An interview with the Director of ABURIDASHI, screening at the 2024 Mosaic World Film Festival.
This work is an experimental documentary animation by the traditional Japanese technique of “ABURIDASHI”. And it’s consists of three parts: Beginning, Middle, and End.
“Beginning” is a personal video made to celebrate my friend Hiratake-san.
“Middle” is about Hiratake-san’s anger at the government responses to the Great East Japan earthquake.
“End” is about the fear of war in which get involved individuals.
This work depicts how my perspective changes from an individual to a nation over a period of 10 years.
1. What drew you to create this film?
This film is part of a video letter exchange between me and my friend Hiratake. It began when he expressed a desire to create an animation using “ABURIDASHI.” Ten years later, after my father passed away, a poem he wrote about his wartime experience—almost being burned alive by incendiary bombs—combined with the imagery of burning paper, resonated deeply with me. This connection ultimately took shape as a film.
2. What does filmmaking mean to you?
My production style is essentially to create works inspired by everyday life. Filmmaking is an integral part of that life.
3. What advice would you give students or beginners that want to make films?
You must complete your work, regardless of its form. Whether it turns out as a failure or a masterpiece, finishing a project is crucial. Even if the result isn’t perfect, completing it allows you to call yourself a filmmaker.
4. What films do you watch again and again?
I frequently watch experimental films. It’s unfortunate that these films are rarely screened. I particularly enjoy the works of John Smith and Johann Lurf.
My favorite movie is Where Is the Friend’s Home? by Abbas Kiarostami.
Thank you Nonoho!
You can get tickets for the #2024mwff here: https://filmfreeway.com/MosaicWorldFilmFestival/tickets