If you want to know what Scot Eaton and I have been doing the past week, take a look at the Biola Film Japan 2009 Blog.
A few facts about our film:
1. The script, by a young Japanese writer, was conceived in Japanese, written in English and then “back translated” into Japanese (almost all the dialogue is in Japanese).
2. We usually have about 22 people (cast and crew) on the set and we all spent a number of hours crammed into a one bedroom apartment (in Niiza) shooting scenes for this film.
3. Yugo Saso, the main character has appeared in several films including “To End All Wars.” Jack Hafer, who is now the chair of Biola’s film department, was a producer for “To End All Wars.” Masayuki Yui, who appeared in four films directed by Akira Kurosawa plays the role of an “old man” in “Bicycle.”
4. We are using two bicycles to make this film. One is intact and the other one has been broken down into small pieces. Casey, the prop guy, has told me that we may or may not be able to get it back together again.
5. The production budget is $3,000. But, that doesn’t include many donated items, including a steadycam rig, lenses, and the use of a good camera and other equipment that belongs to the Biola film department. It also does not include the cost of International travel and housing for the group of 15 from Biola and other expenses on the Japan side. I think the “actual” budget is close to $50,000.
The cast and crew have been fantastic! Biola sent a wonderful group of people over here to work with us. Making this film has been a huge challenge, full of crazy moments (explaining that will require another post) and I am VERY tired out right now but that is OK. It is a profound privilege and honor to be a part of this project, one of the best experiences of my life.
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