Keanu Reeves to Voice Lead in Stop-Motion Film 'Hidari'

Keanu Reeves Voices Vengeful Craftsman in Stop-Motion Drama 'Hidari'

Keanu Reeves is set to voice the lead in the stop-motion feature 'Hidari,' directed by Masashi Kawamura. The film expands from a viral proof-of-concept short and is inspired by the life of legendary Edo-era craftsman Jingoro Hidari. The story follows Jingoro's quest for vengeance after being betrayed and losing everything, including his right arm. The film is produced by Noriko Matsumoto, known for her work on Netflix's 'Rilakkuma' series.

Keanu Reeves to voice in stop-motion drama 'Hidari'

Washington DC, May 17

Actor Keanu Reeves is set to voice the lead in 'Hidari,' the stop-motion feature from Masashi Kawamura that he's expanded from his viral proof-of-concept short film, reported Variety.

According to the outlet, the action-packed feature takes inspiration from accounts of the life of legendary Edo era craftsman Jingoro Hidari, who will be voiced by Reeves.

Betrayed by those desperate to bury the secrets of Edo Castle's reconstruction, Jingoro loses everything. His father figure, fiancee, and even his right arm.

On the brink of despair, the legendary craftsman transforms his grief into an unyielding drive for vengeance. Armed with his extraordinary carpentry skills and a series of lethal mechanical prosthetic arms, Jingoro carves his own path to justice. With his loyal companion, the "Sleeping Cat," he faces his enemies in a gripping tale of revenge and self-discovery.

"I'm thrilled by the vision behind 'Hidari. 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," said Reeves as quoted by Variety.

'Hidari' film is produced by Noriko Matsumoto. Matsumoto has helped positioning dwarf studios as one of the first in Japan to collaborate with global streamers, with its Netflix series 'Rilakkuma' gaining widespread attention and popularity, reported Variety.

Her latest project, the short film 'Bottle George,' was shortlisted at the 2025 Oscars. The original short film has garnered almost 5 million views on YouTube since it was published in 2023.

Kawamura's resume includes commercials, music videos, and television shows, alongside creating clones for Lady Gaga and designing the largest pavilion at Osaka Expo 2025.

His projects have earned global recognition, including a Cristal at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, an International Emmy Award nomination, and top honours at One Show, Clio, and more, reported Variety.

— ANI

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Reader Comments

James A

Interesting choice. Keanu is versatile, but I wonder if his voice will suit a period Japanese setting. The proof-of-concept short was visually stunning, so the film has potential. Still, I hope they don't whitewash the story—the Edo period is deeply Japanese, and the casting should respect that cultural context.

Priya S

The 'Sleeping Cat' companion sounds adorable! I love that the craftsman uses his skills for revenge—it's like a mix of 'John Wick' and 'Kubo and the Two Strings'. Keanu's deep voice will bring gravity to the character's grief. Hope this gets a wide release in India! 🇮🇳

Michael C

Stop-motion in today's CGI-dominated world is a bold choice. The fact that the original short went viral shows there's an audience for this craft. Keanu's involvement will definitely bring eyeballs. Hope the pacing and action sequences justify the hype.

Vikram M

Revenge stories are universal, but the Edo period backdrop adds a unique cultural layer. I hope they explore the craftsmanship theme beyond just the action—like how the protagonist uses his skills to build the prosthetic arms. That could be a metaphor for resilience. Keanu is a good fit; his characters often carry that quiet intensity.

Sarah B

The team behind 'Rilakkuma' and 'Bottle George' has proven their stop-motion chops. Keanu joining is a smart move for global appeal. My only concern is whether the action will work in stop-motion—it can feel choppy if not done well. But if anyone can

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Keanu Reeves Voices Vengeful Craftsman in Stop-Motion Drama 'Hidari'

Keanu Reeves to voice in stop-motion drama 'Hidari'

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