Tokyo Revengers 2: Bloody Halloween - Destiny (2023)

Name: Hiranami Wataru
Native name: 平波亘
Nationality: Japanese
Gender: Male
Born: 1978

Wataru Hiranami (平波 亘, born 1978 in Nagano Prefecture, Japan) is a Japanese film and television director known for his work in both independent and commercial media. After graduating from ENBU Seminar, he began directing self-produced films in the early 2000s. His early short film Sch-Erzo (2008) gained recognition when it was selected for the PIA Film Festival, helping establish his career in Japan’s independent film scene.

Hiranami’s directing style often explores the subtleties of human relationships, youth, and the challenges of modern society, while sometimes leaning into surreal or darker elements. Over the years, he has built a diverse portfolio that spans feature films, short films, and television drama episodes. His works have been screened at festivals both in Japan and abroad, reflecting his presence in the international indie circuit as well as the domestic market.

Beyond directing, Hiranami has contributed to the growth of independent cinema in Japan. Since 2010, he has organized the event “EIGA TARO,” a platform aimed at showcasing and nurturing creative works. He is also active as an instructor, teaching directing and filmmaking techniques, and helping new filmmakers develop their craft.

Through his creative versatility and his commitment to fostering independent film culture, Wataru Hiranami has established himself as an important voice among the new generation of Japanese directors. His ability to move fluidly between television and cinema allows him to stay relevant and influential, ensuring his place in the evolving landscape of Japanese storytelling.