FUMIYA NAKAGAWA
Born in Kumamoto, Japan, in 1991. While working as a systems engineer, he realized the power of visual storytelling after revisiting a video letter he had made for his grandfather following his passing. Inspired by that experience, he became a filmmaker in 2019. Writing, directing, shooting, and editing his own work, he seeks to create st
Born in Kumamoto, Japan, in 1991. While working as a systems engineer, he realized the power of visual storytelling after revisiting a video letter he had made for his grandfather following his passing. Inspired by that experience, he became a filmmaker in 2019. Writing, directing, shooting, and editing his own work, he seeks to create stories that become turning points in people’s lives, uncovering untold narratives hidden within individuals, businesses, and communities. Believing that how a story is delivered is as important as the story itself, he continues to craft deeply resonant works from his base in Kumamoto, connecting local voices with audiences around the world.
director's message
director's message
Itadakimasu may be a phrase we Japanese people say even more often than “thank you.” It has a way of expressing feelings we cannot quite put into words, our gratitude, our awkwardness, and the emotions we struggle to convey. That is the power of this simple phrase.
In this film, I chose not to explain too much. At its center is a single ge
Itadakimasu may be a phrase we Japanese people say even more often than “thank you.” It has a way of expressing feelings we cannot quite put into words, our gratitude, our awkwardness, and the emotions we struggle to convey. That is the power of this simple phrase.
In this film, I chose not to explain too much. At its center is a single gesture shared between a parent and child who have drifted apart. I believe that within their expressions and silence lies a truth that words would only diminish. The custom of placing our hands together before a meal quietly reminds us that we are not alone. If this story can travel across the ocean and, here in Arizona, inspire someone to think of a loved one who matters to them, then perhaps it can change the world, if only a little. It is a great honor to share this story, created by a small team in Kumamoto, with you here, together with our producer, Yamachiku.