On October 30th, the 38th Tokyo International Film Festival, currently being held in Tokyo, screened a 4K remaster of director Mamoru Oshii's legendary OVA (original video animation) "Angel's Egg," released in 1985. Director Oshii, Mako Hyodo, the voice actress for the "girl," and anime critic Ryota Fujitsu appeared.
"Angel's Egg" is Director Oshii's first original work, an OVA with original concept and art direction by Yoshitaka Amano. It was produced in an ascetic style, with near-monotone colors, very few lines, unusually long takes, and only about 400 cuts, about one-third the number of cuts in a typical anime. It was released as an OVA in 1985 and was also screened in theaters for a limited time.
The film was not a commercial success. Director Oshii began by saying, "This was not my intention. I never dreamed that a work from 40 years ago would be released to the world like this. What would today's audiences think? I came here half-believing and half-doubting." He continued, "I'm amazed that I was able to make something like this. I'm impressed that I was able to make it, and I'm glad I did it. I couldn't do it now. I personally couldn't do it, and I don't think I could even plan it."
When the topic turned to the recording, Director Oshii recalled, "I only remember two lines. The line, 'Who are you?' That's the most important. I remember having them do it dozens of times. 'Who' is that, to whom is he saying it? Perhaps he was asking himself that question. This film has been described as existentialist, and they're not entirely wrong. I think it's a very difficult line."
Director Oshii also shared one other thing he remembers: "The morning after the egg is broken, the girl screams. I consulted with Shiba-san (Sound Director Shiba Shigeharu) and had (Hyodo-san) act it out. When he did it, I was frozen. It was amazing. It's a quiet film, but it's the only scene where emotions explode. Looking back, I'm glad we recorded it. It was wonderful." Hyodo revealed, "I was directed to that scene many times, and I really did cry. The sigh was real."
Finally, Hyodo said, "I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who supported us. I am extremely grateful," and Director Oshii shared his thoughts, "This film was made 40 years ago, so many of the staff have passed away. If they were still alive, I'm sure they would be happy about today. I thought it was over, but now people are able to watch it like this. It may be a common thought, but I am overwhelmed with emotion."
The 4K remaster will be produced in time for the film's 40th anniversary in 2025. Under the supervision of Director Oshii, the original 35mm film will be scanned and remastered in 4K using the latest technology. It will be released exclusively in Dolby Cinemas from November 14th, before being released nationwide from November 21st.
