My junior high and high school share the distinction of being the alma mater of legendary Japanese actor Ryu Chishu, often referred to as the “father of Japanese cinema.” Coincidentally, my home is located near his birthplace, and I share a strange connection with him: the year I was born and the year I entered junior high school are exactly 100 years apart from his. It’s a story I quietly cherish, though it feels a little bittersweet that none of my classmates know or care about it.
From an early age, I’ve believed in the power of the cultural arts—especially film and theater—to move people’s hearts and change their lives. As a teenager, I was deeply inspired by theatrical works created by my peers, and I set myself a bold goal: to debut as a film director before I turned 20.
Without knowing where to start or what to do exactly, I threw myself into the process. I tried, failed, struggled, and kept going. Through persistence and passion, I gradually shaped my vision into reality.
Eventually, directors and actors from the films I had appeared in—SagaSaga (Natsuto Aimi, 2023) and Techno Brothers (Watanabe Hirobumi, 2023)—joined the project and I was fortunate to assemble a dream cast including Ryu Kenzo (Ryu Chishu’s grandson), Kora Kengo (a fellow Kumamoto native), Ozawa Mayu, and Nakajima Runa. Many people came together to support this endeavor: cast members chosen through auditions, my high school upperclassmen, friends from the drama club, and numerous local businesses and organizations.
This film is a result of all of those connections, efforts, and dreams. I hope it will offer something fresh, move hearts in unexpected ways, and remind people of the quiet yet immense power of cinema.