Keanu Reeves is set to voice the main character in 'Hidari', a Japanese stop-motion film directed by Masashi Kawamura, as announced by the project’s producers at Cannes.
The Film and its Inspiration
The feature-length film 'Hidari' builds on Kawamura’s viral 2023 short, which has amassed nearly 5 million views on YouTube. Inspired by the legend of Jingoro Hidari, a master carpenter of Japan’s Edo period, the story follows the craftsman as he seeks vengeance using mechanical prosthetic arms he designed, after losing his father figure, fiancée, and right arm in a betrayal related to the secret reconstruction of Edo Castle. Kawamura, who also penned the screenplay, has crafted a unique narrative.
Reeves's Enthusiasm
Reeves expressed excitement about the project, stating, “I’m thrilled by the vision behind 'Hidari'. The team has created something extraordinary, and it has all the makings of an exceptional film. I believe this project has the potential to bring something very special to audiences worldwide.”
Reeves's voice work includes roles like Duke Caboom in 'Toy Story 4' and Shadow the Hedgehog in 'Sonic the Hedgehog 3'. He has also produced and narrated projects under his BRZRKR comic-book and Netflix banner.
Director and Production Team
Kawamura, a Tokyo-based director, is known for his design-driven work in various mediums. His accolades include a Cristal at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival and an International Emmy nomination. The film is produced by Noriko Matsumoto of Dwarf Studios, which collaborated with Netflix on the 'Rilakkuma' series. The production is a joint effort among Dwarf Studios, Tokyo's creative agency Whatever, and animation house TECARAT, with financing from Questry Co.’s Tomonobu Ibe.
Collaboration and Future Prospects
Kawamura stated, “I’m super excited to be collaborating with Keanu. When someone with his experience and creative vision watches your proof of concept and says, ‘I want to be part of this,’ it’s an incredible feeling. He’s not just lending his voice to 'Hidari' — he’s helping us shape and expand this world.”
The release date for 'Hidari' is not yet set. Reeves is represented by WME.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/keanu-reeves-voice-cast-hidari-japanese-stop-motion-samurai-epic-masashi-kawamura-1236597930/
