It’s no secret that Hideo Kojima is a huge fan of cinema. This admiration, cultivated over his impressive near-40-year career, has been evident since his early works like Metal Gear and Snatcher, which drew inspiration from classics such as The Terminator, Blade Runner, and Escape from New York. Now, in 2025, Kojima has realized his cinephile ambitions, meeting world-renowned filmmakers and incorporating their likenesses into his distinctive games centered on themes of death and societal breakdown.
Explore Further: Hideo Kojima’s Thoughts on Playing the Metal Gear Solid 3 Remake
Celebrated actors and directors were pivotal in the original Death Stranding, a trend amplified in Death Stranding 2. Kojima’s stature as a true auteur, a creator defined by a clear and unique vision, attracts similar-minded directors who contribute cameos to his projects. It’s essential to understand that an auteur’s strength lies in their vision, not in doing all the work single-handedly.
In an era saturated with content lacking this distinct vision, it’s crucial to recognize the filmmakers Kojima reveres and integrates into his work. Simply put, Kojima possesses exceptional taste in film, even more apparent now than in the first game. After Sam Porter-Bridges completes his deliveries in Death Stranding 2, immerse yourself in the cinematic world Kojima showcases. Below is a starter pack featuring the real-world film directors appearing in Death Stranding 2, along with essential viewing recommendations from their filmographies.
Guillermo Del Toro (Deadman) – Blade II [2002]
Del Toro, arguably the most recognizable director in the Death Stranding universe, is synonymous with films like the Oscar-winning The Shape of Water (2017) and Pan’s Labyrinth, whose aesthetic continues to influence games and film.
For a late-summer thrill, consider revisiting Blade II. Firstly, the Daywalker’s return to multiplexes seems unlikely. Secondly, Norman Reedus appears as Scud, Blade’s tech support. Most importantly, the movie delivers a perfect, brutal sequel to a contemporary action masterpiece, enhanced by Del Toro’s horror elements. Blade II‘s Reapers, pre-Eggers’ Nosferatu, epitomize terrifying vampires, devoid of romance or allure. The Reaper’s mouth reveal remains an unforgettable, chilling moment.
Honorable Mention: The Devil’s Backbone [2001]
For a more cerebral experience, explore The Devil’s Backbone, an often-overlooked gem in Del Toro’s filmography. Its unique take on a ghost story steers away from overt violence seen in Crimson Peak, making it a subtly chilling narrative.
Nicolas Winding Refn (Heartman) – Bronson [2008]
Refn, another returning director from the first Death Stranding, offers an unconventional perspective on arthouse cinema. Known for films like Drive, he deconstructs genre conventions, offering experiences that are either deeply resonant or entirely miss the mark. His films defy expectations.
However, Bronson is explicit in its portrayal of Charles Bronson, a destructive figure within the British prison system. The film is a delirious journey, capturing the viciousness of its subject. Tom Hardy’s performance is a standout, securing him the role of Bane in Dark Knight Rises. It’s a chilling depiction of a complex psychopath.
Honorable Mentions: Only God Forgives [2013] / My Life Directed By Nicolas Winding Refn [2014]
Only God Forgives is divisive, representing Refn’s attempt to apply his style to Asian crime epics, but with limited success. However, it provides context for the more compelling documentary, My Life Directed By Nicolas Winding Refn. Directed by Refn’s wife, Liv Corfixen, it explores the impact of his work on their family, moving to Bangkok for his challenging project. This personal perspective is significant, as Death Stranding 2 features Corfixen and their daughters in various roles.
Fatih Akin (Dollman) – In The Fade [2017]
Fatih Akin’s unique perspective, being a German-born Turk, sets him apart in Western media. His interviews radiate passion for art and life. A conversation between Kojima and Akin reveals their shared artistic philosophies. Kojima’s decision to make Dollman integral to Sam’s journey enhances the game.
In The Fade is an excellent starting point to Akin’s work. This easily accessible and relevant film explores the aftermath of a neo-Nazi attack. Katja’s quest for justice, following the loss of her family, is a gripping narrative. It’s a difficult but compelling watch.
Honorable Mention: Head-On [2004]
After In The Fade, dive into Head-On, featuring Sibel Kekilli (Game of Thrones). The story of a Turkish woman who enters a marriage of convenience with a suicidal punk is both grim and darkly humorous.
George Miller (Tarman) – Three Thousand Years of Longing [2023]
George Miller, famed for Mad Max: Fury Road, boasts a varied career spanning children’s classics and weepy dramas. While Furiosa deserves recognition, Three Thousand Years of Longing is an overlooked gem. This romantic fantasy about Tilda Swinton finding a genie, played by Idris Elba, explores themes of love and power across time. With stunning visuals and a beautiful score by Junkie XL, it’s a must-see.
