide behind just George’s story,” he stated. The documentary debuts in Asheville next Wednesday, April 29 and will be available on PBS stations, including PBS North Carolina, from May 12.