ECHOES, 8min., Japan
Directed by Yusuke Nakamae
The Third World War has left Earth’s resources depleted, pushing humanity to the brink of extinction. Learning from the repeated mistakes of history, humanity turns to the advanced decision-making capabilities of AI to find a path forward. The solution proposed by the AI is an ambitious plan: transporting energy from outer space back to Earth.

https://www.instagram.com/yusuke.nakamae

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
The release of ChatGPT in 2022 really sparked something in me.
As a UX designer at Hulu Japan, I've always been close to technology and digital experiences—but that moment made me seriously reflect on what creativity means in an age where AI can generate content.
That question became the seed of ECHOES.
The sci-fi setting naturally came from my own personal taste and the kinds of stories I love to watch and tell.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
It took about 7 months from concept to completion.
Since I created this film as a solo project—writing, directing, editing, and designing everything myself—it was a very intense process, but it allowed me to shape the story exactly the way I envisioned it.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Technological Fall.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
One of the biggest challenges was working with 3D design and visual effects.
While I wasn't starting completely from zero, my skills at the time were limited and far from professional.
Since I was handling every aspect of the film myself, I had to significantly improve those abilities throughout the process.
Of course, I'm still learning, and in many ways, my technical limitations became part of the film's visual language—both as a constraint and a characteristic.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I was deeply moved and surprised by how many people picked up on the symbolism and emotional undertones.
Seeing that the themes I care about resonated across borders and cultures was incredibly rewarding.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
Working as a UX designer at Hulu Japan, I've always been surrounded by films and storytelling.
Being immersed in that environment made me fall in love with the language of cinema—not just as entertainment, but as a form of emotional and philosophical expression.
That daily exposure eventually sparked my desire to tell stories of my own.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Interstellar.
Its emotional depth, scientific imagination, and powerful visual storytelling left a lasting impression on me.
It reminds me that great science fiction can be both intellectually profound and deeply human.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
What you've done—offering audience feedback and promoting filmmakers beyond just screenings—is fantastic.
More festivals could follow this example by offering mentorship, distribution advice, or networking spaces with industry professionals.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experience been working on the festival platform site?
It's been smooth and efficient.
FilmFreeway is a great way to discover supportive and passionate festivals like yours.

10. What is your favorite meal?
Sushi—elegant, precise, and quietly powerful. Much like the kind of film I strive to create.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
Yes. I'm developing a new sci-fi short that continues to question how humans interact with the technologies we create.
This time, I want to explore the idea of legacy and what we choose to leave behind.