It’s no secret that Quentin Tarantino wears his influences on his sleeve when making a film. Some would argue that his films aren’t just homages to his inspirations but sometimes verge on, um, “borrowing” from them. And one area of film that is his most revered is clearly Japanese cinema. So, it makes sense that he would mention a modern classic Japanese film when asked what movie he wishes he would have directed.
In a recent interview on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” (guest-hosted by Dana Carvey), Quentin Tarantino was asked which film did he watch and wished he was the one to direct it? After thinking for a few seconds, his response came easily.
“I’m a big fan of the Japanese movie ‘Battle Royale,’ which is what ‘Hunger Games’ was based on,” Tarantino explained. “Well, ‘Hunger Games’ just ripped it off. That would have been awesome to have directed ‘Battle Royale.’”
For those unfamiliar, Tarantino’s not wrong with saying “Battle Royale” is the inspiration for “The Hunger Games.” Directed by Kinji Fukasaku, the 2000 film, “Battle Royale,” tells the story of a group of young teens who are chosen by the government to compete against each other in a battle to the death on a deserted island. Each kid is given a backpack of supplies and one weapon. The last child who survives is the winner and is treated like a celebrity back home. Yes, this sounds an awful lot like “The Hunger Games,” and it’s clear that the franchise borrowed heavily from the Japanese source material.
This isn’t the first time Tarantino has paid homage to his love of “Battle Royale.” His 2003 film, “Kill Bill Vol. 1,” featured actress Chiaki Kuriyama in the cast. Kuriyama broke out after her supporting role in “Battle Royale.” And she is given a memorable role as Gogo in ‘Kill Bill.’
You can watch the interview with Tarantino below: