Hideo Kojima’s Kojima Productions have announced the opening of a Los Angeles-based film and television studio. It aims to push Kojima Productions’ games into other entertainment mediums. With the news comes renewed speculation about a possible Death Stranding movie adaption, which is now looking likely.
Riley Russell, a 28-year veteran at PlayStation, will lead the new Kojima Productions film division. He said, “The new division will be tasked with working with creative and talented professionals in television, music and film, as well as the more familiar games industry.”
Russell explained, “The team has as its charter, the goal of expanding the reach and awareness of the properties now under development at Kojima Productions, and to make them even more a part of our popular culture. Although we are a global organization, the new business development team will be centred in Los Angeles, CA. We are truly excited and looking forward to working with the very best entertainment talent we can, across all of the entertainment industries.”
Death Stranding Movie
Hideo Kojima’s Metal Gear games are some of the finest examples of movie-like games. Their complex narrative and cinematic cutscenes show Kojima always fancied himself the Ridley Scott of video games. Metal Gear seemed like an obvious choice for a movie adaption. But after Kojima’s much publicised split from Metal Gear owner Konami, the chances of him directing such a project vanished. However, thanks to Kojima’s new film studio, a Death Stranding movie adaption is a distinct possibility.
When Kojima’s Death Stranding was announced back in 2016, its cinematic trailer made waves. It’s one of the most memorable (and mysterious) trailers in video game history. All without showing a single glimpse of gameplay. Owing to its leading man, Norman Reedus, and its intriguing themes, visuals, and music, the enigmatic trailer captured the minds of gamers everywhere. And while the final product was polarising, Death Stranding was an artistically stunning game with clear cinematic ambitions.
While a Death Stranding movie hasn’t been officially announced, it seems like the natural first pick for the studio. Kojima clearly adores the project. And its existing Hollywood cast would provide a strong backbone for a film adaption should they return. Don’t get me wrong, its script could certainly use some work. I don’t think I’ll ever forget that god-awful “Mario and Princess Beach” line. But with some experienced guidance, a Death Stranding movie could be great.
Release Date
As mentioned, a Death Stranding movie is yet to receive the official green light. Norman Reedus, who portrayed Sam Porter Bridges in the game, recently appeared to confirm work on Death Stranding 2 had begun. So, given that the Kojima Productions film studio is just getting off the ground, it could be a while before we see a Death Stranding movie. Hell, it could even be a Death Stranding TV series for all we know. In fact, that might actually suit Death Stranding‘s narrative better than a feature film.
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