Koji Shiraishi, a renowned Japanese film director, hails from Fukuoka, Japan, where he spent his formative years immersed in the rich cultural heritage of his native land.
As a young individual, Shiraishi pursued his academic aspirations at Kyushu Sangyo University, where he earned a degree in filmmaking, laying the foundation for his future endeavors in the cinematic world.
Upon completing his academic pursuits, Shiraishi joined the film industry as an assistant director, working alongside esteemed filmmakers such as Gakuryū Ishii on the notable project "August in the Water", and Shinobu Yaguchi on the critically acclaimed film "WATER BOYS", honing his skills and gaining valuable experience in the process.
Shiraishi frequently references Gakuryū Ishii as his most revered Japanese film director, with Ishii's 1980 cinematic masterpiece, Crazy Thunder Road, holding a profound and sentimental significance in his heart. His admiration for international filmmakers extends to a diverse array of acclaimed directors, including the influential John Carpenter, the masterful Brian De Palma, the visionary Abbas Kiarostami, and the innovative Sam Raimi.