Bela Bajaria Chief Content Officer at Netflix | Official website
Netflix and Toho are set to collaborate for the first time to reboot the iconic 1960 special effects film, "The Human Vapor," as a live-action series. The new series will feature advanced visual effects and a contemporary storyline.
The project will be executive produced and written by Yeon Sang-ho, known for works like "Train to Busan" and "Hellbound." Co-writing the script is Ryu Yong-jae, while Shinzo Katayama, recognized for his direction in "Missing" and "Siblings of the Cape," will direct the series. The cast includes Shun Oguri and Yu Aoi, reuniting on screen after 23 years. The series is produced in association with WOW POINT, noted for its recent Netflix series "Parasyte: The Grey."
Originally directed by Ishiro Honda, who also created "Godzilla," "The Human Vapor" premiered in 1960 under Toho's banner. The film explored themes of power structures and societal oppression and remains a significant piece of cinema history. The upcoming series aims to rejuvenate this classic tale with state-of-the-art VFX, setting it in modern-day Japan.
Shun Oguri shared his enthusiasm for the project: "I was captivated by the intriguing developments and the human drama that you would never expect from this title. With the extraordinary talents from both Japan and Korea, along with our incredible Japanese cast, I am beyond excited to be part of building this wonderful work step by step."
Yu Aoi expressed her excitement as well: “I am looking forward to discovering what kind of experience this will be. While striving to deliver this work to everyone, I also want to maintain the spirit of adventure that is unique to our team.”
Yeon Sang-ho highlighted his long-standing interest in subculture films: “Among the proposals from Toho, there was 'The Human Vapor.' It is a 1960 film but its sci-fi expressions are still impressively skillful. I believed that if it were reborn with modern visuals, it would be truly fascinating.”
Director Shinzo Katayama remarked on his involvement: “Watching 'The Human Vapor,' I was intrigued by its blend of human drama and romantic elements despite featuring an absurd creature like the Human Vapor. I saw potential to modernize this classic special effects piece with today’s VFX CG.”
Both Yeon and Katayama worked together on the script over several years, even holding a scriptwriting retreat in Korea to fine-tune details considering cultural nuances between Japan and Korea.
Regarding casting decisions, Yeon said: “While writing the script, the first actress I thought of was Yu Aoi... As for Shun Oguri... When I met him in person, his passion was palpable.”
Katayama added: “It has been 23 years since Oguri and Aoi last co-starred, and I am very excited to capture the unique chemistry they will bring to this project.”
Yeon emphasized creating globally appealing works: “As a creator in today’s world... our mission is ‘to create a work that global audiences can enjoy.’”
Katayama echoed similar sentiments about global reach while maintaining authenticity.
Both creators expressed anticipation for delivering unprecedented visuals due to special filming permissions granted in Japan.
