Director Tomohiko Ito Discusses the Making of 'The Watchman of the Green Tree'

An interview with director Tomohiko Ito, who helmed the animated film adaptation of Keigo Higashino's novel 'The Watchman of the Green Tree,' has been released. The interview covers the inspiration behind the film, the adaptation process, and behind-the-scenes stories about the art and character creation, increasing interest in the movie.

Released on the 18th, 'The Watchman of the Green Tree' is a fantasy animation that tells the story of a watchman chasing the secrets of a tree with hidden powers and the midnight visitors who seek it out. It is the first of Higashino's globally bestselling novels to be adapted into an animated film.

Director Tomohiko Ito, who has worked with Mamoru Hosoda of 'The Girl Who Leapt Through Time' and Tetsuro Araki of 'Attack on Titan,' utilized his experience in directing various genres such as thriller, sci-fi, and fantasy action in works like 'Sword Art Online,' 'Erased,' and 'HELLO WORLD' to bring 'The Watchman of the Green Tree' to life.

Why was the COVID-19 pandemic a catalyst for production?

Director Ito reflected on the COVID-19 pandemic as a pivotal moment for adapting Higashino's novel into an animated film. He stated, "The project began during the pandemic. When a famous comedian in Japan passed away, it was reported that even his relatives couldn't be by his side. I thought if the green tree from the film existed, it might have been able to convey his last words. This idea of a modern yet universal story motivated me to proceed with the production." He added, "The people who come to the green tree with wishes have very realistic desires. They are our representatives," highlighting relatable elements for the audience.

What was the focus when adapting the novel into a film?

Regarding the adaptation process, Ito emphasized, "We aimed to concentrate the story on the protagonists, Reito and Chifune. In the original novel, someone else discusses the mystery of the green tree, but in the film, we changed it so that Reito tells the story, increasing the main characters' active scenes."

He also discussed the creation of the film's central setting, the shrine with the green tree. "We thoroughly explored the shrines in Akiruno City, Tokyo, as envisioned by Higashino, combining plausible elements. The 'wish-granting green tree' in Atami, visited by art director Hiroshi Takiguchi, likely served as inspiration," Ito explained.

What are the stories behind the voice acting and character creation?

The director revealed unique methods used during the voice recording process. "Since live-action actors were doing the voice acting, we tried to record in a way that felt as natural as possible," he said. "We had them engage in real arguments or run in the recording booth." He expressed gratitude for the dedicated performances of actors like Fumiya Takahashi as Reito, Yuki Amami as Chifune, and Asuka Saito as Yumi.

In terms of art and atmosphere, Ito highlighted the contrast between the city and the area around the green tree. "I requested that the city feel cold, while the area around the green tree should feel warm and sacred," he noted.

The creation of the cute owl character in the film was also shared. "To naturally facilitate the protagonist's monologues, we decided to include a mascot character that could interact with him," Ito explained. The owl's name, 'Shiromi,' was inspired by Yukiko Horiguchi's pen name, known for works like 'K-On!'.

Finally, Ito sent a message to Korean audiences, expressing his hope that fans of Keigo Higashino, who is popular in Korea, would come to the theaters. "Even those who aren't fans should come with their families to enjoy the film," he encouraged.

'The Watchman of the Green Tree' is currently showing in theaters nationwide.

Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr