Hideo Kojima: Connecting Worlds

Gaming, in many ways, is an even more immersive experience than cinema. You're in the role of the game's protagonist, and your actions decide the progress of the story, unlike in cinema, where things are happening and you're basically a passive (but keen) observer. And Hideo Kojima is one of the true auteurs in the field of gaming; someone who doesn't stick to conventions and rulebooks. He, instead, creates his own.

This documentary serves as a shallow dive into the bizarrely creative mind of Kojima, but even at just under an hour, it feels long. It's a blast when you get to hear from Kojima and his close colleagues (about how he and his peers function), but also sort of a fluff piece when you have visionary filmmakers (such as George Miller, Guillermo del Toro, and Nicolas Winding Refn) and musical artists (like Grimes, Woodkid) chiming in with their thoughts on the man. Death Stranding, a divisive game that released in 2019 right before the onset of the COVID pandemic, is given all its "prophetic" dues. The film only brushes over Kojima's past achievements (with Konami), which I'm guessing, goes against its aspirational purpose.

Whether it's in gaming or any other art form that involves some level of storytelling, I'm glad minds like Hideo Kojima exist; you know, the kind who fight the algorithm and stay original without so much as caring for perception (or mere validation).

Hideo Kojima: Connecting Worlds isn't the deep dive into Kojima's career or creative process that it could've been but it remains an engaging look at gaming's first and most popular auteur. There's a great selection of interviewees here and any time it focuses on the development of Death Stranding are the strongest parts.

Glen Milner's direction pulls out all the stops with its dramatic slow motion, animated sequences and grand statements which show a clear reverence for his subject. However, one grating choice is the decision to introduce everyone almost every single time they're interviewed which is baffling considering it's only an hour long.

Rather strange. It dives into his childhood and creative vision, all while showing behind the scenes footage of the development of Death Stranding. The overall pacing and formula is really off. It makes absolutely no mention of Silent Hill and briefly talks about Metal Gear Solid but glosses over what was clearly a huge part of his career. As someone who only knows a bit about his contributions outside of Death Stranding, I was left without any sort of clarification or information about where he started out and how he got to be such a respected member of the gaming community. At just under an hour in length, it felt like a YouTube special or a bonus unlockable from the game.

Hideo Kojima's latest documentary, "Connecting Worlds," is a mesmerizing exploration of the visionary creator's ability to seamlessly intertwine the realms of gaming, storytelling, and the broader spectrum of human experience. With a deft touch, Kojima invites viewers on a journey that transcends the boundaries of traditional media, showcasing the interconnectedness of his creative pursuits and the impact they have on our collective consciousness.

The documentary opens with a captivating montage that sets the tone for what unfolds - a visual and intellectual adventure that mirrors Kojima's own exploration of the intersections between technology, philosophy, and art. "Connecting Worlds" doesn't merely focus on Kojima's games; it delves deep into his philosophy, examining how his work serves as a bridge between the virtual and tangible worlds.

Kojima's distinctive storytelling style is evident throughout the documentary, as he masterfully weaves personal anecdotes, interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage into a cohesive narrative. The film provides an intimate look at Kojima's inspirations, challenges, and the evolution of his creative vision. What emerges is a profound understanding of how Kojima's unique perspective shapes not only the narratives of his games but also the broader cultural landscape.

One of the standout features of "Connecting Worlds" is its exploration of Kojima's collaborations with artists, musicians, and intellectuals from various disciplines. The documentary captures the essence of these partnerships, emphasizing the cross-pollination of ideas and the richness it brings to Kojima's work. The seamless integration of these diverse influences into his games is a testament to Kojima's commitment to creating experiences that resonate on a profound level.

Visually, the documentary is a feast for the eyes. The cinematography skillfully captures the grandeur of Kojima's game worlds while also providing a glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship behind each project. The soundtrack, a hallmark of Kojima's games, complements the visual narrative, creating an immersive experience that mirrors the emotional depth found in his interactive creations.

"Connecting Worlds" not only celebrates Kojima's contributions to the gaming industry but also positions him as a cultural provocateur, challenging conventions and pushing the boundaries of what storytelling can achieve. It is a celebration of the interconnectedness of technology, art, and humanity - a testament to Kojima's ability to forge meaningful connections across disparate worlds.

In a world increasingly defined by digital experiences, Hideo Kojima's "Connecting Worlds" serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of storytelling and its capacity to bridge the gaps between virtual and tangible realities. This documentary is a must-watch for not only gaming enthusiasts but anyone intrigued by the limitless potential of human creativity.