Godzilla is back in a big way, thanks to directors like Takashi Yamazaki. Recently, Hollywood made a splash with Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, followed by Godzilla Minus One, marking a new era for Toho’s Godzilla films. Yamazaki even earned an Academy Award for his work.
According to a recent report from Japan, anime producer and film lecturer Toshio Okada posted a video discussing the impact of Godzilla Minus One. In the video, Okada mentioned Yamazaki’s career and hinted that his next film might be an adaptation of Barefoot Gen.
Barefoot Gen, created in 1973, is a seminal manga depicting the impact of World War II. It began in 1945 in Hiroshima, where its creator, Kenji Nakazawa, was born.
The manga is loosely based on Nakazawa’s experience as a survivor of the Hiroshima atomic bomb, portraying the life of a six-year-old named Gen Nakaoka. It’s known for its jarring art and complex themes, which Yamazaki excels in.
While Yamazaki hasn’t confirmed his next film, the rumor of a Barefoot Gen adaptation has sparked interest. Okada is confident in the project, given Yamazaki’s success with Godzilla Minus One.
English editions of the manga are available for those unfamiliar with Nakazawa’s work, which is a harrowing reminder of the suffering caused by war.
Until Yamazaki makes an official announcement, fans are eagerly awaiting to see if Barefoot Gen will be his next cinematic endeavor.
