Experiencing Interruptions?

ECHOES

The Third World War has left Earth’s resources depleted, pushing humanity to the brink of extinction. Learning from the repeated mistakes of history, humanity turns to the advanced decision-making capabilities of AI to find a path forward. The solution proposed by the AI is an ambitious plan: transporting energy from outer space back to Earth.

A team chosen for the mission embarks on a journey to Mars, tasked with securing humanity's future. However, along the way, they begin to confront unexpected aspects of the plan—revelations that challenge their understanding of their mission. Is this truly a path to survival, or does it lead to a new and unforeseen truth?

As they fulfill their mission and set their sights on returning to Earth, one question remains: will the Earth they return to still be intact—or has everything already changed?

  • Yusuke Nakamae
    Director
  • Yusuke Nakamae
    Producer
  • Project Type:
    Animation, Short
  • Genres:
    Sci-Fi, Movie, Short
  • Runtime:
    8 minutes 10 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    December 24, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    2,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Japan
  • Country of Filming:
    Japan
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital,HD
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Veneto International Film Festival
    Veneto
    Italy
    NOMINEE
  • Top Indie Film Awards
    Tokyo
    Japan
    Best Original Idea
  • AI International Film Festival
    Los Angeles
    United States
    Honorable Mention
  • Barcelona Indie Filmmakers Festival • BARCIFF
    Barcelona
    Oficial Selection
  • 4th Dimension Independent Film Festival
    Jalan
    Indonesia
    Oficial Selection
Director Biography - Yusuke Nakamae

Yusuke Nakamae was born in Tokyo, Japan, in 1986. From a young age, he demonstrated a keen interest in art and technology, which led him to study design and visual expression at Musashino Art University. Even during his university years, he explored the fusion of new media and creativity, gaining recognition for his innovative approach.

After graduation, Yusuke began his career in the gaming industry, where he contributed to several commercially successful projects while deepening his expertise in user experience (UX) design. Currently, he serves as the UX Design Director at Hulu Japan, overseeing the visual and experiential design of the platform, which redefines the act of "watching" for millions of users.

Throughout his career, Yusuke's work has been celebrated not only for its commercial success but also for its cultural significance. His achievements include recognition from the Japan Media Arts Festival, where his fusion of design and storytelling earned high acclaim. These experiences have fueled his passion for visual storytelling within digital media, making his transition into filmmaking a natural progression.

This debut film represents a bold endeavor to translate his design theories and practical expertise into the realm of cinema. By addressing themes of humanity, technology, and the future, he aims to deliver a fresh visual experience that challenges and inspires audiences.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

In an era where advancements in AI challenge the essence of creativity, we are compelled to confront fundamental questions: "What does it mean to be human?" and "What is the value of creation?" This film was born out of my personal engagement with these questions and my growing desire, as a designer working with movie streaming platforms, to create the very films I help showcase.

The central theme of this work is to pose questions about our future and the essence of humanity. The entire production was a solo effort, utilizing 3D technology and AI-generated voices for casting. This approach is a deliberate extension of the film's message, mirroring its exploration of the interplay between technology and human identity. By crafting a narrative that echoes its own methods, the film serves as an antithesis to the questions it raises.

I believe in the power of cinema to move emotions, provoke thought, and leave a lasting impression. My hope is that this work will invite audiences to explore its multi-dimensional interpretations and reflect on their own values and perspectives.

Looking ahead, I aspire to further explore the potential of cinema as a medium of profound expression. Through film, I aim to create works that foster dialogue, evoke emotions, and challenge perceptions, continuously pushing the boundaries of what it means to "see" and experience the world.