On Set: Home Is Where the Heart Is
Networking can feel like a full time job, especially in a new country. Finding the right people to collaborate with takes time, but every project is a chance to meet talented creatives, exchange ideas, and build lasting connections.
Recently, I joined a two day independent film production in Konohana Ward, Osaka. I started as a Production Assistant (PA) but quickly took on additional responsibilities throughout the shoot, something I was happy to do.
Along the way, I captured behind the scenes photos of the cast and crew while watching Monica's vision come to life. It was a rewarding experience and a great reminder that filmmaking is built on collaboration, creativity, and the people you meet along the way.
Home Is Where the Heart Is is an upcoming 2026 independent film directed by Monica, starring Tamaki Horibe and Scarlet.
After reading a portion of the screenplay, the story appears to follow two strangers who meet in a record store, discovering a shared passion for music before deciding to meet for drinks and explore their common interests further. While the premise suggests the beginning of a meaningful connection, it's not yet entirely clear whether the film is centered on a growing friendship or the early stages of a romantic relationship.
The screenplay leaves enough mystery to keep the audience curious, making the final cut something to look forward to. As the characters' relationship develops, it will be interesting to see which emotional direction the story ultimately takes.
The film was shot entirely in a handheld camcorder style, using mostly static compositions that allowed the actors' performances and movement to drive each scene. The visual approach reminded me of Wes Anderson, giving the audience the feeling of quietly observing intimate moments as they naturally unfold.
During production, I assisted with sound recording and consulted with first time director Monica on camera framing, shot composition, and lighting as we worked through each scene. It was a collaborative process that evolved from setup to setup.
The crew represented several countries, and as the only American on the production, it was inspiring to work alongside filmmakers from around the world. That diversity of perspectives made the experience even more memorable and reinforced how filmmaking can bring people together through a shared creative vision.
Home Is Where the Heart Is is expected to be released sometime in 2026.
