When I was a university student, I socialized with a friend who dreamed of being a movie director,
And started to frequently watch movies.

At first, I just watched them for enjoyment,
But somewhere along the way I started using a notebook to jot down
What my friend and I talked about,
Scenes and lines that made impressions, and profiles of directors and actors.

I drew stars next to works that I liked,
And sometimes wrote high-and-mighty comments,
Acting as if I were a critic.

It was something only I would ever read,
So I suppose I can cut myself some slack.

Recently, there are a lot of opportunities to watch movies on subscription,
But watching them at a movie theater really is something else.

It’s time spent in a completely dark room, focusing only on the screen
With no unnecessary distractions.
It’s an incredible feeling of immersion, and emotionally stirring.

I want to capture the feeling of freshness I get
When I find a great new work.

That’s why I made the decision to only watch a movie once.

Instead, I carefully put all my recollections
Into this small notebook,
Together with the ticket stub from my pocket.

I reread my notebook at a set time,
And hold my very own Academy Awards.
The fact that I fantasize about handing over Oscar statuettes
Is to be kept between you and me.