download notes - film press plus - richard lormand

I N T E R V I E W
HIKAWA EXPLORES THE MATSUMOTO UNIVERSE TO FIND OUT EXACTLY WHY HIS
CREATIONS HAVE SUCH APPEAL.
THE INDUSTRY-CHANGING WORKS
OF LEIJI MATSUMOTO
I believe that Mr. Matsumoto’s anime works from the
mid-70s to the early 80s, such as Space Pirate
Captain Harlock and Galaxy Express 999, changed
the course of the industry. The characters, concepts,
and artwork were all unique, and it was proven
possible to animate mechanical components with
depth and complexity. I felt a clear “evolution
of anime” during that time, like the growth of a boy
into early adulthood.
Mr. Matsumoto’s works are filled with an artistic
aesthetic that is backed by an intensive knowledge
of the classics and the military. At the root of many
of his stories are classical inspirations such
as Wagner operas, medieval chivalry, Japanese
legend, or accounts from the Pacific War that are
then flipped around to create new futuristic worlds.
The source of his talent seems to house two minds—
that of a child and that of an adult. That is why his
works do not lose their luster over the decades, and
we are moved by the simultaneous experience of the
past and the future together as one.
THE REASON BEHIND CAPTAIN
HARLOCK’S SUCCESS
First off, the titular character is unbelievably
striking. His scar and eye patch, coupled with his
skull-adorned clothes and cape are impossible
to forget. Of course his resolute nature of living
out his resolve is also appealing. His charisma is
unique, and the few words he does say sink into
your heart immediately, his unwavering stance in
life never failing to steal the stage. In particular,
the scene where he rescues the hero Tetsuro in
the film version of Galaxy Express 999 made a
lasting impression of his gallantry and strength.
He captured the imagination of every young boy,
making them aspire to be like him when they grew up.
WHEN IS HARLOCK MOST NEEDED?
Harlock appears in order to guide us when times get
tough and we reach a wall. I believe that we are now
on the verge of such times. Mr. Matsumoto’s works
always question how a man should live, particularly
what he chooses to do when he encounters some
form of defeat or hardship. The new Captain Harlock
film is no exception, with men overcoming despair to
stride forward. I was impressed with the marriage
of the classical themes of chivalry and bravery with
the unique beauty of the powerful visuals to create a
work that expertly depicts the Matsumoto universe.
HARLOCK FROM THE EYES OF A FAN
Mr. Matsumoto’s works depict the contrast between
ideals and actuality. When one encounters the
cold wall of reality and despairs at one’s own
uselessness, Harlock is the one with the tenacity
and resolve to reach out from the side of idealism
and pull reality up to where he stands. However, he
merely lends a hand and does not take over the duty.
He has the sternness to ask that one do the deed on
one’s own, with resolve. That is why even though the
story may end, that resolve remains in each person’s
heart. Perhaps that is why he transcends boundaries
between other works and comfortably fits into other
stories in the Matsumoto universe.
RYUSUKE HIKAWA
Born in 1958. An anime researcher whose writing focuses on visual
technique and creativity. Active in many circles, Hikawa serves as a judge
for the Japan Media Arts Festival as well as for the Mainichi Film Awards.
©Leiji Matsumoto/Toei Animation