Takashi Ishii (film director)

Takashi Ishii (石井 隆, Ishii Takashi, born July 11, 1946, in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan) is a Japanese film director, screenwriter, and manga artist known for his stylish and often violent films, spanning genres from pink films and action to drama and horror.

Ishii began his career in the roman porno (softcore pornography) industry at Nikkatsu Studios in the 1970s, developing a distinctive visual style and narrative approach within the limitations of the genre. He often subverted the tropes of the genre, incorporating elements of suspense and psychological depth.

He transitioned to mainstream filmmaking in the 1980s, directing films that explored themes of obsession, violence, and the dark side of human nature. Some of his notable films include Angel Guts: High School Co-ed (1979), Freeze Me (2000), Gonin (1995), and its sequel Gonin 2 (1996).

Ishii's work is characterized by its stylish visuals, strong female characters, and unflinching portrayal of violence. He is also known for his work as a manga artist, often adapting his own films into manga form. His influence can be seen in the work of other Japanese filmmakers. He is considered a significant figure in Japanese cult cinema.