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Hideo Kojima’s High Picks: Should-See Japanese Movies in The Criterion Closet

Hideo Kojima, the famend creator of iconic video video games like Metallic Gear Stable and Dying Stranding, shouldn’t be solely celebrated for his contributions to the gaming world but in addition for his deep ardour for cinema. Not too long ago, he had the privilege of being a visitor on the Criterion Closet, a haven for film lovers at Criterion’s workplace in New York. On this unique area, notable administrators and actors are invited to pick their favourite movies and interact in discussions about them.

Kojima’s go to to the Criterion Closet unveiled a captivating glimpse into his artistic thoughts and the way his love for motion pictures influences his imaginative and prescient for the tasks he’s labored on. He curated a listing of 9 traditional Japanese movies from the Nineteen Fifties and Nineteen Sixties, every chosen for its cinematic significance and storytelling prowess. These choices present worthwhile insights into the creative influences and inspirations behind Kojima’s work within the realm of video video games.

Here’s a nearer have a look at the Japanese movies handpicked by Hideo Kojima throughout his go to to the Criterion Closet:

  1. Excessive and Low – Directed by Akira Kurosawa
    • Akira Kurosawa’s gripping thriller, “Excessive and Low,” is understood for its intense narrative and exploration of social class divisions.
  2. Late Spring – Directed by Yasujiro Ozu
    • Yasujiro Ozu’s “Late Spring” is a heartwarming household drama that delves into the complexities of generational relationships.
  3. Eclipse Collection 3: Late Ozu – A group of movies by Yasujiro Ozu
    • This Criterion Assortment set encompasses a number of late Ozu movies, providing a complete view of his distinctive storytelling type.
  4. Ugetsu – Directed by Kenji Mizoguchi
    • Kenji Mizoguchi’s “Ugetsu” is a haunting story of ambition, love, and the supernatural, set in opposition to the backdrop of war-torn Japan.
  5. Kwaidan – Directed by Masaki Kobayashi
    • “Kwaidan” is a mesmerizing anthology of ghost tales, showcasing the artistry and supernatural folklore of Japan.
  6. Harakiri – Directed by Masaki Kobayashi
    • Masaki Kobayashi’s “Harakiri” is a profound exploration of honor and samurai code, famend for its dramatic depth.
  7. Jigoku – Directed by Nobuo Nakagawa
    • “Jigoku” affords a descent into the abyss of hell itself, mixing horror and morality in an unforgettable narrative.
  8. Onibaba – Directed by Kaneto Shindo
    • Kaneto Shindo’s “Onibaba” is a visually beautiful and emotionally charged story of survival and temptation.
  9. Girl within the Dunes – Directed by Hiroshi Teshigahara
    • Hiroshi Teshigahara’s “Girl within the Dunes” is a surreal and thought-provoking exploration of isolation and id.

Kojima’s movie suggestions replicate his appreciation for the wealthy tapestry of Japanese cinema and its profound affect on his storytelling craft. As a creator who seamlessly merges the worlds of gaming and movie, his selections provide cinephiles and players alike a novel window into the creative sources that form his imaginative narratives.

You’ll be able to watch Kojima discussing these movies and his insights into their cinematic brilliance within the video out there on-line. His go to to the Criterion Closet not solely enriches our understanding of his artistic course of but in addition highlights the enduring affect of traditional Japanese cinema on modern storytelling.


Originally posted 2023-09-25 11:13:10.