Stealing Murakami
A poetic, investigative documentary uncovering the details behind Haruki Murakami’s stolen works in bookstores across Toronto.
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Since 2017, several thefts have plagued Toronto used bookstores, specifically going after the works of famed Japanese author Haruki Murakami. Stealing Murakami begins with an investigative approach on the ongoing thefts in Toronto bookstores, yet quickly abandons this angle, emulating a common theme of Murakami’s, that finding something which has been missing often leads to disappointment. Stealing Murakami then dives into the abstract and experimental, seeking to understand the allure of Murakami’s work amongst the youth, while mirroring his trademark magical realist writing style through a visual medium.
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BEHIND THE SCENES
MEET THE TEAM
CO-DIRECTOR/PRODUCER - ASA KAZERANI
Hi! My name is Asa (pronounced uh-sa) and I'm a book lover. As a recent Murakami fan I was surprised to learn about his stolen works across used bookstores in Toronto. I'm excited to uncover this and learn more about his works and how people relate to it. |
CO-DIRECTOR/PICTURE EDITOR - MICHAELA AGUIRRE
Hey! My name is Michaela and for this doc I’ll be taking on the role of co-directing alongside Asa, as well as picture editing. As a new Murakami fan, I’m excited to get the opportunity to learn more about his works while also gaining valuable experience! |
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY - SARAH BERNIER
I’m super excited to be the DOP on this project! I have been practicing my skills within the camera and lighting department for a while now and am looking forward to making a contribution, in allowing this story to come to life visually. I think it’s going to be very special! |
PRODUCTION SOUND MIXER/SUPERVISING SOUND EDITOR - ELLIOT BEER
Hi, my name's Elliot! I'm working on the sound recording and editing for Stealing Murakami. I'm so excited to see where this project goes, and can't wait to share what we create with everyone! 
TRANSMEDIA PRODUCER - LAURA KING
I'm so excited to be part of this amazing team and go on this investigative journey through the works of Murakami! |
BTS CAMERA/SOUND - VANESSA SOLIVIO
Hi I'm Vanessa! I'm in charge of BTS Camera for Stealing Murakami. I love reading and whodunit mysteries. I'm so excited to be a part of this doc and get my Sherlock on! 
1st AC - ALICIA MOK
Helloo this is Alicia, and I put the A & C in 1st AC |
ASSISTANT PICTURE & SOUND EDITOR
I’m doing assistant sound and picture editing for Stealing Murakami and I’m a fan Murakami since high school, After Dark was first Murakami I read, really loved it! |