#Japan #Branding #Akasaka #THINK by BRANDED #Takuma Takasaki

A Deep Dive into the FINAL THINK by BRANDED Session

On June 1, 2026, the final installment of the acclaimed THINK by BRANDED seminar series will take place at the Akasaka Intercity Conference Center. This series, which is endorsed by the U.S. Academy Awards and known as Asia's largest international short film festival, aims to provide practical insights into creating branded films. The fifth and final session will feature the illustrious Takuma Takasaki, co-screenwriter and producer of the international film 'PERFECT DAYS', known for his impactful contributions to numerous corporate campaigns as a creative director.

The theme for this final session poses an essential question for businesses: "How do you want to be perceived?" Participants will engage in a highly practical workshop designed to transform their company's challenges into compelling narratives. This will not only allow them to gain invaluable insights from a leading global creator but also to update their brand strategies effectively.

In its inception, the THINK by BRANDED series was launched with a preview session hosted by prominent figures such as Kusuyama Hase and Tetsuya Bessho, who introduced the concept and vision behind the initiative. Over the course of the series, several industry leaders have shared their expertise:

• - Session 1 featured Kentaro Kimura, Executive Officer and Chief Creative Officer at Hakuhodo Kettle, who discussed creative storytelling at the intersection of advertising and film.
• - Session 2 explored the 'seeds of storytelling' within corporate brands, highlighted by a compelling case study from Toray, which recently won the 2024 Branded Shorts of the Year award.
• - Session 3 involved Kaito Manabe, who has collaborated with various corporations on branded films, discussing how brands can weave meaningful stories into their messaging beyond merely advertising.
• - Session 4 included Yui Otsuki and Taiki Nito from FinT, discussing strategies for maximizing the impact of branded films in the age of social media, emphasizing the need for effective communication design.

Takuma Takasaki, a prominent figure in the Japanese creative landscape, was born in Fukuoka Prefecture in 1969. After graduating from Waseda University, he joined Dentsu. He established his own firm, WRITING & DESIGN, in 2025. Takasaki has received numerous accolades, including his third 'Creator of the Year' award in 2024. His direct involvement with 'PERFECT DAYS' has also garnered international recognition, including an Academy Award nomination. His published works range from novels exploring youth to technical guides on advertising skills and children's books.

The significance of this seminar series cannot be overstated. It serves as a conduit for companies to rediscover their cultural values and beliefs, fostering a collaborative environment for growth and creativity. The awareness around branded storytelling has surged, with brands recognizing the importance of crafting narratives that resonate with audiences, blending entertainment and corporate messaging seamlessly.

The upcoming session will push participants to think critically about their brand's identity, aligning their visual and thematic elements with the expectations and perceptions of their target audience. By the end of the workshop, attendees will walk away with actionable strategies that can be implemented immediately.

In relation to this, the BRANDED SHORTS initiative has been pivotal in creating a platform for showcasing branded films, with the 2026 edition expected to redefine business narratives via visual storytelling. Entries from around the globe will be invited, and events will be conducted to further invigorate the video advertising market.

As we anticipate this conclusive seminar, we invite marketing professionals to sign up and partake in what promises to be a transformative experience. For registration, please visit this link. Don't miss your chance to elevate your brand strategy through expert insights and practical applications in storytelling.

About THINK by BRANDED

This series is designed to enrich understanding and capabilities in creating impactful branded films, fostering innovative thought processes in marketing and communication strategies. With expert guidance and participatory workshops, it aims to enhance the storytelling skills crucial for modern branding initiatives, making it an essential gathering for forward-thinking marketers.