In the year 2000, a visionary named Takashi Ito stood at the crossroads of tradition and innovation, yearning to redefine the landscape of filmmaking. Recognizing the untapped potential of high art in the cinematic realm, Takashi envisioned a space where individual expression would reign supreme, unencumbered by the constraints of conventional storytelling.
With unwavering determination, Takashi Ito took a bold step and founded our film school, a haven for those who dared to push the boundaries of creativity. His vision was clear – to foster a community of filmmakers who would embrace the avant-garde, transcending the limitations of mainstream cinema.
The school became a sanctuary for high art filmmaking, a place where students were encouraged to explore the depths of their creativity without conforming to industry norms. Takashi's commitment to nurturing individual voices resonated throughout the institution, creating an environment where the pursuit of artistic excellence took precedence over commercial considerations.
The funding provided by Takashi Ito not only laid the financial foundation for the school but also symbolized a commitment to the purity of artistic expression. His belief in the power of cinema as a medium for profound, personal storytelling infused the institution with a spirit of liberation.
As the years unfolded, the school became a beacon for filmmakers seeking an alternative path. We are proud of the countless films that emerged from the institution, each a testament to the power of unbridled creativity.
In the halls of our film school, the spirit of filmmakng endures, a guiding force that continues to inspire generations of filmmakers to break free from the shackles of convention and embrace the boundless possibilities of high art filmmaking. The story of our school is a living tribute to vision, a testament to the enduring impact of one individual's passion for cinematic liberation.
Principal
Takashi Ito, our visionary founder and director, is a luminary in the world of filmmaking known for his avant-garde approach. As a seasoned director with an illustrious career, Takashi has become synonymous with high art filmmaking, pushing the boundaries of convention in pursuit of individual expression. Motivated by a desire to create a haven for aspiring filmmakers, he founded our film school, fostering an environment where creativity thrives. Takashi's hands-on approach and mentorship embody the institution's philosophy, inspiring generations of filmmakers to break free from convention and redefine the narrative of cinema.
Tadanobu Asano, a renowned actor celebrated for his diverse roles. His presence enriches the student experience, offering a unique opportunity to learn from a seasoned professional with a penchant for pushing artistic boundaries. Asano's contribution to our institution elevates the creative atmosphere, inspiring students to explore new realms of storytelling in the world of cinema.
Michihito Fujii, a seasoned filmmaker, imparts his wealth of knowledge at our school, teaching directing, acting, and other essential aspects of the craft. His expertise enriches the student experience, providing aspiring filmmakers with valuable insights into the intricacies of storytelling, performance, and the collaborative art of filmmaking. Fujii's role as an educator contributes to the vibrant learning environment at our school, inspiring students to develop their skills and express their creativity with confidence.
Tsai Ming-liang, a distinguished filmmaker, lends his expertise to our school, offering invaluable lessons in the art of filmmaking. As a teacher, he imparts his unique perspective on storytelling, cinematography, and the creative process. Ming-liang's presence enriches our learning environment, providing students with the rare opportunity to be mentored by a visionary director known for his innovative approach to cinema. Under his guidance, students gain insights that go beyond the traditional, encouraging them to explore new dimensions in their filmmaking journey.
Mai Sakai, a prominent figure in the world of film, joins our school as a distinguished educator. With expertise in various facets of filmmaking, Sakai imparts valuable lessons in storytelling, cinematography, and the nuanced art of directing. Her presence enriches the learning experience for students, offering a unique opportunity to glean insights from a seasoned professional. Sakai's role as a teacher contributes to the vibrant and dynamic atmosphere of our school, inspiring students to develop their skills and unleash their creativity in the world of cinema.
Li Wei, our skilled Chinese editing professor, brings a wealth of industry experience to our school. With a focus on both technical precision and storytelling finesse, Li Wei guides students through the art of film editing. His expertise adds a global perspective to our curriculum, enriching students with insights from the traditions of Chinese cinema. Under Li Wei's mentorship, students hone their editing skills, mastering the craft of seamlessly weaving cinematic narratives.
Introducing Professor Nigel Thompson, our film history instructor. Through engaging lectures, he unravels the layers of cinema, offering students a comprehensive journey through its evolution and global influence. Professor Thompson's classes provide a captivating exploration of the historical forces that have shaped the art of filmmaking, instilling a deep appreciation for the rich heritage of world cinema.
