Akira Nagai (永井聡) is a Japanese director and screenwriter, His also known as Nagai Akira, He was born on 31st July 1970 in Higashimurayama, Tokyo, Japan. Before making his mark in feature films, Akira Nagai began his career directing commercials and music videos, where his sharp eye for aesthetics and rhythm quickly drew attention. His transition to film was met with great success, beginning with the satirical comedy Judge! (2014), which cleverly explored the advertising industry’s absurdities. The film showcased his talent for blending social commentary with entertainment, establishing him as a fresh voice in Japanese cinema.

Akira Nagai continued to impress audiences and critics alike with If Cats Disappeared From the World (2016), a poignant fantasy drama that examined life, loss, and human connections. In 2017, he directed Teiichi’s Country, a stylish political satire set in an elite boys’ school, further demonstrating his versatility and flair for unique storytelling. Nagai’s adaptation of After the Rain (2018) was particularly praised for its emotional sensitivity and beautiful cinematography, cementing his reputation as a director capable of balancing subtle romance with visual grace.

Known For

Bakudan

In 2021, he directed Character, a dark psychological thriller that explored morality and artistic obsession. His upcoming film Bakudan (2025) continues to showcase his evolving mastery of complex narratives and rich emotional landscapes. Through his diverse body of work, Akira Nagai remains one of Japan’s most innovative and respected filmmakers.