Throughout her career Director Anna J. Takayama has strived to explore the untold stories of those society looks away from. Often told with a personal and close-to-the-heart focus, Takayama’s stories peel back the curtain on those who are underrepresented on screen. In The Voice Actress, her latest short, this focus is centred on Japan’s anime industry and the life of Kingyo, a veteran voice actress. Takayama employs a striking backdrop and uplifting story to display the struggles of those working in this ever-changing industry, revealing how a creative imagination, a good heart and a pet goldfish can oppose those in higher power. Dn delves into the SXSW Special Jury Award-winning short in our interview with Takayama, who reveals more about the familial ties that inspired the film, her colour-based creative choices, and the conflicted opinions she has on the industry she’s now within.
First and foremost, could...
First and foremost, could...
- 3/11/2024
- by Josh Block
- Directors Notes
"Undefeated by the rain... Undefeated by the wind... Undefeated by the snow and the scorching summer heat." Oh my this is such a wonderful short film - one of the best this year so far. The Voice Actress is an entrancing 15-minute short film made by Japanese-American filmmaker Anna J. Takayama. It's a tribute to her mom, who was also a voice actress in Japan. After first premiering at festivals last year and picking up some awards - the short is now available online for everyone. It's a must watch! The fictional film follows a woman named Kingyo, played by Urara Takano (who's also a real voice actress in Japan for many anime characters), who possesses an ability to see the soul in all things. But the voice acting world is changing and she must find a way to reconcile her way of living with the modern industry. It's a beautifully shot,...
- 2/9/2023
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
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