To Know the Ainu Is to Know Japan: An Interview with “Ainu Mosir” Director Fukunaga Takeshi

A scene from Ainu Mosir. (© Ainu Mosir LLC/Booster Project)

Residents of Lake Akan Ainu Kotan appear in the film. (© Ainu Mosir LLC/Booster Project)

At parent-teacher interview, Kanto first reveals to his mother Emi that he wants to leave the village. (© Ainu Mosir LLC/Booster Project)

Debo (Akibe Debo), friend of Kanto’s deceased father, is a spiritual pillar in the village, with deep reverence for Ainu traditions. (© Ainu Mosir LLC/Booster Project)

Director Fukunaga Takeshi.

The band in the film is that of Shimokura Kanto, who plays Kanto. Music has an important role in the story. (© Ainu Mosir LLC/Booster Project)

Junior high school students of the Ainu kotan. Contact with traditional ceremonies takes various forms. (© Ainu Mosir LLC/Booster Project)

Why is Debo secretly raising a bear cub? The tale delves into the heart of Ainu spiritual culture. (© Ainu Mosir LLC/Booster Project)

With no acting experience, Shimokura Kanto produces natural facial expressions that are unforgettable. (© Ainu Mosir LLC/Booster Project)