A few months ago, stylist Ai Takahashi and photographer Kaho Okazaki watched Mike Mills’ film, C’mon C’mon, and were inspired by the unscripted, generational dynamic between the two main characters. They decided to document their friends, some of today’s Tokyo youth. In a post-Covid world, these adolescents bring energy and life with their dreams, aspirations and individuality. They are moving to London, pursuing their dream jobs and making the most of their days in school.

FAR–NEAR asked each of them about their future, dreams and current sentiments.

“I lived in Kanto and moved to Kyushu when I was ten. I’ve learned the importance of life and nature from meeting many deaf people and being surrounded by nature after the move. I always appreciate the opportunity to meet new people and have gratitude. I want to continue to grow as a person.”

“I never forget to be proud of being deaf, no matter who I’m talking to. For me, being proud as a deaf person is accepting myself and loving that I speak through sign language.”

“My dream is to grow up as a cool adult who never forgets a child’s mind.”

“I used to swim competitively when I was a kid. I swam every day. I would rather have swam than walked at that time. Then I realized what I thought my 100% was actually just 80%. I would give up before the limit. Ever since that realization, I want to truly try my best at everything, every time.”

“I live by the belief that I should never put on shoes that won’t let me run away.”

“My first crush was an elder. We always went to the Dagashiya together, and he was the person who won the 10 yen chewing gum lottery every time.”

“My first crush was Jim Carrey. I loved the movie “The Mask,” and watched it every day when I was little. I had good taste at an early age. :)”