“Happyend,” interview with Director Neo Sora

Neo Sora: Friendship as the central theme in “Happyend”

In this interview, Neo Sora, the director of “Happyend“, Orizzonti section, takes us through the emotional and thematic heart of his film, which explores the transformative moments between two best friends, Yuta and Kou, as they navigate the complexities of adolescence in a near-future Tokyo. The film unfolds against the backdrop of impending chaos triggered by a prank that leads to the installation of a surveillance system in their school.

The ambiguity of friendship

Sora emphasizes that friendship is central to the film’s narrative, describing it as an ambiguous and evolving relationship. “To me, friendship is one of the most important aspects of life. My friendships during high school and university shaped who I am today, and I owe everything to my friends,” he explains. However, the director acknowledges that, unlike other relationships, such as those with family or partners, friendship lacks explicit rules, leading to unpredictable dynamics. “This ambiguity can lead to misunderstandings, even among those who care deeply for one another,” Sora reflects.

Tension between friendship and social pressures

The film portrays the tension that arises when Kou becomes frustrated with the oppressive environment created by the school’s new surveillance system, while Yuta remains largely unaware of the surrounding sociopolitical realities. “This contrast between their responses to the situation highlights the different paths that young people may take when confronted with social pressures,” Sora notes. Kou’s political awareness begins to develop after meeting a passionate student activist, leading the film to explore the emotional weight of their long-standing friendship and forcing them to confront differences they had never expressed before.

Rebellion and cinematic influences

During the interview, Sora draws parallels between his film and classic works centered on youth rebellion. He cites Rebel Without a Cause and the Taiwanese New Wave as key influences: “The characters in my film are rebels in their own right, albeit not in the traditional sense. Their rebellion manifests differently, depending on how society pressures them.” Sora‘s ability to channel the energy of these foundational films, while adding humor and contemporary relevance, enriches the exploration of youth culture in the film.

From a cinematic perspective, “Happyend” employs striking visual storytelling that amplifies the emotional arcs of the characters. Sora discusses the importance of lighting and practical effects, especially in crucial scenes that illustrate the state of their friendship. “The dangling light represents the instability of Yuta and Kou’s relationship,” he explains. The film captures moments of tension and uncertainty, marking shifts in their friendship, similar to the looming threat of an earthquake—a physical representation of their emotional turmoil.

The director reflects on the collaborative process with director of photography Billy Kirstein, noting that their long history of working together significantly influenced the film’s visual style. “Billy and I know each other very well, and we share many cinematic influences. It was crucial to create a world that felt deeply personal and intricate while also maintaining the broader social commentary of the film,” Sora a