Kurokawa Yuichi, 29
Textbook Writer/Filmmaker from Kumamoto
Yuichi is very passionate. In nearly perfect English he enjoys discussing politics or philosophy. He teaches a not-for-profit English class using scenes from movies. See http://members.aol.com/Deneieigo/home.htm
Could you describe a typical workday?
I get up when I want because I don’t have a company. That’s important. No stress. I work all morning, practice karate for two hours in the afternoon, and often work until 3 or 4am. My work is my hobby; I have time because I don’t watch tv.
Could you describe the texts you’ve published?
I’m not impressed by what’s out there now. They’re weak. I try to add meaning and make them easier to learn. Someday, I want to start my own school.Could you describe your film projects?
First of all, I’m completely anti-Hollywood. Sure, they have great special effects, but the content is weak. I don’t want to make films just for the hell of it, just for entertainment. For example, my first film was called Intersections. It is actually five short stories put together. If the audience is paying attention, they can find connections between the stories. The film experience is actually in your mind--you feel and think about it. You create the movie in your mind.
Last year at a film festival in Texas, when my film ended, nobody understood it at first. But while I was answering questions, one woman understood and explained. Then everyone started clapping--it was very encouraging. I want to make something unique, something that people will remember, like when the German philosopher said, “God is dead.” I’d like to see my words stay alive like that after I’m dead.
I think a lot about improvements to technology. Most people think technology is great, but I don’t. It’s actually making the world crueler. It’s as if humans are just a number, or a dot on the internet.
I’m also interested in the mind. Nobody knows for sure about the mind. It is the last thing that scientists have to learn about. Film is a good way to explore these different issues. Like using mirrors--how can I get the idea that a reflection is me? Animals (except some monkeys) don’t recognize a reflection as themselves. Maybe we are wrong and all the animals are right! I don’t know how to say that with film, but I’m looking forward to trying. I also do documentaries. I’m doing one now about a Shinto priest who had many journals. He seemed crazy, but was actually a great man.Do you make enough money?
I don’t care much about money. This year I’ve made about ¥5,600,000--most from one textbook about email English. It has sold over 20,000 copies.the end
This interview was originally published in Kansai Time Out magazine.