Yoshiaki Kawajiri, the visionary director behind the cult-classic anime film Ninja Scroll, has opened up about his creative process and the reasons behind his nearly 20-year absence from directing feature films. This discussion comes as Ninja Scroll is set to receive a 4K theatrical re-release.
Kawajiri, whose other notable works include Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust, Goku: Midnight Eye, Wicked City, and Demon City Shinjuku, explained that his advanced age and a deep-seated need for full creative control make directing a feature film an impossibility for him at 75 years old. "I am the type of person who cannot leave a work entirely in someone else's hands, so at my age, and given my physical stamina, directing is no longer possible for me," Kawajiri stated.
Currently, Kawajiri is actively involved in supporting roles within the anime industry, contributing storyboards to acclaimed series such as Beastars, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, and Jujutsu Kaisen. He emphasizes that his involvement in storyboarding is contingent on finding the project personally engaging. "My curiosity is my greatest weapon," he remarked, highlighting Frieren and Beastars as recent projects he thoroughly enjoyed.
Reflecting on the evolution of the anime industry, Kawajiri addressed the common sentiment among fans that modern animation quality has declined. He posits that this isn't merely nostalgia, but rather a desire for high-quality, entertaining content regardless of its era. "Truly excellent and entertaining works never lose their appeal, no matter how many years pass!" he asserted. Kawajiri also pointed to the emergence of original video animation (OVA) in the 1980s as a pivotal moment that fostered greater diversity and creative individuality, contributing to the global spread of Japanese anime.
Regarding the 4K re-release of Ninja Scroll, Kawajiri oversaw the restoration process, which involved meticulous work to preserve the original aesthetic. "By focusing on reproducing the original beauty and richness of the cels and background artwork, without compromising the atmosphere of the work or the texture of the film grain, I believe the result has an even more powerful look and feel," he said. He acknowledged the painstaking nature of removing imperfections from the analog production. Kawajiri expressed his hope that both longtime fans and new audiences will appreciate the enhanced visuals and the enduring quality of the film.
Iconic Events Releasing and AMC Global Media's HDIVE will present Ninja Scroll in select theaters across the United States and Canada on October 4, 5, and 7. Tickets are available through the Iconic Releasing website.