Back in late 2022, it was announced that a film adaptation of Hideo Kojima’s Death Stranding was in the works. Since then, we’ve gotten quite a few updates, including news on its writer/director, distributor and even a release window. In a surprise announcement Kojima revealed that not only is the aforementioned film in the works, but so too is a Death Stranding anime.
In an interview conducted by Vogue Japan (translated by VGC), Hideo Kojima spoke on Death Stranding, its sequel and the upcoming A24 film. In discussing the live-action film, Kojima had this to say:
“I am currently working with A24 on a live-action film adaptation of Death Stranding. When it comes to adapting games into visual media, there are works like The Last of Us, which stays true to the original storyline, and films like The Super Mario Bros Movie which are more of a service to fans of the game.”
He continued, “While these works have their own merits, as a film enthusiast, I want to pursue the expressive potential of cinema. I aim to create a Death Stranding that can only be realised through film, one that could win awards at festivals like the Cannes Film Festival or the Venice Film Festival.”
In a surprising revelation, Kojima confirmed that another DS project is in the works, saying “In fact, we are also currently working on an anime adaptation.”
Little else has been shared regarding this newly announced project, however this isn’t the first time that Kojima has made reference to a Death Stranding anime, with the creative telling Variety last year “What comes next are different forms of media – movies, anime, TV dramas, etc. Basically, expanding the game IP to other media. That’s the second phase. That’s what we’re aiming for next” – in reference to Death Stranding.
It was already a question as to what Kojima has planned for the Death Stranding film, how closely it’ll tie in to the game, and whether the actors will reprise their roles in the film.
With an anime now also in the works, Kojima’s plans for the world of Death Stranding have become even more curious. We will have to wait and see what is in store. Fortunately, we’ll have Death Stranding 2: On the Beach to look forward to in the meanwhile.
KitGuru says: What do you think of Kojima’s statements? Would you prefer a film or anime adaptation? Will either of these projects connect directly to the game? Let us know your thoughts down below.
