Five Japanese Directors Explain Their Odd Paths to the Screen

Five Japanese directors shared how they made their first feature films at the 39th Tokyo International Film Festival on Wednesday. The panel, held at Tokyo Midtown Hibiya, focused on the unconventional methods each filmmaker used to secure production support. The discussion highlighted specific instances where direct contact with industry veterans or personal life experiences determined the final form of their movies.

Ueda Shinichiro directed "Earthlings in Love," a film shot in a vertical format for social media. He adapted the project from a 30-episode microdrama series. Ueda stated that the budget was equivalent to a regular independent film, which allowed the project to meet theatrical release standards despite its digital origins.

Saito Kisin, a cinematographer, debuted as a director with "Kefi." He met a producer who found a sponsor for the project. The sponsor originally wanted a film about maternal love. Saito and the team discussed the idea and the sponsor eventually gave them creative freedom. The finished film follows three sisters after their father dies, a subject Saito chose to replace the original theme.

Natori Satoshi drew from his past as a hunter for "Chihiro | Akemi." He filmed in eastern Hokkaido to capture the distance between a house and the woods. Natori described the experience of hunting as a cycle that differed from his life in Tokyo. He noted that social roles disappeared in the wilderness, which inspired the film's narrative. The movie won the Grand Prix at the Split Film Festival in Croatia, leading to a meeting with Mexican director Carlos Reygadas who proposed a future collaboration.

Yaza Takenoshin directed "Hinotama: Ball of Fire." He had no prior experience with feature-length budgets. He sent a direct message to cinematographer Kitagawa Yoshio, known for working with Ryusuke Hamaguchi. Kitagawa agreed to shoot the film and connected Yaza with a producer. Yaza described the set as generous and open, noting he was the youngest person present during the production.

Moderator Ichiyama Shozo introduced the panelists by noting the unique nature of their projects. He specifically cited Ueda's vertical format as a reason for his selection. The five directors represented a mix of advertising, cinematography, and acting backgrounds. Natori concluded by emphasizing that a first-time director should make a film they are satisfied with, using the freedom that comes with inexperience.