Experiencing Interruptions?

Heart-Ware

In the year 20XX, where AI has replaced many human jobs, Sanada, a once-renowned game director, is the last human employee at his company. To save the company from bankruptcy, he collaborates with an overconfident AI to create an innovative game but struggles with a creative block. When his niece Yui, who feels isolated at school, visits, her story reignites his creativity. This encounter leads to a groundbreaking game, merging human emotion with AI precision and revitalizing his career.

  • Jii Zhang
    Director
    SYNCHRO
  • Jii Zhang
    Writer
    SYNCHRO
  • Jii Zhang
    Producer
    SYNCHRO
  • Reiji Kurosawa
    Key Cast
    "Keisuke Sanada"
  • Haruna Kubo
    Music Composer
    METAL GEAR SURVIVE ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK , Umamusume Pretty Derby Series
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Sci-Fi, Comedy, Drama
  • Runtime:
    32 minutes 48 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    March 23, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    4,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Japan
  • Country of Filming:
    Japan
  • Language:
    Japanese
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • IndieX Film Fest 2024
    Los Angels
    United States
    June 30, 2024
    Outstanding Achievement Award for Sci-Fi short
  • IndieX Film Fest 2024
    Los Angels
    United States
    June 30, 2024
    Nominated For Male Director
  • IndieX Film Fest 2024
    Los Angels
    United States
    June 30, 2024
    Nominated For Best Original Score
  • Symbiotic Film Festival 2024
    Kiev
    Ukraine
    July 28, 2024
    Official Selection
  • Fort Smith International Film Festival 2024
    Fort Smith, Arkansas
    United States
    August 22, 2024
    Official Selection
  • NewFilmmakers NY
    New York, NY
    United States
    October 1, 2024
    Official Selection
  • Folkstone Film Festival
    Folkstone, United Kingdom
    United Kingdom
    July 20, 2024
    United Kingdom Premiere
    Official Selection
  • SHORT to the Point
    Bucharest
    United States
    July 15, 2024
    Budapest Premiere
    Official Selection
  • Athens International Monthly Art Film Festival
    Athens
    Greece
    Honorable Mention
  • Hollywood Gold Awards
    Los Angeles
    United States
    Best Picture
  • New York Movie Awards
    New York
    United States
    Gold Award: Indie Short Film
Director Biography - Jii Zhang

Jii Zhang is a Japan-based movie director, originally from Shanghai, China. Since 2013, he has directed numerous music videos for prominent musicians and commercials for top companies in Japan and China, earning significant recognition. In 2017, his documentary on a Sogetsu Ikebana master won the Silver Award at The Golden City Gate Awards in Germany. His short film "SAKURA" won the International Short Film Award at both the Kanda Jinbochou Film Festival in Japan and the Chain NYC Film Festival in the U.S. From 2020 to 2022, his short film "SYNCHRO" garnered 10 international film awards across Japan, China, and the U.S.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

"Heart-Ware" is more than just a sci-fi film; it’s a reflection on the evolving relationship between humanity and technology. Set in a future Tokyo where AI has seamlessly integrated into daily life, this film aims to challenge the often-negative perceptions surrounding the rise of artificial intelligence. Rather than focusing on the fears of AI replacing human roles, I wanted to explore a narrative where the strengths of both humans and AI are celebrated in harmony.

In "Heart-Ware," the synergy between human emotions and AI precision becomes a driving force for innovation. The story of Sanada and his niece Yui highlights how human creativity, fueled by deep emotions and personal experiences, can be enhanced by AI’s capabilities. This collaboration is not about one side dominating the other but about how both can coexist to create something truly extraordinary.

Through this film, I hope to convey a positive message: that the fusion of passion and technology can lead to greater growth and understanding. As we continue to advance in the field of AI, it’s crucial to remember that technology is not here to replace us, but to augment our abilities, allowing us to achieve new heights that were previously unimaginable. "Heart-Ware" is a testament to the potential that lies within this collaboration, offering a heartwarming story that encourages us to embrace the future with optimism and hope.

- Jii Zhang