When asked about his perspective on “life and death, fate and love,” he emphasised the significance of these motifs in his works. However, rather than spiraling into infinite contemplation, he chooses to create honest and heartfelt works based on his sincere observations and personal experiences.

Director’s latest film Kyrie features elements of street music and busking culture. This is also a reunion between him and composer Takeshi Kobayashi, 22 years since their last collaboration in All About Lily Chou-Chou. As for the casting of the leading actress, it was a serendipitous encounter. Director Iwai stumbled upon a video of singer AiNA The END online and was deeply amazed. Before that, the director was already interested in the topic of street music, so he wrote a story and invited AiNA to play the main character.

Beyond his reputation as a distinguished director and screenwriter, Shunji Iwai has also ventured into film music composing, editing, and producing. When imparting advice to film students, he emphasised the importance of experimentation and exploration, highlighting that there is no single method that suits everyone. He also shared his fondness for late-night recording sessions with his assistant, indulging in the ambient sound captured on the street with his iPhone. He jested that the first task for passionate young filmmakers joining his team would be making audio recordings on street.