The Importance of Balance in Filmmaking: Why You Should Involve Non-Creative Collaborators

Why You Need Team Members Who Don’t Prioritize Artistic Expression

There are many forms of creative activity—crafts, painting, writing—and among them, filmmaking is one I personally enjoy and often recommend to others. But filmmaking has a unique characteristic that sets it apart: it’s inherently collaborative.

Of course, not every step requires group discussion, but it’s rare for a film to be completed entirely solo.

In my own workflow, I’ve developed a method that allows me to prepare about 70% of a film on my own, laying the groundwork for efficient production. Still, when it comes to shooting, I rely on many people to participate as cast members.

And here’s something crucial: don’t surround yourself only with “creative types.”

By “creative types,” I mean people who tend to focus on adding artistic flair—especially in direction and visual storytelling.

Stories of legendary creators are inspiring. For example, director Akira Kurosawa once had the roof of a house demolished because it interfered with a shot, then rebuilt it afterward. He also waited days for the perfect cloud formation. These anecdotes can lead people to believe:

• “It’s this kind of obsession that makes a film great.”
• “To create a masterpiece, you must be uncompromising.”

But that’s a misunderstanding.

Before you even get to artistic flourishes, there are countless practical challenges that must be addressed. And many creatives struggle with those tasks—even though they can be just as rewarding.

For example:

• Identifying and fixing inconsistencies in the script
• Creating a realistic production schedule and managing progress

These tasks don’t require a creative mindset. In fact, they benefit from a cold, businesslike approach: setting priorities, knowing when to stop refining, and moving on to the next task. This is how you ensure the film gets finished with consistent quality.

A Lesson from “Godzilla Minus One”

In 2023, director Takashi Yamazaki released Godzilla Minus One, a film I personally admire. After watching it in theaters, I sought out interviews and behind-the-scenes content.

One story stood out: despite repeated reminders to stay on schedule, the CG team kept reworking visually impressive scenes, neglecting other essential shots. Yamazaki joked that he ended up creating the grass on the runway himself.

This highlights a major issue: when only creatives are involved, priorities can get lost.

To complete a project, you need clear prioritization. Creatives tend to chase what’s exciting, which can derail the process. Passion is essential—but balance is even more important.

That’s why having non-creative team members is so valuable. They help maintain that balance.

The Role of the “Producer-Type” in Collaborative Creation

The anime and live-action adaptation of Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! features a character named Kanamori, who keeps the creative trio grounded. She represents the importance of having someone who can manage the chaos of artistic collaboration.

Creatives often shine during the act of creation—but struggle with what comes after. By the time the work is finished, they’re burned out. Their interest shifts from promoting the finished product to starting something new.

As a result, the completed work may never reach an audience. It becomes a forgotten artifact.

Just like products need both manufacturing and marketing, creative works need both production and utilization. If a creator burns out after completion, it’s ideal to have a team member who can take the lead in promoting and distributing the work.

Motivating Non-Creative Collaborators

To make this system work, you need to ensure that non-creators have their own sources of motivation.

Creators often find satisfaction in the messy, hands-on process itself. For them, “doing the work” is its own reward.

Non-creators, however, need roles that offer different forms of fulfillment.

During production, they can help with progress tracking and objective feedback. After completion, they can organize screenings, produce DVDs, build websites, and more.

By giving them titles like:

• Producer
• Event Organizer
• Distributor

—and sharing profits from the work—they gain tangible rewards and recognition.

Involving non-creative collaborators this way doesn’t dilute the joy of creation. In fact, it allows everyone to fully experience the richness of the process.

I hope this perspective proves helpful.