Sofia Coppola: 'I'm glad we weren't kicked out of Tokyo making Lost in Translation'

Sofia Coppola has confirmed that parts of Lost in Translation were shot guerrilla-style without full permits, and that the production risked being expelled from Tokyo. Coppola pointed to two specific sequences: Johansson on the subway surrounded by real commuters, and the overhead shot of the actress at the famous Shibuya crossing. For the latter, the crew went into a Starbucks because it offered an incredible view, knowing they would never have received permission to film there.

'So we stole a few things in the spirit of guerrilla film-making,' Coppola said. 'And I'm glad we didn't get kicked out, yes.' The Guardian published the piece as part of ongoing coverage of Coppola's career, which has recently included a BFI London Film Festival session where she discussed the documentary Making Marie Antoinette, assembled from more than 80 hours of footage shot by her late mother. Principal photography lasted only 27 days, according to the film's Wikipedia entry, with a small crew and minimal equipment.

Cinematographer Lance Acord relied on available light where possible, and many Japanese places of business and public areas were used as locations. The film went on to gross $119 million worldwide and won Coppola the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay at the 76th Academy Awards. In the new interview, she also addressed the famous final whisper between Bill Murray and Johansson, refusing to reveal what was said.

'I like what Bill always says,' she told The Guardian. 'He says, "It's between them," so I'll leave it at that.'