Renowned Japanese Film Director Miike Takashi Discusses Collaboration, Impact at International Film Festival Rotterdam

During an intimate conversation at the International Film Festival Rotterdam, acclaimed Japanese filmmaker Miike Takashi delved into his partnership with producer Misako Saka and reflected on the profound impact of his films on Japanese and international cinema.

The Controversial "Audition"

Speaking about his seminal work "Audition" (1999), Miike acknowledged its graphic nature. Despite not intending to "make a violent film," the film's intensity emerged through the collaboration with actors seeking to unleash their raw emotions. "I wanted to support actors to do more — if you want violence, just please go ahead," he explained.

Collaboration with Tadanobu Asano

Miike recalled his collaboration with actor Tadanobu Asano in "Ichi the Killer," a film notorious for its extreme content. Despite Asano's recent Golden Globe win, Miike praised his unwavering dedication to unconventional roles. "He has always focused on what he loves, what he wants to do and what he feels he should do," Miike said, highlighting Asano's unique approach to his craft.

Diverse Genres and Creative Evolution

Throughout his prolific career, Miike has explored various genres, from action thrillers to musicals and children's films. He attributes his multifaceted work to diverse encounters and artistic influences. "Films come to life by getting opportunities to do things you never even thought of," he remarked. "By meeting various people, their personalities blend with mine, and diverse works come into being."

Immersive Cinema and Self-Discovery

Miike described the transformative experience of filmmaking, where the director's conscious self fades away during the filming process. "Once you start shooting, you become completely absorbed, and you don't care at all about how others perceive you," he said. "In Japan, we call it 'losing oneself,' or forgetting one's ego and existence, and immersing oneself in the work. Then, surprisingly, commonalities emerge, and the true self, the one that isn't the self we are consciously aware of, comes to the surface."

Addressing the Audience in Filmmaking

Saka, from a producer's perspective, emphasized the importance of avoiding audience consciousness during film development. She believes that filmmakers should create without considering specific demographics, allowing for greater artistic freedom and authenticity. "If I were on the audience's side, I would want filmmakers to create without thinking about me," she explained.

Women in the Japanese Film Industry

Saka acknowledged the growing presence of women in the Japanese film industry, particularly in crew roles. However, she recognized the continuing dominance of men in leadership positions, expecting a gradual shift over time. "There are quite a few women below them. In 10 years, it might become a world dominated by women."

The Asian Horror Wave

Miike discussed his involvement in the late 1990s/early 2000s "Asian Horror Wave" alongside filmmakers like Hideo Nakata and Takashi Shimizu. He attributed the phenomenon to the desire to break away from the influence of Hollywood horror films. "The feeling that only Japanese filmmakers could break new ground existed in the context of those times," he said. "Japanese directors were creating their own space and, in Japan's case, it happened to be horror."

Inspiration for "Blazing Fists"

Miike revealed the motivation behind his latest film, "Blazing Fists," which centers on juvenile detainees. He sought to address the tendency among Japanese youth to blame external factors for their struggles. "Don't blame others. It's up to you whether you work hard and step into the ring," he said, summarizing the film's message.