Radish™
I had the pleasure of going to see the Anime film "5 Centimeters Per Second" at BFI Southbank in London yesterday. I liked Makoto Shinkai's previous work (Voices Of A Distant Star / The Place Promised In Our Early Days) and he was going to be at the screening - introducing the film, having an interview after the film about his work and what lies ahead.
It's been a while since I went to the BFI Southbank, it's still the same with the wide range of films - last time I went was when doing my A-Level in Film Studies and had to study some Humphrey Bogart films (which were cool)
Went by the film shop inside the BFI and they had some rare films and books, had quite a collection of Anime there as well - new Appleseed film, Elfen Lied collection, Tekkon Kinkreet to name a few. Listed there was Makoto Shinkai would be signing his artwork and DVD's after the film
Decided to be a bit lazy in the foyer, where they had some really comfy seating till the screening started at 6PM. Again more comfy seating inside the screening, but they had a no drinking/food policy - which was a bit of a letdown
Not going to explain the film, it's one you have to see for yourself I'm afraid - it's that good, animation, story, soundtrack - the whole lot
After it was screened, Makoto Shinkai came up on stage to have an hour long interview about his work, where his future work lies etc .... (including showings of his previous work). A well-mannered guy, came across as being very polite
He surprisingly had good English even though he has been in London for a few months but a translator was on hand (and he had trouble keeping up, everyone had a good laugh!). He said he in literal terms that he didn't like Japan and moved here for inspiration, then blurted out "I love London!" in crazy-Japanese style and everyone burst out laughing (including him!)
People in the audience had the chance to ask questions as well. It was a shame to know that the film had been licensed in the UK by ADV but not yet ready for distribution (I was hoping to buy a copy there)
After was a trailer of "The Place Promised In Our Early Days" before wrapping it up but letting everyone know he was going to start the signing at the film shop. When I got there the queue was so long it was coming out of the shop and going to the screening door
Waited for about 30 minutes, then got a copy of "The Shinkai Collection" on DVD, and got it signed by him. Also took a photo with him as well/shook his hand - which was awesome
All in all, a top day at the BFI. Can't wait for his next project to arrive
Radish™
