Takashi Shimizu

Takashi Shimizu (born July 27, 1972) is a Japanese film director and screenwriter, widely recognized for his significant contributions to the horror genre. Born in Maebashi, Gunma Prefecture, Japan, Shimizu has built a prolific career spanning several decades, primarily focusing on supernatural and psychological horror.

Career

Shimizu gained international prominence with the Ju-on series, which began with the direct-to-video releases Ju-on: The Curse (2000) and Ju-on: The Curse 2 (2000). He later directed the theatrical versions Ju-on: The Grudge (2003) and Ju-on: The Grudge 2 (2003). His work on the franchise led to his involvement in the American adaptations, including The Grudge (2004) and The Grudge 2 (2006).

Beyond the Ju-on franchise, Shimizu has directed a diverse range of films, including Marebito (2004), Reincarnation (2005), and the 2014 live-action adaptation of Kiki's Delivery Service. In recent years, he has continued to work within the horror genre with films such as Howling Village (2020), Suicide Forest Village (2021), and Sana: Let Me Hear (2024).

In addition to his directing work, Shimizu has contributed as a screenwriter for many of his own projects and has occasionally appeared as an actor, notably in Vampire Girl vs. Frankenstein Girl (2009). He has also served as a producer on various projects, including Rigor Mortis (2013).