For immediate Release: 3.1.09
Bonesteel Films releases one hour broadcast version of
The Mystery of George Masa
THE MYSTERY OF GEORGE MASA chronicles the life of George Masa, a mysterious Japanese immigrant who became well known in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina as a great photographer, hiker and explorer. A major character in Ken Burns’ The National Park: America’s Best Idea series to air in September 2009, this is the complete story of Masa who was instrumental in the founding of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the mapping and building of the Appalachian Trail. 
This special one-hour version (reduced from the 90 minute version released in 2003) is being released for public television distribution through N.E.T.A. and UNCTV for several unique broadcast opportunities.  First, 2009 is the 75th anniversary of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park making the entire year ideal time to present the story of a key player in the park effort.  And secondly, the September 2009 broadcast premiere of Ken Burns’ The National Parks: America’s Best Idea series will create additional interest in George Masa that can be satisfied by  THE MYSTERY OF GEORGE MASA biographic film. 
Back Story: In 1915, a small Japanese man named Masahara Iizuka came to the mountains of North Carolina. His name was changed shortly after his arrival and the mountains he adopted as his own were forever changed shortly after his death.
Masa’s mysterious past, his untimely death, and the passage of time have clouded our knowledge and appreciation of George Masa, until now.  THE MYSTERY OF GEORGE MASA recaptures many interesting details about Masa’s life, work, and influential friends, as well as his lasting impact on the preservation movement.
Told through interviews with a few living acquaintances, historians’ accounts, Masa’s own words from personal letters and journals, subtle re-creations, and a wonderful collection of the subject’s own photographs, THE MYSTERY OF GEORGE MASA uncovers many of the secrets that surround this immigrant's story.
For more information or an interview with the director contact: Bonesteel Films at: 828.236.0300  e-mail: info@bonesteelfilms.com