The Festival is over but our Guest in Focus series is not. Today we will learn a bit more about Hajime IZUKI, director of The Light Dances, which is one of the short films of the TKY2015 project, which screened at this years Nippon Connection festival.
When and how did you first get into filmmaking?
When I was nineteen. When I entered the university to learn filmmaking.
What were your first film projects?
In filmmaking lectures, at university.
Where did you get the idea for The Light Dances, and what story would you like it to tell?
The story reflects how I felt on my own experience when I was a teenager, but is depicted in a different way.
Its theme is the sensitive emotions of a boy and a girl.
Were there any funny or difficult situations you experienced during the shooting?
In the last scene something unexpected happened during the shooting, which I thought messed up the shooting itself. However I made use of it and the film became more tasteful.
What do you think about the current situation of Japanese cinema?
Not good. I can’t put it in a nutshell because it’ll take time.
Which three Japanese films from the last decade do you think everybody should see?
All Around Us (directed by Ryosuke HASHIGUCHI), Heaven’s Story (directed by Takahisa ZEZE), Harmonium (directed by Koji FUKADA)
Do you have an all-time favorite film, and if yes, is there a particular reason why it’s your favorite?
I’m sorry, but I can’t choose ONE because I have many favorite films. Recently I have reviewed Director Shohei IMAMURA’s works. I particularly like Unholy Desire. It was shot in 1964, more than fifty years ago. The actors’ performance and presence are amazing, as well as film expression. I think film expression is universal.
Who is the director/filmmaker that influenced you the most?
I can’t choose ONE because I have too many directors/filmmakers I respect.
Have you ever been to Germany before, and if so, what was your favorite/strangest/funniest experience
I’ve never been to Germany, but I’d love to go. I want to watch a game of Dortmund vs Schalke.
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