The Flying Luna Clipper (found Japanese computer-animated art film; 1987)
Print advertisement from MSX Magazine for The Flying Luna Clipper
Status: Found
Date found: 12 Dec 2015
Found by: Matt Hawkins
The Flying Luna Clipper is a 1987 Japanese computer animated art film created by Ikko Ono and produced by Sony. The film was made entirely by using 8-bit MSX computers and was released on Video8, Betamax, VHS, and LaserDisc in Japan.[1]
Background
Ikko Ono was a graphic designer who worked as the cover artist for MSX Magazine. He has his own art gallery called Ikko's Gallery about using the computer as a tool for his illustrations. Ikko later had another column served for short films, including the basis for The Flying Luna Clipper called Ikko's Theatre.[2] It was first announced on the May 1987 issue to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the publication. The film was then released on October 1st of that year to VHS and then featured on Ikko's Theatre the following month.[3]
Plot
The film depicts a group of anthropomorphic fruits and other creatures who win a contest for a ticket on the first flight of a newly found Martin M-130 flying boat named the Flying Luna Clipper. Departing from Honolulu, they embark on a journey across the Pacific Ocean and watch short films on a 200-inch screen during the trip.
Cancelled Sequel
A revived run of MSX Magazine from 2002-2005 published 12 artwork in December 2003 by Ikko featuring characters from the film entitled The Flying Luna Clipper 2004 followed by a calendar featuring art of the year. Unfortunately, the sequel was never created.[4]
Availability
The film remained obscure and lost for 28 years after its released. It wasn't until December 2015 when the film was uploaded onto YouTube by journalist, Matt Hawkins.[5] According to Matt, one of his contacts found the film in a Japanese thrift store and sent it to him, but didn't have any information. It steadly grew to popularity, and in 2019-2020, Matt screened it theatrically at the Wonderville arcade in New York City.
Video
External Links
Reference
- ↑ Romchip interview with Ikko Ono Retrieved 27 Jun 2024
- ↑ Dream Flight Interpreted: The Deconstructed Flying Luna Clipper Retrieved 27 Jun 2024
- ↑ A movie made using MSX2 computers: The Flying Luna Clipper Retrieved 27 Jun 2024
- ↑ MSX Magazine featuring the characters and artwork for the cancelled sequel Retrieved 27 Jun 2024
- ↑ Cine Ludens: ‘The Flying Luna Clipper’ Retrieved 27 Jun 2024