Winning these awards brought me true confidence in my work. I strongly felt that we all share the sense of solitude, happiness and sorrow, regardless of nationality. In that sense, I think it is true that the film appeals to an international audience. After the festival screening, I had so many instances of local people such as restaurant waiters, joggers, etc. come up to bless me saying, That was a really beautiful film. And I feel those compliments are reflection of the acknowledgement of the film itself, as well as the success of the new experimental filmmaking style we adopted. I am deeply honored and appreciate for receiving these very special prizes.

The principal photography started in September last year. I remember the tanned and glowing faces of the crew. Every time we playbacked the shot, so many keen eyes looked into the monitor earnestly, which gave me an enormous energy. I would like to send my heartfelt compliments and gratitude to Mr. Ichikawa who gave me a mighty force of determination.

It makes me happy to think that Tony Takitani is traveling all over the world. I am further thrilled that on top of that, it has been awarded such rewards.

Last summer, I happened to hear that Mr. Ichikawa was planning to make a movie based on Haruki Murakamis novel with Issey Ogata and Rie Miyazaya as its cast members. Since then, Tony Takitani had been my long-awaited movie.
A year passed... Fortunately, I was offered to be a part of this movie as a narrator. I was honored to take part amidst that fantastic space where the lead actors exist with such natural breeze of air. Tony Takitani was my first film to work with Mr. Ichikawa. But I sincerely hope my narration has tuned in close to the intended wavelength scheme of the director, that gentle but very special passion of his, which he so artfully presents without the obvious.
So nowhere is a new star on the top of my favorite movie list