Photo/Illutration A scene from “Junk Head” ((c) 2021 MAGNET/ YAMIKEN)

“Junk Head,” a grotesque but humorous feature film that uses dolls for most of the characters, was literally made from scratch.

Its director, Takahide Hori, had neither knowledge nor experience in filmmaking and is entirely self-taught.

That explains the seven years it took to get the project off the ground. The film is now on theatrical release.

Hori, an interior decorator who has worked on interior designs at a theme park and other facilities, produced all the dolls and sets that were needed, serving as director, cinematographer, editor and music director.

“It wasn’t easy, but I thought this was how it was because I started the project without any knowledge,” he recalled.

The story is set in a future world where humans have become sterile. The protagonist undertakes a solo investigation into the underground world, only to find a labyrinth where artificial creatures known as Marigans have evolved in their own unique way, and frightening monsters roam.

The film sets were installed in his home and a factory. The largest one measures 3 meters by 5 meters.

Hori deliberately made them look dirty to create both a lived-in feel and creepiness.

The director went online to learn how to make dolls for stop-motion animation. He shot videos of his own acting to trace his movements and move the dolls.

“There were only three or so main staff members,” Hori added. “I made the first 30 minutes all by myself, and it took four years. I also did the voices for almost all the characters.”

The story ends in an unexpected manner, but it is only the first of a three-part series.

“I’m surprised to see my first film theatrically released, but I want to use this momentum to make two more movies to complete the series,” he said.

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