The Joy of Indie Filmmaking as a Hobby

A New Era Where “Filmmaking” Is a Hobby

When I say, “I make films as a hobby,” most people respond with something like, “Wow, that’s impressive!”

But for those of us who actually do it, it’s no different from saying, “I build model kits,” or “I enjoy bonsai.” It’s not particularly impressive—it’s just a hobby.

Still, I’ve wondered why people react that way. I think it’s because filmmaking involves a lot of technical skill.

Of course, drawing also requires technique, but filmmaking uses tools like video cameras and computers—machines that give the impression of complexity and expertise.

That’s why I often say:

“Filmmaking is a fun hobby.” “It’s not as intimidating as it seems.”

In my filmmaking workshops, I explain how beginners can create their own video projects and even let them experience it firsthand. But surprisingly few people actually go on to make their own films.

A Hobby That Adapts to Any Interest

Film is a diverse medium. Different genres attract completely different kinds of fans, and their tastes often don’t overlap at all.

For example:

• A film made by someone who loves theater
• A film made by someone who loves model kits

These will be entirely different in tone and style.

So even when two people say, “I love movies,” they might find they have nothing in common.

But here’s the beauty of it: no matter what your hobby is, if you learn the techniques of filmmaking, you can enjoy making films.

Let’s say you love sports—soccer or baseball. If you and your friends decide to make a sports-themed film and build a solid story, you might end up with a masterpiece.

Or if you’re into theater and want to create a film version of your performance that’s easy for people to watch, you could produce a high-quality drama.

The Potential of Craft-Based Filmmaking

Personally, I love model building, so I’ve spent years exploring the potential of miniature-based filmmaking—what’s often called “tokusatsu” (special effects).

When people hear “tokusatsu,” they usually think of monster movies where creatures destroy miniature cities.

For a long time, tokusatsu was seen as a way to create flashy effects—explosions, destruction, and spectacle.

But in reality, it’s a much broader technique.

Take the hit Japanese film Always: Sunset on Third Street, for example.

To evoke nostalgia, the film features old shopping streets and vacant lots. While it uses CGI, many of the buildings were actually miniature sets photographed and digitally composited.

This blend of analog craftsmanship and digital technology gives the film its warmth.

Personally, I find it more satisfying to build miniature sets from paper and wood than to create everything digitally.

My Journey into Special Effects

Back in high school, I became fascinated with the behind-the-scenes world of tokusatsu thanks to a film-loving classmate.

There was no internet then, so I relied on books to learn.

In old dinosaur films, it was easy to guess that the creatures were miniatures. But what really intrigued me was how those miniatures were composited with live actors in a single frame.

It was fascinating—and frustrating.

At the time, video cameras weren’t widely available, and the equipment needed to create composite shots like those in tokusatsu films cost millions of yen.

So I experimented with what was possible on my own, even though the scope was very limited.

A Dream Environment for Creators

Today, everything has changed.

Editing-capable computers are everywhere.

Video cameras are all around us.

Even smartphone cameras can capture footage that rivals professional gear from a few decades ago.

What was once a dream setup is now standard.

In the 1980s, professional creators spent huge sums to produce special effects. Now, people like you and me can do it on a shoestring budget.

Creative hobbies are all deeply rewarding, but I believe filmmaking offers one of the greatest senses of fulfillment.

Here, I’ll continue sharing updates from my own creative journey.