Embracing Survivors: Documentary on JR Fukuchiyama Line Incident Wins Excellence Award

Embracing Survivors: Excellence Award for a Heartfelt Documentary

In a powerful acknowledgment of human resilience, the documentary "Invisible Scars: 20 Years After the JR Derailment", produced by Creek and River Co., has been awarded the Excellence Award at the 2025 Japan Commercial Broadcasting Federation Awards. The documentary was crafted in collaboration with the talented staff of Asahi Broadcasting Corporation and has been made accessible to the public through ABC Television News until March 31, 2026.

Directed by Nana Yamato of Creek and River and edited by Yu Bando, the documentary recalls the tragic Fukuchiyama Line derailment that occurred on April 25, 2005, in Hyogo Prefecture. On that fateful morning, a JR West express train with speeds exceeding 116 km/h surged through a curve where the speed limit was only 70 km/h. This catastrophic event resulted in the deaths of 107 individuals, including passengers and train crew, with 562 others suffering various degrees of injuries.

The documentary explores how the survivors of this disaster have coped with their trauma and moved on with their lives over the past two decades. By revisiting the individuals that the news cameras captured back then, the filmmakers shed light on their continued struggles and triumphs in the face of adversity.

A Look Inside the Documentary

"Invisible Scars" showcases in-depth interviews with survivors, illuminating their journeys of recovery and resilience. Narrated by Satsuki Miyagi and under the production direction of Yoichi Miyazawa, the documentary is a profound testament to the enduring human spirit amidst tragic circumstances. The production team's dedication reflects the mission of the Japan Commercial Broadcasting Federation, established in 1953, aimed at promoting the creation and broadcasting of quality programming while advancing contributions to societal welfare through media.

The documentary will air on ABC Television on May 30, 2025, presenting viewers with a unique opportunity to engage with a critical part of Japan's contemporary history and the people affected by its legacy.

The goal of awards like the Japan Commercial Broadcasting Federation Awards is to encourage the production of high-quality programming while also addressing advancements in commercial production and technical development. Winning the Excellence Award in the television reporting category underscores the documentary's impactful storytelling and its significance in raising awareness about the long-term effects of such tragedies.

About Creek and River Co.

Established in 1990, Creek and River Co. is committed to enhancing the lifetime value of professionals and contributing to the value creation of clients, operating in various domains, including video, games, web, advertising, and publishing. The agency's diverse operations extend to rights management, enabling them to explore innovative avenues like XR, NFTs, and the Metaverse, while continuing to innovate across sectors including health, IT, fashion, and agriculture.

With its multi-faceted approach, Creek and River strives to bring together professional wisdom to create new values and ultimately contribute to society's happiness. To learn more about their impactful work and creative endeavors, visit their official websites and social media platforms:

As "Invisible Scars" continues to touch hearts and provoke thought, it stands as a reminder of the importance of storytelling in honoring the resilience of the human spirit.