International premiere
Dozens of Norths
"Dozens of Norths" is the much-anticipated first feature-length film by acclaimed animator Koji Yamamura who is known for his numerous short-form works such as the Oscar-nominated “Mt. Head” (2002). His bleak, existential, yet, darkly humorous worldview is presented in its uncompromised glory through his signature hand-drawn animations accompanied by concrete sound design and music by Willem Breuker (1944-2010).
The rich, dialogue-less vignettes depicting desolate and nightmarish landscapes that compose the film also appear nostalgic and endearing under Yamamura's magic. The basis of the film is a series of illustrations and texts that Yamamura had created in the aftermath of the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011—a catastrophe that had deeply affected him. The film elevates modern-day suffering caused by real-life events into a mythical and universal dimension and the absurdities and tragedies of human existence are told with injections of hope.
Like the screen in a dark theater, the film finds light even in the darkest of spaces.
Aiko Masubuchi
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Yamamura Koji (snd 1964) tegi algselt lastefilme. Tema film „Mt Head“ (2002) oli nomineeritud parima animalühifilmi Oscarile, see võitis 6 väärikat auhinda ning valiti sajandi 100 parima animafilmi hulka. „Franz Kafka’s A Country Doctor" (2007) võitis samuti 6 suurt auhinda, kokku on Yamamura filmid võitnud üle 100 auhinna. 2021. aastal valiti ta viimase 25 aasta parima lühianimafilmi režissööri hulgas teisele kohale. Koji pälvis 2019. aastal Lilla lindi medali. Ta kuulub Mängufilmide kunsti ja teaduste akadeemiasse, on Jaapani Animatsiooniühingu asepresident ja kuulub ka AS IFA juhatusse.
Best Film Award, grant of 5000 euros from National Geographic