‘Street Fighter’ Director Kitao Sakurai Breaks Down His Wild Video Game Adaptation

In the world of video game adaptations, "Street Fighter" has finally made its grand entrance. The movie, starring the likes of Noah Centineo, Callina Liang, and Andrew Koji alongside a star-studded lineup including Cody Rhodes, Orville Peck, and 50 Cent, tells the tale of a nefarious villain setting up a fighting tournament for his sinister purposes.

Director Kitao Sakurai, a veteran of "The Eric Andre Show" and André's 2021 film "Bad Trip," helmed this unique cinematic experience. Born in Japan and raised in Ohio, Sakurai credits the "Street Fighter" video games with introducing him to Asian culture in a major pop cultural context during his childhood.

When the original directors dropped out, Sakurai stepped in and fought to secure the project. He connected with the movie's heart – the sibling rivalry between Ryu (Koji) and Ken (Centineo) – and brought a gonzo tone and a 1990s aesthetic to the adaptation. Sakurai envisioned the film as an ensemble of characters who clash both inside and outside the arena, creating a sense of cultural energy that reflects the chaotic spirit of the game.

A standout feature of "Street Fighter" is its extensive use of traditional 2D animation in the style of Japanese anime. This creative choice was a result of Sakurai's deep appreciation for anime's impact on his own childhood and the games he grew up playing. To achieve this distinctive look, the film featured flashbacks crafted by American animation studio Titmouse, creating a seamless blend between live-action and animated sequences.

By exploring anime as a flashback device, inspired by classic anime films like "Akira" and Quentin Tarantino's "Kill Bill," Sakurai brought a unique narrative element to the film, making it a truly memorable cinematic experience.