The Japanese-Finnish documentary film Instruments of a Beating Heart has been nominated Oscar in the ‘Best Short Documentary’ category. The film’s Finnish co-producer is Outi Rousu and composer Päivi Takala. The Finnish production company behind the film is Pystymetsä Oy. Director is Ema Ryan Yamazaki and producer Eric Nyari, Cineric Creative.
Instruments of a Beating Heart focuses on the inspiring story of a young girl, Ayame, and her determination to master Beethoven’s Ode to Joy. The documentary provides a heartfelt and intimate look at the Japanese elementary school system, where teamwork, discipline, and the nurturing of individual growth coexist in a delicate balance.
The documentary premiered in November 2024 on The New York Times’ prestigious Op-Docs platform, known for showcasing high-quality short documentaries to a global audience. In December 2024, the film was awarded ‘Best Short Documentary of the Year’ by the International Documentary Association (IDA) at its gala in Los Angeles. Now, it has been honored with an Oscar nomination.
The 97th Academy Awards will take place on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California, with Conan O’Brien hosting the ceremony.
Contact:
Producer Outi Rousu | outi@pystymetsa.fi | +358 40 541 2922 | Pystymetsä Oy
LINKS:
Oscar nominations
The New York Times: OP-DOCS
pystymetsa.fi 