What emotional reactions did Chloe Zhao and Kore-eda Hirokazu have to each other's films?

Chloe Zhao and Kore-eda Hirokazu both cried over each other's films - Kore-eda was deeply moved by Zhao's "Hamnet," while Zhao spent an hour crying over Kore-eda's "After Life."

How do Chloe Zhao and Kore-eda Hirokazu approach the creative process of filmmaking?

Neither Zhao nor Kore-eda knows how their films will end when they begin shooting, with Zhao admitting this "very stressful" process. Kore-eda also abandons storyboards once on set and rewrites the script as he goes.

What themes do Chloe Zhao and Kore-eda Hirokazu explore in their films?

Zhao and Kore-eda discovered deep thematic connections in their work, exploring themes of the human experience, the power of storytelling, and the illusion of separation between people.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Acclaimed Directors Zhao and Kore-eda Reveal Emotional Connections in Intimate Conversation

Acclaimed Directors Zhao and Kore-eda Reveal Emotional Connections in Intimate Conversation

3 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Chloe Zhao and Kore-eda Hirokazu cried over each other's films before their conversation
Neither director knows how their films will end when they begin shooting
Zhao and Kore-eda discuss their unconventional creative processes and shared themes

Acclaimed Directors Zhao and Kore-eda Reveal Emotional Connections in Intimate Conversation

In a recent conversation at the Tokyo International Film Festival, acclaimed directors Chloe Zhao and Kore-eda Hirokazu opened up about the deep emotional connections they share through their filmmaking. Prior to their discussion, both directors had been moved to tears by each other's work - Kore-eda was deeply affected by Zhao's "Hamnet," while Zhao spent an hour crying over Kore-eda's 1998 masterpiece "After Life."