Tokyo-based director and visual artist Takafumi Tsuchiya (aka TAKCOM) merges flinty CG and atmospheric live-action footage into an dramatic product film for venerable Japanese knife and cutlery brand KAI.

TAKCOM: “The creative intention behind this project was straightforward: to create a stylish and striking film that reflects the prestige of KAI’s Seki Magoroku Kaname Master Line knife.

“While this a chef’s knife designed for cooking, I deliberately chose not to depict any typical culinary scenes. Instead, I focused solely on the product’s concept and aesthetic. The goal was to capture the spirit of the professionals who use this knife.
 

“While this is a chef’s knife designed for cooking, I deliberately chose not to depict any typical culinary scenes. Instead, I focused solely on the product’s concept and aesthetic.”

 
“The knife is crafted using a traditional Japanese technique akin to forging katana swords, where different metals are layered to create distinctive patterns on the blade.

“Design elements such as the octagonal handle and the blade’s curve inspired by traditional torii gates, are not merely decorative but are deeply meaningful. We aimed to symbolically drawing parallels with the beauty found in traditional Japanese nature and craftsmanship.

“To strengthen the impact, we integrated abstract live-action footage into the CGI, adding depth and authenticity to the visuals. It was a fascinating discovery to see how these traditional elements could seamlessly align with CGI simulations and the refined, minimalist aesthetics of modern design.”
 
 

 
Client: KAI Corporation

Production: Pyramid film
Director: TAKCOM
Design/CG: Taishi Yagyu
Producer: Shota Kono
Production manager: Shu Hanawa
DOP: Hiroai Aira

Edit: Jitto

Sound design: Yoshiteru Himuro