Keanu Reeves is getting into samurai mode.
The actor 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.
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, fiancée, 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,’” said 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” 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. 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 honors at One Show, Clio, and more.
Reeves is represented by WME.
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