Keanu Reeves teams up with Japanese director for new film

Keanu Reeves is set to voice the main character in a new stop-motion Samurai movie called Hidari.

The movie is based on a short film made by director Masashi Kawamura, which then went viral online.

The story is based on Jingoro Hidari, a famous craftsman from Japan’s Edo period. After being betrayed by powerful people, he loses the people he loves and even his right arm. Wanting revenge, he uses his woodworking skills to create deadly mechanical arms. He is also joined by a companion called the “Sleeping Cat.”

Reeves said he was impressed by the project and excited to be part of it. “I’m thrilled by the vision behind Hidari,” Variety quoted Reeves, who sees potential in the project to become something very special for audiences worldwide.

“From the proof of concept to the developed script, the team has created something truly extraordinary. It has all the makings of an exceptional film—one I’m excited to see and eager to be part of. I believe this project has the potential to bring something very special to audiences worldwide.”

Kawamura also said he is excited to work with Reeves and believes Reeves is helping make the world of Hidari even bigger and better.

“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, and I can’t wait to see where we take it together.”

The film is being produced by Noriko Matsumoto, whose studio has worked on popular Netflix projects including Rilakkuma and Kaoru.

The original Hidari short film has received nearly 5 million views on YouTube since 2023.

Kawamura is famed for his work on commercials, music videos, TV projects, and creative designs, including work connected to Expo 2025.