The emotional weight of “The Final Blossom”, the debut anime feature by Baku Kinoshita, resonates deeply as it participates in this year’s Annecy Animation Festival. The film encapsulates a profound sense of melancholy, inviting viewers into a narrative filled with introspection and existential questions.

In Kinoshita’s poignant storytelling, we follow Minoru Akutsu, a former yakuza imprisoned for life, confined to the solitude of his cell. His only companion is a lively potted balsam flower, which serves as a whimsical yet profound element in this dark tale. Through their conversations, Akutsu shares the story of his life before incarceration, and the flower, animated with vibrant expressiveness, questions his choices, acting almost as a mirror reflecting his own conscience and regrets.

Variety had the opportunity to interview Kinoshita following the film’s screening at the festival, delving into the creative process behind crafting his first feature.

When “Odd Taxi” gained attention, many viewers noted similarities to the works of Martin Scorsese. What character-driven dramas inspired your approach for “The Final Blossom”?

Absolutely, Takeshi Kitano has been a substantial influence on my work. I admire how both Scorsese and Kitano construct their narratives, intertwining beauty with darker themes. In Kitano’s films, you can witness a stark contrast between serene visuals—a bright blue sky and lush greenery—against the backdrop of violence. This layering creates a sense of reality that resonates with audiences, reminding them that life’s complexity persists regardless of superficial appearances.

Your film conveys a deeply sorrowful narrative. What compelled you to tell this particular story?

I am fascinated by the theme of psychological liberation from personal constraints. This aspect is prevalent in both “Odd Taxi” and “The Final Blossom.” I had the chance to collaborate closely with the screenwriter, who shared this vision. While the protagonist’s background as a yakuza is significant, my focus was to delve deeper into his life, exploring his interactions with family, personal struggles, and the environment that shaped him.

The animation style is notably restrained, with much of the film embodying stillness, contrasted by the lively character of the balsam flower. What inspired this choice?

I envisioned the flower as a foil to Akutsu. It serves as a striking contrast to his character. While Akutsu remains silent and static, the flower is dynamic, humorous, and full of life. This deliberate juxtaposition highlights Akutsu’s traits, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the film. By making the flower vibrant and elastic, I aimed to emphasize the differences between their characters, enriching the narrative experience.

Reflecting on the film’s rhythm, you previously mentioned a balance of “stillness, movement, and stillness.” How did you approach creating this rhythm?

I believe rhythm is instinctual. Throughout the film, I intentionally place bursts of action between moments of stillness. This technique prevents monotony and engages the audience, making the viewing experience more dynamic. It’s a creative choice that I felt was essential for maintaining the film’s rhythm and keeping viewers invested.

Considering the transition from directing a series to a feature film, what major differences did you encounter?

A feature film is notably shorter, which allows for a more concentrated focus on each shot. This condensed format provides the opportunity to infuse greater energy and quality into every frame, making the process feel more meaningful and rewarding.

Was there a particular moment during the production of “The Final Blossom” that highlighted this realization for you?

Indeed, I meticulously reviewed every single frame of the film—from background art to character movements. This level of detail in my oversight was unprecedented for me, reflecting a different standard of quality and dedication in this project.

“The Final Blossom” stands out as a grounded and authentic piece of work. In the realm of animation, creating an understated drama can be particularly challenging. What are your thoughts on this?

I consider myself fortunate to have the opportunity to create an original animated work like this. My aspiration has always been to produce animation that breaks away from conventional themes prevalent in Japan. I felt that this project had the potential to resonate with audiences who seek something different and meaningful in animated storytelling.

Reflecting on the creative process, you previously mentioned drawing inspiration from 1980s anime in the tone of sequences set in the past. Can you elaborate on that?

For the background art, I intentionally used vibrant, primary colors, minimizing reliance on digital effects. I sought to evoke the aesthetic of classic films, drawing parallels with the bold color use seen in Lilo and Stitch, which influenced my artistic choices significantly.

Your approach appears to prioritize restraint and simplicity in your techniques. Was there a temptation to add more elements?

Indeed, striking a balance can be challenging. I strive to explore various creative avenues without overextending myself. My philosophy centers around making the most beautiful expression within my capabilities, focusing on quality rather than quantity.

However, I faced some pushback from the team regarding adjustments I made during production. For instance, as I refined Akutsu’s facial features, I found myself drawn to a more nuanced depiction, prompting me to revisit earlier drafts to ensure consistency with my evolving vision.

Given that this film revolves around themes deeply personal to you, what do you hope audiences will take away from it?

I aim to convey the message of liberation from internal struggles. In simpler terms, it’s about change, and I find value in personal transformation. For instance, if a typically shy boy at school manages to greet someone the next day, that represents change. This concept reflects the potential for profound richness in life, which is relevant to everyone, regardless of their circumstances.

Even the smallest changes matter.

No matter how minor the transformation may seem, I believe it is beautiful and worthwhile, contributing to the richness of life’s journey.