In her directorial debut, “Blue Imagine,” actor-turned-director Urara Matsubayashi tackles the sensitive issue of sexual assault in conservative Japan. Drawing from her own experience as a survivor, Matsubayashi tells the story of a young actor finding refuge in a safe house called Blue Imagine after a violent assault. The film sheds light on the still-prevalent issue of predatory behavior within the Japanese entertainment industry and emphasizes the importance of women supporting each other in the aftermath of trauma.
Matsubayashi expressed the significance of addressing such issues, especially in a culture where speaking up about sexual assault is rare. She highlights the stigma surrounding victims and the need for women to help each other and stand together against predatory behavior. The film aims to validate characters’ reactions to trauma and contribute to breaking the silence around sexual violence.
While acknowledging the challenges of broaching this topic, Matsubayashi emphasizes the importance of portraying the camaraderie between women in the face of adversity. She notes the positive reactions to Shiori Ito’s documentary “Black Box Diaries,” which addresses sexual assault and legal challenges in Japan, and hopes that her film, “Blue Imagine,” can bring hope to others who may have experienced similar situations.
Reflecting on her personal journey in making the film, Matsubayashi admits to facing difficulties, including experiencing flashbacks and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. However, she sees the film as a way to replace her victimized self with the characters, offering hope not only for herself but for others who may have undergone similar experiences.
“Blue Imagine” adds to Matsubayashi’s filmography involving issues of sexual violence, following her roles in “The Hungry Lion” and her work in the anthology drama “Kamata Prelude.” The director hopes to make strides in her career, exploring new genres and themes beyond the realm of sexual assault.
As one of the few female directors in Japan, Matsubayashi acknowledges the gender bias in the industry. She believes that the lack of aspiring young female filmmakers is not solely a gender-related issue but also reflects a broader trend of declining interest in filmmaking among the younger generations in Japan. While acclaimed directors like Ryusuke Hamaguchi and Hirokazu Kore-eda have gained international recognition, Matsubayashi highlights the challenges faced by independent filmmakers in securing funding and opportunities for younger actors.
She emphasizes the need for a shared responsibility within the independent filmmaking industry and expresses a desire to create opportunities for younger talents. Matsubayashi concludes that the industry’s dynamics, akin to the #MeToo movement, involve internal conflicts that need addressing for collective progress.
