Director Takashi Shimizu Explores the Sublime and Everyday Horrors in His Latest Offering

BUCHEON INTERNATIONAL FANTASTIC FILM FESTIVAL

Renowned director Takashi Shimizu, known for his iconic Ju-On franchise, delves into the realm of horror not merely to shock and entertain, but to invoke the nostalgia of childhood innocence. In his latest film, "Sana," which premiered as the closing film at this year's Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (Bifan), Shimizu explores a distinct narrative separate from his previous works, presenting a tale that lingers on the border of the supernatural.

During an online interview with the Korea JoongAng Daily on Friday, Shimizu shared his creative process, stating, "My films are inspired by my childhood memories. Your imagination flourishes during youth, and through my films, I seek to revisit that time, exploring the innocence I once had while imagining these dark stories."

"Sana" centers around a young woman named Sana, whose ghostly presence haunts those who dare to play a mysterious cassette tape left behind. The story takes an intriguing turn when members of a boy band named Generations stumble upon the tape, leading them to confront the wrath of Sana's vengeful spirit.

The inspiration for this unique plotline came from Shimizu's own high school days. Reflecting on a concert held at his school nearly 30 years ago, Shimizu recounted an eerie incident: "Someone recorded the band's performance, and when they played it back, a young woman's voice was heard, sparking rumors of a ghost. It was from this experience that the inspiration for 'Sana' was born."

While "Sana" exists independently from the Ju-On franchise, Shimizu pays homage to his earlier works by naming a character in the film after one from the Ju-On series, Toshio. Notably, the final installment of the Ju-On franchise, "Ju-On: The Final Curse" (2015), became the most successful foreign horror film in Korean cinema history.

Acknowledging the weight of his success with the Ju-On series, Shimizu expressed his desire to break free from its shadow and explore new thematic territories with "Sana." He aspires to create something even more renowned and influential, surpassing the achievements of his previous franchise.

In discussing the key elements of a good horror film, Shimizu emphasized the power of relatability. He stated, "When a film effectively captures everyday life, the fear it evokes stays with us even after leaving the theater. It creeps into our thoughts while we shower or use the bathroom alone, lingering as a true horror should. A good horror film should follow you home, extending its impact beyond the confines of the cinema."

Shimizu also expressed admiration for Korean directors and actors, revealing his interest in collaborating with director Na Hong-jin and actor Jin Ki-joo. He praised Na's film "The Medium" and Jin's performance in the Tving original series "Midnight," acknowledging the increasing collaboration between Korean and Japanese creators and expressing his eagerness to participate in such ventures.

As Takashi Shimizu continues to explore the realm of horror, his work stands as a testament to the profound influence of childhood memories and the power of everyday fears. With "Sana," he invites audiences to confront their own innocence and find solace in the sublime horrors that dwell within us all.

Sayart.net 

Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com