Should Nishino-san bring in Higashino-san as an external consultant? (Watching Poupelle)
I finally went to see the movie 'Poupelle of Chimney Town' for the third time, partly to show my support. The first time was the main feature, the second time was with Nishino-san's audio commentary,
and this time...it's the audio commentary session with Koji Higashino x Nishino-san.
It's the first time in my life I've watched the same movie three times, but to sum it up, this was the most rewarding experience yet. I feel like I've found a major solution to what I wrote about in my previous article.
The sense of discomfort regarding 'consistency' that Koji Higashino voiced
As I touched upon in my previous analysis, much of the criticism directed at this work focuses on 'script flaws' and 'setting consistency.'
What was interesting about this audio commentary was that Higashino-san was hitting Nishino-san with the exact points that the 'criticizing demographic' would be concerned about.
'Why is it like this here?' 'What are you trying to say here?'
Higashino-san wasn't just there to liven things up; he brought an extremely calm and sharp 'critic's' perspective. That must be because he has seen so much entertainment.
While grasping Nishino-san's intentions, he didn't miss the chance to poke at the 'discomfort' that viewers would likely feel. I felt that this exchange is the exact essence that this work needs most right now.
What was funny was, 'That kind of bread wouldn't exist for breakfast in another world.' I hadn't thought of that perspective.
He doesn't forget to tease, either
Of course, the classic 'teasing Nishino-san' that Higashino-san is known for was also in full effect.
When the 'CANDY' sign appeared in the bar scene, he said,
‘To those listening, please don't go on a pilgrimage to the holy site!’
After hearing about 'Lubicchi's memories,' when he said during the scene where Gus and the others are performing,
‘This isn't Lubicchi's memory, it's Nishino's memory,’ I almost applauded his ability to apply what he had just heard and elevate it.
Should Akihiro Nishino make Koji Higashino his 'advisor'?
The thing I felt most strongly after watching it for the third time is: 'Shouldn't Nishino-san show his scripts to Higashino-san?'
There probably aren't many people who can understand Nishino-san's talent while also teasing him mercilessly, and yet still watch the work purely and offer frank opinions.
Even the point I made in my previous article, 'Gus isn't shy, that's the technique of a playboy!', is something Higashino-san would likely laugh and retort to, saying, 'No, you've definitely done this yourself!'
If a perspective like Higashino-san's were added at the production stage, I can't help but feel the work's strength would increase even further, transforming it into perfect entertainment that leaves no room for criticism.
Audio commentary is really interesting, isn't it? I wonder what kind of discoveries I'll make next time.
(Postscript) A portion has been released in a video. Please take a look.
The parts about the holy site pilgrimage and the bread I wrote about above are included!
