2nd May, Chawotsukuru

The scenes of the tea-making process, which he says he rarely films, are not only unusual as a record, but also have a rhythm that makes you feel as if you are working alongside the tea master, and you are drawn into the process. The film fully reflects the director's intention of "capturing the coolness of people working silently". The story is a simple one, but the care with which the scenes of tea picking, tea making and workrooms are filmed creates a refreshing atmosphere that is unique to this film. In particular, the theme and subject matter are fused together in a scene in which the "moment of sublimation", which occurs when the body is continuously focused on one thing and the mind is emptied, is superimposed on the scenery outside the window where the protagonist looks out.

Directed by Kojima Koichi, 2nd May, Chawotsukuru leans on a strong ensemble — Hidetomo Yoshida, Minoru Matsuoka, Masahiro Globono — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 1998.