Keanu Reeves to Star in Dwarf Studios’ Full-Length Stop-Motion Samurai Film *Hidari*
Exciting news for fans of action and anime! Japanese stop-motion studio Dwarf Studios announced that actor Keanu Reeves will take on the role of Jingoro Hidari in their upcoming full-length stop-motion samurai film *Hidari*. The reveal came during the Annecy Animation Showcase in Cannes, where the studio shared details about their ambitious project.
Inspired by Japanese folklore, *Hidari* follows Jingoro, a legendary sculptor known for his lifelike animal carvings. According to legend, his name “Hidari” (meaning “left” in Japanese) stems from a tragic event where he lost his right arm and his father in an “accident” during the reconstruction of Edo Castle. Now, decades later, Jingoro embarks on a revenge quest with his partner “Sleeping Cat” and a weaponized prosthetic arm. His journey leads him to uncover a conspiracy involving the Tokugawa Shogunate, battling mechanical soldiers, and ultimately facing a giant weapon of mass destruction in Edo.
The film’s pilot version, which first streamed online in 2023, has already gained massive popularity, racking up over 4.9 million views on YouTube. It has also won several international awards, proving its appeal beyond Japan. The full-length version, set to be 90 minutes long, is still in production and aims to debut in 2029. The project is backed by a Kickstarter campaign that has raised over 15 million yen (approximately $95,000) from 1,419 supporters.
Dwarf Studios’ team includes director Masashi Kawamura, co-director Iku Ogawa, and a talented group of artists and craftsmen. The film’s wooden puppets are crafted by TECARAT, while Kawamura’s studio, Whatever Co., handles the script, direction, and production. The story blends historical elements with fantasy, drawing from myths about Jingoro’s origins.
With Keanu Reeves’ star power and a unique stop-motion style, *Hidari* promises to be a thrilling addition to the anime and action genres. Fans can follow the project’s progress on its official website and social media channels.
