CATDOLL: Kunihiko Ikuhara talks about "Yuri Kuma Arashi": Yuri is a modern expression of love and does not dislike homosexuality

I wonder what you think about the second episode of "Yuri Kuma Arashi" where a girl is pushed down three times in half an hour. Director Kunihiko Ikuhara recently accepted an interview with a reporter and talked a lot about this film and his understanding of yuri. It is a good opportunity for everyone to understand Ikuhara's thoughts. Of course, here is an excerpt.

Question (Reporter): "Yuri Kuma Arashi" is an animation centered on yuri, so why did you think of making an animation on this theme at this time?
Answer (Kunihiko Ikuhara): ... For example, if I want to write about the emotion of "love", it is difficult to directly describe the love between men and women. Why? From the moment I want to describe the love between men and women, "love" is no longer a joke. ... (Omitted) ... However, if we talk about the category of "yuri", if we use metaphors to express it, then "love" can be described very easily. Therefore, if we want to describe modern love, I think the category of yuri is very suitable. ... And the love between men and women is difficult to express directly without adding many filters.

Q: In your commentary on “Revolutionary Girl Utena”, you also talked a lot about yuri.
A: ... I don't mind homosexuality in the world. ... (Omitted) ... Although there are some slightly erotic elements in it, it's hard to see such pure scenes as "two girls whispering to each other" in other places. I think this is why I support homosexuality.

In fact, during the planning stage of "Yuri Kuma Arashi", there was a fierce conflict of opinion between the original character and the comic author, and even the entire plan was in jeopardy. At that time, Kunihiko Ikuhara had acute gastroenteritis. Today in 2015, this "pure" and "slightly erotic" work is finally presented to everyone. Director Ikuhara must be full of emotion.