Makoto Ueda

Makoto Ueda (born November 4, 1979) is a Japanese playwright, screenwriter, and director. He is widely recognized for his leadership of the Kyoto-based theater troupe Europe Kikaku, which he founded. His work frequently incorporates elements of science fiction, comedy, and time-travel narratives.

Career

Ueda has been a central figure in the Japanese theater and television industry, often collaborating with members of Europe Kikaku on both stage productions and screen adaptations. His writing style is noted for its intricate plotting and focus on ensemble-driven comedy.

Notable Works

One of his most recognized contributions is the screenplay for Summer Time Machine Blues (2005), a film based on his own stage play that gained significant attention for its clever use of time-travel mechanics. Throughout his career, he has written for various television dramas, including Don't Use Time Travel for Love (2023) and Renovation Like Magic (2022).

Selected Filmography

Screenwriting

Summer Time Machine Blues (2005)
Go Find a Psychic! (2009)
A Seaside Weekly Tabloid (2018)
Rewrite (2025)
Kokosei Kazoku (2027)

Television Dramas

Europe Kikaku's 26th Century Fox (2014)
Shimokitazawa Die Hard (2017)
Super Radical Gag Family (2020)
Renovation Like Magic (2022)
Don't Use Time Travel for Love (2023)