Lexus produces the 2nd lexus short film series

• Two rising filmmakers, Jon Goldman and Satsuki Okawa, interpret "Life is amazing" through their short films
• World premiere in Tokyo on May 29, 2014

Lexus producef two new short films for their second annual "Life is Amazing" Lexus Short Film Series. Two rising filmmakers (Jon Goldman, Satsuki Okawa with script writer Ken Ochiai) have been mentored through the creative process of interpreting "Life is amazing," by acclaimed filmmakers soon to be announced. 

The first presentation of the movies took place at the Short Shorts Film Festival in Tokyo on May 29—where the two filmmakers were in attendance. Two other premieres are also planned in New York and Los Angeles. Both films will be released theatrically at the end of July, followed by a worldwide release online in October.

Mark Templin (Executive Vice President of Lexus International) said, "It's an honour to continue our shared inspiration to make an impact on the craftsmanship of filmmaking. We're proud to shine a light on the passion, innovation and artistry that guides this year's rising filmmakers as they open our eyes to their interpretation of, 'Life is Amazing'."

The Lexus Short Films series will premiere online in October 2014. In the meantime, the films' progress and film festival schedule can be followed through www.lexusshortfilms.com beginning Thursday, May 29.

WHY LEXUS CHOSE TO DO LEXUS SHORT FILMS

In conjunction with product innovations, Lexus aims to elevate artistry and bring fundamental enjoyment through the creation of luxurious spaces, moments and feelings. One such step is supporting young creators with fresh ideas through the "Life is Amazing" Lexus Short Film Series with the Weinstein company.

LEXUS SHORT FILMS 2014

(1) Market Hours

Randall spends his days imagining the vibrant inner lives of various vendors at the multicultural urban market where he works; none more so than Angela, an angel with her own pastry shop. But Randall's inattention to his work has led to a string of thefts and soon threatens to cost him his job. A chance encounter with a beautiful starlet and her lapdog provides Randall not only an opportunity to break the ice with Angela, but a chance to prove his worth to everyone at the market - including himself.

Writer/Director: Jon Goldman

Jon is a graduate of Stanford University with a B.A. in English Literature and Creative Writing. His short film "Diplomacy," a wry take on the power of interpreters in top-level negotiations between the United States and Iran, played over two dozen film festivals worldwide including Abu Dhabi, South by Southwest and Tokyo Short Shorts, winning jury and audience awards in Paris, Aspen, New York, Switzerland and Mexico. He acts not only as director but also as script writer in Europe and America.

(2) Operation Barn Owl

Ellen and her group of friends band together to help her best friend Jonah create a picturesque proposal for his girlfriend. Ellen, however, must overcome her feelings for Jonah and any past promises they made to each other for the proposal to go as planned

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Director: Satsuki Okawa

Born in Tokyo, Satsuki earned her BA from Nihon University College of Arts and went on to graduate with an MFA from Columbia University in New York. Upon her graduation from Columbia, she directed several short films including "Koyuki's Wandering Football", which was commissioned for the Japanese Professional Football League as the J-league's 20 year anniversary project. Last year's Yubari favorite "Little Kyota Neon Hood" went on to gain acclaim on the international film festival circuit. The film not only won numerous awards domestically, but internationally.

Co-writer: Ken Ochiai

Ken he left his hometown of Tokyo after graduating from senior high school and went to USA. Ochiai graduated from the USC School of Cinematic Arts in 2006 with a BA in production. In 2008, he received his MFA from the American Film Institute Conservatory in directing. To date, Ochiai has made more than 30 short films, commercials, and music videos including "Half Kenneth" which won the Jury Prize from the Directors Guild of America; "Frog In The Well" which won the Crystal Award at the Heartland Film Festival. He received the Young Alumni Award from the USC in recognition of his achievements in filmmaking. Ochiai has directed three feature films, including "Tiger Mask" will be released in the fall 2013 in several Asian countries. The film is based on a Japanese legendary comic book series and produced by Toshiaki Nakazawa, producer from an Oscar-winning film "Departures".

ABOUT LEXUS

Since its debut in 1989, Lexus has earned a worldwide reputation for high-quality products and exemplary customer service. Lexus is the hybrid leader among luxury brands, offering hybrids that provide the best in innovative technology and premier luxury. The evolution of Lexus is reflected in the progressive designs of its new vehicles. The signature spindle grille, dynamic light treatments and sculptured lines create a distinctive look of luxury for Lexus.