, how did that relationship first come about? How much of a supporter has he been in getting your films released internationally?I met Jeremy Thomas in Venice for the first time. The film festival officials told me, “Jeremy Thomas wants to meet you and talk to you.” I replied, “Eh? Jeremy… that Jeremy? Why does he want to meet me?”
I asked Jeremy frankly. His answer was lovely. He gently touched his nose and said, “It’s a sense of smell. That’s what a producer needs.” How cool he is! Since then, we have received various support from Jeremy.Your films have been noted for their graphic content – has your approach to cinematic violence changed over the years?To be precise, I am not a violent director but there are many violent characters in my movies. Instead of using them to make violent movies, they are using me.
Of course. For our generation, Hollywood movies are a longing, even as an audience member. But to be honest, I want to take a full swing at making a movie in Hollywood once in my lifetime. If I have an opportunity, I would like to enjoy it with all my best.Streaming is having such an impact on the industry – how much is that being felt in Japan? Does working with them interest you?Japan is definitely affected. It is a big wave that we have never experienced before.
As an individual, I originally directed video works so it has just shifted from the shelves in the video shop to the ones on the internet. In other words, it has only shifted from analogue to digital. As a director, I am always ready to rush anywhere at any time if I receive offers.High-end, big budget television is a boom industry at the moment – are you interested in doing more work on the small screen?Of course, I’m interested in the production system, which I have never experienced.