CHALLENGE

We were asked by the team at NUNA9  to create a film celebrating Fukuoka, Japan, for audiences across South Korea, China and Asia as part of a collaboration with Nishitetsu agency.

Japan, Korea and China share deep historical roots, but today can feel like very different worlds. together we explored those connections through a contemporary, fresh narrative all anchored in Fukuoka, Japan’s historic gateway to Asia. The film debued on the Tenjin One Vision super wide 16:3 , 11m x 2m massive screen in the heart of the city.

Our approach brought together traditional Japanese heritage with contemporary street culture, creating a vibrant visual world inspired by the city and its people.

PROCESS

During our first two weeks in Japan, we worked hand in hand with Carl and Julian from NUNA9 and two interns from Hong Kong.  We explored language, museums, festivals, live music, and sacred shrines to capture direct cultural observations and authentic experiences.

Building on this brilliant beginning and guided by NUNA9's creative insight, we returned home to London and brought the entire concept to life in just six weeks. To do this we blending our traditional animation 2D + 3D with the latest AI, and a lateral creative mindset.

We anchored the story in a single powerful idea: 縁 (En), the Japanese concept of fate, connection, and the enduring bonds between people. Though pronounced differently across Japan, China, and Korea, this shared character carries the exact same profound meaning across all three cultures.

We broke this core narrative down into three distinct visual layers, drawing inspiration from Fukuoka’s ancient Munakata goddesses revered for centuries as protectors of safe passage. Reimagined as three modern-day deities, they form the beating heart of the entire film:

• The Baseball Player (Land): Embodies local pride, community, and heritage, rooted in Fukuoka’s legacy as a major sports hub.

• The Skateboarder (Street): Represents urban youth culture, modern street art, and raw creative expression.

• The Surfer (Ocean): Captures Fukuoka’s coastal geography, freedom, and harmony with nature along Kyushu’s shores.

Together, these three goddesses write the strokes of 縁 (En) across the distinct landscapes of the city.

With a beautiful music score from Julian Munro and sound mastering from Klashboombang.

RESULT

A love letter to Fukuoka, shaped by the people, places, and experiences discovered along the way. Built to connect Fukuoka city with audiences far and wide, bringing joy and pride to the everyday.