Keanu Reeves is moving into samurai mode.
The actor is about to voice the lead in “Hidari,” the stop-motion function from Masashi Kawamura that he’s expanded from his viral proof-of-concept quick movie.
The action-packed function takes inspiration from accounts of the lifetime of legendary Edo period craftsman Jingoro Hidari, who can be voiced by Reeves.
Betrayed by these determined to bury the secrets and techniques of Edo Fort’s reconstruction, Jingoro loses the whole lot. His father determine, fiancée, and even his proper arm. On the point of despair, the legendary craftsman transforms his grief into an unyielding drive for vengeance. Armed along with his extraordinary carpentry expertise and a collection of deadly mechanical prosthetic arms, Jingoro carves his personal path to justice. Along with his loyal companion, the “Sleeping Cat,” he faces his enemies in a gripping story of revenge and self discovery.
“I’m thrilled by the vision behind ‘Hidari,’” mentioned Reeves. “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.”
Added Kawamura: “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.”
“Hidari” movie is produced by Noriko Matsumoto. Matsumoto has helped positioning dwarf studios as one of many first in Japan to collaborate with international streamers, with its Netflix collection “Rilakkuma” gaining widespread consideration and recognition. Her newest mission, the quick movie “Bottle George,” was shortlisted on the 2025 Oscars.
The unique quick movie has garnered virtually 5 million views on YouTube because it was printed in 2023.
Kawamura’s resume contains commercials, music movies, and tv reveals alongside creating clones for Girl Gaga and designing the most important pavilion at Osaka Expo 2025. His initiatives have earned international recognition, together with a Cristal on the Annecy Worldwide Animation Movie Competition, an Worldwide Emmy Award nomination, and prime honors at One Present, Clio, and extra.
Reeves is represented by WME.
