Shinya Tsukamoto was born in
Shibuya,
Tokyo on January 1st, 1960. At a young age he was inspired to make his own films after watching a popular
Ultraman precursor,
Ultra-Q. While attending
Nihon University Tsukamoto started a small acting troupe and directed/starred in some student films. After college, he worked for a "
real" film studio for 4 years, until he
resigned and started his own "Phantom Theater."
In 1989 Tsukamoto
produced/
directed/
starred in
Tetsuo: The Iron Man. The film's gritty
techno-fetishism would become his trademark, and make him an international independent film star. His almost
break-neck approach to film making captured audiences, but when his first mainstream movie, Hiruko - Yokai Hunter was released, it met with mixed criticism. Afterwards Shinya returned to his roots with
Tetsuo II: Body Hammer. A full color steroid pumped sequel to the film that made him famous, Body Hammer was again stirring interest in Tsukamoto's work.
In 1995, Tokyo Fist was released. It had nothing to do with
technology, or the bio-metal that captured Tsukamoto's normal audience. Tokyo Fist tells the story of the
breaking point of the human
psyche, and the fragility of modern relationships. Tuskamoto's trademark straight shooting style is still evident here, despite the lack of his trademark
shock elements. The human mind can prove to be just as
frightening as any mass of
metallic flesh. Despite all his
success in Japan, Tsukamoto still aspires to move to
Hollywood and bring his unique style directly to the American Market.
Filmography
1974-79
Genshi-san
Tsubasa
Jigokucho Shoben
Geshuku Nite Tondayo
1986
Futsu Saizu No Kaijin
1987
Denchu-Kozo No Boken
1989
Tetsuo: The Iron Man
1991
Hiruko - Yokai Hunter
1992
Tetsuo II: Body Hammer
1993
Tetsuo II: Body Hammer Super Remix Version
1995
Tokyo Fist
1998
Bullet Ballet
1999
Gemini
2002
Snake of June
2004
Vital
Tetsuo: The Iron Man has been released domestically by
Fox Lorber/
Image; Tetsuo II: Body Hammer and Tokyo Fist have been released by
Manga Entertainment.
Filmography and some info from http://www.atom.co.jp/classic/UNSOUND/Actual/Unsound/UnpopOffice/Artists/Tsukamoto/