Makoto Shinkai, a luminary in the world of anime, joined our school as an inspiring instructor. With a remarkable portfolio including acclaimed films like "Your Name," Shinkai imparts his expertise in storytelling, animation, and the art of creating emotionally resonant narratives. His presence enriches our students' learning experience, offering a unique opportunity to learn from a visionary animator and director. Under Shinkai's guidance, students explore the realms of creativity and innovation in the dynamic world of anime filmmaking.
Meet Professor Sekiguchi Hitoshi, dynamic and young screenwriter who brings a fresh perspective to our school. With a passion for crafting compelling narratives, Professor Sekiguchi imparts contemporary insights into the art of screenwriting. Through interactive classes and hands-on workshops, students benefit from his experience in the industry, gaining practical skills and a deep understanding of the evolving landscape of Japanese storytelling.
Takeshi Kitano, acclaimed filmmaker and multi-talented artist, joined our school in 2021. Renowned for his contributions to Japanese cinema, Kitano imparts his unique insights into filmmaking, acting, and the art of storytelling. Students have the extraordinary opportunity to learn from a visionary director and performer, gaining a deeper understanding of the creative process and the nuances of cinematic expression. Kitano's presence adds a touch of brilliance to our learning environment, empowering students to explore their artistic potential and cultivate a profound appreciation for the art of filmmaking.
Mamoru Hosoda, a visionary anime director, famed for his works like "Summer Wars" and "Wolf Children," Hosoda imparts his expertise in animation and storytelling. Students benefit from his profound understanding of emotional narratives and innovative animation techniques, gaining insights that go beyond conventional boundaries. Under Hosoda's guidance, our students delve into the captivating world of anime filmmaking, inspired by the mastery of a director celebrated for his creativity and unique storytelling style.
Introducing Hideo Sako, our esteemed professor renowned for his expertise in cinematography and visual storytelling. With a prolific career in the industry, Sako brings a wealth of practical knowledge to our school. His classes offer a unique blend of technical proficiency and creative finesse, providing students with insights into the art and craft of cinematography. Under Sako's guidance, students navigate the visual realm of filmmaking, learning to capture stories with precision and artistic flair.
Ryo Ishibashi, accomplished actor and educator, with a wealth of experience in the acting realm, Ishibashi imparts invaluable insights into the art of performance and character development. Students have the unique opportunity to learn from a seasoned actor, gaining a deeper understanding of the nuances of the craft. Ishibashi's presence elevates our learning environment, empowering students to explore their acting potential and cultivate a profound appreciation for the art of storytelling through performance.
Richard Linklater, a visionary director known for films like "Boyhood" and "Before Sunrise," became a distinguished instructor at our school. With a profound understanding of independent filmmaking, Linklater shares his insights into storytelling, character development, and the creative process. Students have the exceptional opportunity to learn from a director celebrated for his unique approach to narrative and time in cinema. Linklater's presence enriches our learning environment, inspiring students to explore their creativity and embrace the art of filmmaking with a fresh perspective.
Yorgos Lanthimos, the acclaimed Greek filmmaker behind "The Lobster" and "The Favourite," brings his distinctive cinematic vision to our school as an teacher. With an avant-garde approach to storytelling and a mastery of dark humor, Lanthimos imparts his insights into filmmaking, encouraging students to push the boundaries of conventional narrative structures. Under his guidance, students embark on a journey of creative exploration, learning to challenge norms and craft narratives that defy expectations. Lanthimos's presence elevates our learning environment, offering students a unique opportunity to delve into the art of unconventional storytelling.
Gaspar Noé, the boundary-pushing filmmaker known for works like "Irreversible" and "Enter the Void," become an influential instructor at our school since 2020. With his avant-garde approach to filmmaking, Noé imparts his unconventional insights into storytelling, visual style, and the exploration of human emotions. Students under his guidance embark on a cinematic journey that challenges norms and delves into the raw, visceral aspects of storytelling. Noé's presence enriches our learning environment, offering students a unique opportunity to explore the edgier realms of filmmaking and embrace the art of provocative storytelling.
Introducing Ayumi Tanaka, our esteemed camera operation instructor. With a passion for visual storytelling, Ayumi brings her extensive experience as a female cinematographer to our school. Her classes offer a unique perspective on the technical and artistic aspects of camera operation, guiding students through the intricacies of capturing compelling visuals. Ayumi's presence enriches our learning environment, providing aspiring filmmakers with insights from a talented professional who has navigated the dynamic world of cinematography. Under Ayumi Tanaka's mentorship, students discover the artistry and precision required to bring stories to life through the lens.
