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Oscar-winning filmmaker Chloé Zhao and producer Nicolas Gonda have joined forces with Japanese publishing giant Kodansha to launch Kodansha Studios, a new global production company dedicated to creating live-action adaptations of iconic manga series. Kodansha is home to legendary titles such as Attack on Titan, Akira, Tokyo Revengers, Blue Lock, and Initial D.
Building Bridges Between East and West
Zhao, best known for Nomadland and Marvel’s Eternals, will serve as Chief Creative Officer, while Gonda will take on the role of President and COO. Together, they aim to bridge Japanese manga storytelling with global cinematic production, connecting top manga creators with filmmakers from around the world.
Zhao shared her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “I grew up reading and drawing manga. Kodansha’s library is filled with masterpieces waiting to be brought to life onscreen. By connecting these brilliant authors with filmmakers, we can create a wave of exceptional storytelling for audiences around the world.”
Kodansha’s Vision for Global Storytelling
Kodansha CEO Yoshinobu Noma highlighted how the new studio represents a major milestone in the company’s evolution. “Our mission is to inspire impossible stories,” Noma said. “Kodansha Studios marks a new chapter in our relationship with global artists and producers.”
Founded in 1909, Kodansha remains Japan’s leading publisher, managing operations in over 40 countries and boasting a library of more than 4,000 titles. Its influence has expanded far beyond Japan as manga and anime continue to dominate international entertainment.
The Team Behind the Vision
Zhao’s recent work, Hamnet, starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, won the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival, marking her second time receiving the top audience honor. Meanwhile, Gonda — known for The Tree of Life and collaborations with Disney, Epic Games, and Warner Bros. — brings years of production experience and creative leadership to the new venture.
What’s Next for Kodansha Studios
Kodansha Studios plans to produce a range of live-action films and series across genres like fantasy, romance, drama, horror, and action — all adapted from Kodansha’s renowned manga library. With Zhao and Gonda leading the charge, the studio aims to bring these stories to global audiences while staying true to the essence that made them beloved in the first place.
