By It’s widely known that Hideo Kojima is an aficionado of cinema. He frequently shares his reflections on recent films across social media, while Metal Gear Solid cutscenes are sometimes notorious for their length and extravagance. Additionally, the cast roster for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is brimming with prominent Hollywood figures. However, the illustrious game director was seemingly persuaded by none other than Guillermo del Toro to steer clear of filmmaking.
Kojima conveyed this in the most recent edition of Edge Magazine – currently available – where he reminisced about a conversation he had with Nicolas Winding Refn (director of Drive and a performer in Death Stranding 2) and Guillermo del Toro (famed for masterpieces like Shape of Water and Pan’s Labyrinth, as well as playing Heartman in Death Stranding).
“I am reassessing my priorities regarding what I should pursue,” Kojima mentioned to Edge, recalling that his discussion with the two filmmakers evolved into a dialogue “about how much time we have left to create” in life. “I have always nurtured a desire to direct a film, and falling sick prompted me to consider: if I wanted to create a film, I would need to do so in my 60s, which would be quite physically challenging.”
At that point, del Toro seemingly advised Kojima to reconsider his cinematic aspirations. “‘You don’t have to pursue live action films. What you’re creating now [in games] is akin to a live-action film. Avoid this outdated idea of entering filmmaking – simply continue doing what you’re already accomplishing.’
“However, I’m constantly contemplating the next decade,” Kojima added. “Since this is a relatively small company, unlike other entities in this sector such as Sega or Nintendo, I need to inform the team about our direction for the next ten years.”
Kojima will at least partially participate in A24’s forthcoming Death Stranding film, and his peculiar horror game OD also features an impressive lineup of Hollywood collaborators, including Jordan Peele, so I wouldn’t feel too sympathetic for him.