“Rolling along on a bike or floating in a doctor's office's seasonal hamster display, Wheel Music explores the aesthetic feeling and social character of Sendagi, an old town in Tokyo under urban development in preparation for the planned Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics. Filmed in 2018, as director Nao Yoshigai notes: “The present scenery might soon disappear. I went out by bicycle with my video camera. This is a ‘life road-movie documentary.'” (Japan Cuts)
Wheel Music is screening at Japan Cuts
The aptly titled “Wheel Music” uses the mechanical click of tire spokes as the soundtrack to the journeys of Nao Yoshigai through Tokyo. As a result, the production has a calming aura to it in its simplistic sound design and ASMR sounds of mechanical noise mixed with background noise of idyllic locations.
In addition to the calming atmospheric soundscape, the visuals flow with a nice clarity and beauty. Consequently, the mix gives a rather serene impression of the people and society seen through the director's travels. These observations also capture the importance of the cycle in Japanese society, by showing how integral they are in various landscapes and social gatherings. Overall, the visual and audio presentation acts as a love letter towards transport and the micro adventures that come with.
The short film, while not really containing a discernible narrative structure, does manage to interject both reflective and humorous commentary. Notably, the short does pose questions as to the purpose of cycling and how it relates to our own sense of mortality, the need to both explore and conserve energy at the same time. Adversely, there are some more lighthearted observations within this theme such as a practitioner's odd obsession with hamsters. Undoubtedly, the director is able to weave poignant and clever reflections in the simplistic approach, marking one of its greatest strengths.
“Wheel Music” is an idyllic short acting as a meditation of transport and the culture of the town of Sendagi. Additionally, Nao Yoshigai is able to add some narrative charm to this picturesque film with some playful and creative observations. Ultimately, Yoshigai presents a perfect ride to join in on through both scenic beauty and short intimate portrayals of local life.
