From Carlos Reygadas to Hamaguchi’s Cinematographer, Tokyo’s Nippon Cinema Now Directors on Unexpected Connections
Five filmmakers presenting their work in Tokyo’s Nippon Cinema Now programme described the unusual encounters and experiences that shaped their films. Their stories show how unexpected collaborators, personal histories and creative freedom can influence projects across Japanese independent cinema.
At a Tokyo International Film Festival panel, Ueda Shinichiro said “Earthlings in Love” grew from a 30-episode vertical microdrama but was made on an independent-film budget for theatrical release. Debut director Saito Kisin said “Kefi” began with a sponsor’s theme of motherhood before he was given freedom to develop the story of three sisters mourning their father. Natori Satoshi drew on his past as a hunter and cited Tarkovsky as an influence; his film won the feature Grand Prix at Croatia’s Split Film Festival, where he met Carlos Reygadas. The article also features filmmakers Matsumura Shingo and Yaza Takenoshin.
In short
- Five directors shared unexpected stories behind their films.
- Ueda adapted a 30-episode vertical microdrama for cinemas.
- Natori’s festival award brought him into contact with Carlos Reygadas.
Explained simply
Nippon Cinema Now is a programme at the Tokyo International Film Festival that presents work by Japanese filmmakers. Independent films are often made outside the major studio system, with smaller budgets and more room for directors to shape their projects.
The filmmakers in this story include Ueda Shinichiro, Saito Kisin, Natori Satoshi, Matsumura Shingo and Yaza Takenoshin. Their routes into filmmaking differ: projects can begin with an existing short-form series or a sponsor’s theme, while a director’s past experiences and artistic influences can also inform a film.
The programme offers a way to see the range of work being made in Japanese independent cinema. Encounters between filmmakers, including through international festivals, can also connect their work with wider film communities.