Thomas Vinterberg, the accomplished Danish filmmaker behind "The Celebration" and "Another Round," joined this year our school as teacher. With a profound understanding of storytelling and a distinctive cinematic style, Vinterberg shares his insights into narrative structure, character development, and the creative process. Students have the exceptional opportunity to learn from a director celebrated for his emotionally resonant films and innovative storytelling techniques. Vinterberg's presence enriches our learning environment, inspiring students to explore their creativity and embrace the art of filmmaking with a thoughtful and impactful approach.
Meet Professor Mei Lin, a trailblazing Chinese filmmaker, with a rich background in both narrative and documentary filmmaking, Professor Lin brings a unique blend of storytelling and visual expertise to our school. Her classes delve into the intricacies of Chinese cinema, offering students insights into cultural nuances and diverse storytelling traditions. As a female force in the industry, Professor Mei Lin serves as an inspiring mentor, encouraging students to explore their creativity and contribute to the evolving landscape of Chinese filmmaking.
Meet Professor Wei Chao, a distinguished acting and drama instructor, with a profound background in theater and film, Professor Chao brings extensive experience to our school. His classes are a dynamic exploration of the intricacies of drama and acting, offering students a unique perspective on the intersection of traditional and contemporary performance styles. As a passionate advocate for the rich cultural heritage of Japanese storytelling, Professor Wei Chao inspires students to immerse themselves in the art of acting, fostering a deep appreciation for the diverse narratives that shape Japan's theatrical landscape.
Professor Aiko Tanaka, an innovative Japanese instructor specializing in film editing and post-production. With a background in cutting-edge visual storytelling, Professor Tanaka's classes are a dynamic exploration of the technical and creative aspects of film editing. Known for embracing the latest industry trends, Aiko brings a fresh perspective to our school, inspiring students to master the art of crafting compelling narratives through the editing process. Under Professor Tanaka's guidance, students embark on a journey of creative discovery, honing their skills in a rapidly evolving cinematic landscape.
Meet Professor Hiroshi Sato, our visionary mentor specializing in special effects and visual wizardry. With a background in creating cinematic magic, Professor Sato's classes are an immersive exploration of the technical and creative realms of special effects. From practical effects to cutting-edge CGI, Sato empowers students to bring their wildest imaginations to life on the screen. His innovative approach and hands-on tutorials ensure that students not only understand the intricacies of special effects but also gain practical experience in applying these techniques. Under Professor Hiroshi Sato's mentorship, students embark on an exciting journey into the captivating world of visual storytelling through the lens of special effects.
Professor Kaori Nakamura, specialise in set design and function. With a background in creating immersive cinematic environments, Professor Nakamura's classes delve into the art and practicality of crafting compelling film sets. From conceptualization to execution, Nakamura guides students through the intricacies of set function, emphasizing the fusion of aesthetics and functionality. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for creating captivating atmospheres, Professor Kaori Nakamura inspires students to transform their creative visions into tangible, evocative settings. Under her mentorship, students gain the skills to breathe life into stories through the thoughtful design and functionality of film sets.
Maya Suzuki is, our visionary teacher specializing in world-building for storytelling. With a background in narrative architecture, Professor Suzuki's classes offer a captivating exploration of the art and intricacies of constructing immersive fictional worlds. From developing cultural nuances to designing landscapes, Suzuki empowers students to craft rich and authentic environments that enhance storytelling. Professor Suzuki's approach is characterized by a keen understanding of the emotional resonance that well-crafted worlds can evoke. Through hands-on exercises and theoretical discussions, she inspires students to think expansively, pushing the boundaries of creativity in the realm of world-building. Under Professor Maya Suzuki's guidance, students embark on a journey to create compelling and fully realized universes for their narratives to unfold, all while drawing inspiration from the unique perspective she brings as a female creator in the world of storytelling.
Lauren Mitchell is, our dynamic instructor specializing in location scouting for filmmaking. With a keen eye for cinematic backdrops, Professor Mitchell's classes delve into the art and practicalities of finding the perfect locations to enhance storytelling. From urban cityscapes to picturesque landscapes, Mitchell guides students through the intricacies of location scouting, emphasizing the fusion of aesthetics and narrative relevance in an Japanese context. His extensive experience ensures students not only grasp the technical aspects of scouting but also develop a nuanced understanding of how locations contribute to the overall storytelling experience. Under Professor Lauren Mitchell's mentorship, students gain the skills to transform ordinary places into cinematic wonders, elevating the visual and narrative impact of their films.
