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Metal Gear Solid Creator Hideo Kojima Quips That He Wants to Die in a Movie Theater, Just as the Film Itself Is About to Start
Metal Gear Solid and Death Stranding creator Hideo Kojima has said he would like to die in a cinema, right before a film begins, describing the pre-screening moments of dimmed lights, trailers and adverts as his favourite part of the experience. The 62-year-old developer made the remark, delivered with a hint of humour but in a serious tone, during a film festival appearance in Rome earlier this month, and footage of the moment was later shared on his official X account.
The comment is not the first time Kojima has reflected publicly on mortality; he has previously spoken of leaving staff a USB stick of unfinished game ideas for after his death and described becoming more conscious of his limited time following a serious illness during the pandemic. The Rome remark was made at the Piccolo America Foundation's Il Cinema in Piazza festival, where Kojima also took part in panel discussions and introduced several films, including works by Toei studio and Dario Argento, discussing their influence on his own game design.
In short
- Kojima says he'd like to die in a cinema just before a film starts
- Made the remark at a Rome film festival in July 2026
- Follows earlier comments about mortality and leaving unfinished game ideas behind
Explained simply
Hideo Kojima is a legendary video game designer best known for creating the Metal Gear Solid series, one of the most influential gaming franchises of the past three decades, as well as Death Stranding. Alongside his work in games, Kojima has long been passionate about cinema and frequently incorporates film techniques and storytelling approaches into his designs.
The 62-year-old developer has previously spoken publicly about mortality. He experienced a serious illness during the pandemic that heightened his awareness of his own finite time, and he has discussed leaving behind unfinished game ideas on a USB stick for his team to continue after his death.
Kojima regularly attends and participates in film festivals, giving talks about how cinema has influenced his work and discussing the filmmakers who have shaped his creative approach. These festival appearances have become a consistent part of his public activities over many years.