The premise involves a woman, so content with her life, who struggles to make a wish. Through tales of love and misfortune across time, Elba’s character tries to convince her to make use of her magical chances.
The film is visually spectacular, with lavish direction, an emotional soundtrack, and a unique modern love story.
Honorable Mention: The Witches of Eastwick [1987]
If that’s too sentimental, there’s The Witches of Eastwick, a horror-comedy about three witches (Susan Sarandon, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Cher) who become involved with Satan (Jack Nicholson). The film features a score by John Williams, adding to its quirky appeal.
Mike Flanagan (Mike Northcote) – The Life of Chuck (2024)
Mike Flanagan excels in adapting Stephen King’s works, distilling their best elements. Known for Haunting of Hill House and Midnight Mass, Flanagan’s adaptation of Life of Chuck is a heartfelt, affecting film exploring the value of life. It consists of interconnected vignettes from Chuck’s life, played by various actors, after he discovers his impending death. The film is a testament to the importance of living fully.
The film is a literary defense of life, common in Flanagan’s works. The ensemble cast has performances from Flanagan’s wife, Kate Siegel, who appears in Death Stranding 2, adding to the film’s personal feel.
Honorable Mention: Doctor Sleep: Director’s Cut (2019)
Flanagan’s Doctor Sleep: Director’s Cut redeems the source material, offering an empathetic portrayal of alcoholism through the lens of The Shining. Rebecca Ferguson’s performance as Rose the Hat is a standout.
The Director’s Cut version should be considered as the definitive edition.
Danny and Michael Philippou (Mr. Impossible) – Talk To Me [2022]
The Philippou Brothers (RackaRacka) deliver a chilling possession tale in Talk To Me. The film explores the dangers of communication with the dead via a mysterious hand. Teenagers’ disregard for safety leads to horrific consequences.
The film’s teenagers use the severed hand to communicate with the dead, but following rules is not always their strong suit.
Honorable Mention: Bring Her Back [2025]
Bring Her Back is a more disturbing work than Talk To Me, concerning a foster mother who intends to transfer her deceased daughter’s soul into one of her new foster children. Sally Hawkins stars in the film.
S.S. Rajamouli (The Adventurer) – RRR [2022]
If you haven’t seen RRR, drop everything and watch it now! It’s a cinematic experience unlike any other.
RRR exemplifies the eclectic nature of Indian cinema, with action, music, and romance seamlessly interwoven. The plot is a historical fiction riff on The Departed, emphasizing the unbreakable bond between its heroes. With British assholes as the antagonists, the movie has incredible dance numbers, fight scenes, and animal attacks. Its excellence has earned it numerous accolades.
The core plot is similar to The Departed, but the characters and their unbreakable bonds is key. When the heroes meet for the first time, they help each other swinging from a bridge. The main conflict of the film comes down to the British in the 1920s. The Indian film would make Zack Snyder soil himself with awe. The title represents Rise, Roar, and Revolt.
Honorable Mention: Baahubali: The Beginning and Baahubali: The Conclusion
If RRR took time to describe, we can only imagine the Baahubali flick. It is described as the “Indian Lord of the Rings” with the main character riding bulls into Helm’s Deep.
Also, Rajamouli’s stepson, S.S. Karthikeya, plays The Adventurer’s Son in Death Stranding 2.
Yusaku Matsumoto (The Architect) – Winny [2023]
Matsumoto’s filmography is less familiar. However, Winny is available for streaming in North America. The film narrates Japan’s version of Napster/Limewire, focusing on the legal battles and the response of law enforcement. While it lacks the flair of The Social Network, it’s still engaging.
Honorable Mention: House of the Owl [2024]
Matsumoto also directed the TV Show, House of the Owl on Hulu, a Japanese riff on the series, Succession. The show features a show about politics and political schemer guiding their hands. The TV show is slow and the show rarely crosses the Pacific, creating an interesting perspective.
Kevin Ko (The Ghost Hunter) – Incantation [2022]
Incantation initially presents itself as a standard found-footage horror film. However, it distinguishes itself with its use of Taiwanese religious symbology, creating a deeply unsettling experience. Despite some flaws, it earns its terrifying conclusion.
The film is similar to a game called Devotion, famous for being stomped out of existence by the Chinese government, by emphasizing the horror experience.
Honorable Mention: A Choo [2020]
A Choo is a quirky superhero film that focuses on an orphan dedicating his life to protecting his childhood friend. It’s unconventional but ultimately rewarding. The climax combines the journey of E.J. to strike one lucky punch against the supervillain.
Mamoru Oshii (The Pizza Chef) – Ghost In The Shell [1995] / Ghost In The Shell: Innocence [2004]
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