Timo Otsuki hosted the Fabulous Four 2018 film screening yesterday and, tonight, we’ll discover which director wins a Commendation at the Lotus Awards. We caught up with Timo and heard why he thinks we've entered a great moment for film-makers.

 
Congratulations on opening your new company, Connection! How do you see yourself transforming production through this new studio?
 
The Japanese industry is very unique in that they select the production company first, not the director. I'd like to transform the workflow and, while I know this is not something always possible in the industry, I'm confident I can prove the method works. Our company, Connection, can assist in determining the ideal director, production team, and post production team. This will help communication, budget, and result in a higher quality production.

 
How do you think Fabulous Four benefits young directors?
 
It's a great opportunity for young directors. The situation really challenges them: Having to come up with a script, determine budget, deal with a tight schedule, and recruit the right team to help within these constraints. Fabulous Four gives them an opportunity to put something on the reel as well as a platform for recognition. In turn, these directors are often showcased internationally and given opportunities from reputable agencies. There's really nothing else like it in the world.

 
What did you think of this year’s films?
 
I came to ADFEST for the first time 14 years ago. The quality of this program has really improved. Back then, the process was far more difficult and time consuming. Now with the development of technology and ease of access to filmography, directors can more easily study and conceive their ideas. I thought the films this year were very well done. In the past there has usually been one film that really stood apart but, this year, all four were definitely impressive films.

 
Any advice for new producers or filmmakers coming into the industry?
 
Meet a lot of people — producers and directors alike. Talk to them and learn more about their process. ADFEST is great for this. You have the opportunity to network and discuss with others in the same industry, which is very difficult to do in Japan. Opportunities like ADFEST are very uncommon in the industry for our region.

 
- Kyle Towb