The Birth of Kitaro: The Mystery of GeGeGe
In a celebration of the 100th anniversary of GeGeGe no Kitaro’s creator, Shigeru Mizuki, “The Birth of Kitaro: The Mystery of GeGeGe” takes viewers on a chilling journey back to the 1950s. The film serves as a prequel, delving into the origin story of Kitaro’s father and the supernatural mysteries that lurk in a remote Japanese village. A standalone story unfolds as a Tokyo businessman named Mizuki ventures to the village, only to uncover dark secrets and face a series of gruesome deaths. With an intense atmosphere and brutal violence, this horror film captivates audiences with its eerie narrative and supernatural twists.
A Few Moments of Cheers
“A Few Moments of Cheers” offers a glimpse into the creative process of making animated music videos, focusing on Kanata Asaya, a music video creator, as he embarks on a project for his classmate’s band. The film showcases the passion and dedication required to achieve artistic success, as Kanata goes above and beyond to impress his teacher, who happens to be a talented musician. While Kanata’s boundless enthusiasm drives the narrative, the story also sheds light on the struggles and dreams of other characters, offering a heartwarming look at the world of music video production.
The Scent of First Love
“The Scent of First Love” is a captivating music video that follows a young woman reflecting on her past relationship after a breakup. Directed by Maho Takagi, the video beautifully weaves together photographs and videos to depict the emotional journey of love and loss. With a painterly aesthetic and a poignant narrative, this short film showcases Takagi’s talent and promises a bright future in the world of visual storytelling. A fresh and evocative piece, “The Scent of First Love” leaves a lasting impression with its heartfelt portrayal of memories and emotions.