#Japan #Morioka #Funky Forest #Katsuhiro Ishii #Aniki

Exciting News: Funky Forest Returns for a Sequel

After two decades since its original release, fans of the cult classic Funky Forest: The First Contact can finally rejoice - a sequel is in the works! The production of Funky Forest: The Second Contact has been formally announced, led by the original creators: directors Katsuhiro Ishii, Shunichiro Miki, and Aniki. This exciting new film is set to begin shooting in Morioka, Iwate Prefecture, from this year through the next.

Celebrating Two Decades of Fun

This announcement came during the 29th Fantasia International Film Festival in Montreal, where a special screening was held to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Funky Forest: The First Contact. The event drew an audience of 700 people, filling a large cinema and reigniting nostalgia for the beloved film that first premiered at the Hawaii International Film Festival in 2005.

The Fantasia International Film Festival has always been a launchpad for unique cinematic ventures, and this year was no different. Alongside the celebrations, the Second Contact project was selected for the Frontier International Co-Production Market, putting it in the spotlight among over 200 entries, making it one of only 21 official selections.

Unique Creative Vision

Directors Ishii, Miki, and Aniki have shared their enthusiasm for returning to the world of Funky Forest. Ishii expressed that the film explores the interplay between the mundane and extraordinary, all while blending elements of reality, science fiction, and the yakuza genre to deliver humor and heartfelt moments. His motivation comes from producer Adam Trelle, who encouraged a follow-up, emphasizing a desire to reach audiences with warmth and laughter stemming from unique characters and splendid natural settings of Tohoku.

Shunichiro Miki remarked on the peculiar nature of crafting a sequel for a relatively obscure cult film, emphasizing his commitment to bringing of two decades' worth of life experiences into this new cinematic journey.

Aniki, the third director, adds depth to the film's narrative. He stated, "The line between reality and the surreal is often blurred. Morioka, with its rich folklore and culture, will serve as the perfect backdrop. Themes like traditional Japanese festivals and the whimsical kappa creatures will play pivotal roles in the story. I hope audiences experience the enchanting essence of Tohoku through the eyes of the young protagonist."

A Global Culture Connection

Producer Adam Trelle highlighted his admiration for both the film and Morioka, expressing a wish to spotlight the interesting and unique aspects of Japanese culture to a global audience. He emphasized that while Funky Forest might not have received accolades in Japan, it holds significant popularity abroad, particularly within diverse cultural circles.

The film's goals extend beyond mere entertainment; they intend to connect communities and showcase Morioka as a vibrant and exciting place full of rich stories and characters.

What to Expect

The sequel promises to continue the offbeat journey that captivated fans in the first film by introducing new characters and narratives while preserving the original's quirky charm. Viewers can expect a vibrant visual representation of Morioka's landscapes, alongside new adventures, humor, and cultural explorations.

Funky Forest: The First Contact is an omnibus film composed of 21 episodes, initially establishing itself as a groundbreaking multi-narrative experience. It features a cast of talented actors such as Tadanobu Asano and Shinko Ikewaki, positioning the film as a focal point of Japan's cinematic creativity.

As production gears up, fans and newcomers alike eagerly await how Funky Forest: The Second Contact will expand the imaginative world that has become a symbol of avant-garde Japanese cinema.

Stay tuned for updates as the creative team continues to share their journey toward bringing this captivating sequel to life. For inquiries about the film or its production, please contact Movie Act Project (MAP Inc.) via phone or email.