Hideyuki Hirayama (平山秀幸) is a Japanese director. He was born on 18th September 1950 in Kitakyushu, Japan. Hideyuki Hirayama career began with his theatrical debut Maria’s Stomach in 1990. He quickly gained recognition for his talent, winning the Directors Guild of Japan New Directors Award in 1992 for The Games Teachers Play. Hirayama’s unique storytelling style and his ability to blend drama with social themes set him apart early in his career.

In 1995, Hirayama directed School Ghost Stories, which became a major hit in Japan and led to a successful series. His 1998 film Begging for Love marked a high point in his career, earning international acclaim. The film received the International Press Award (FIPRESCI) at the Montreal World Film Festival and was honored with several domestic accolades, including the Japan Academy Prize for Director of the Year and the Mainichi Film Award for Best Director. These achievements solidified his reputation as one of Japan’s leading filmmakers.

Hirayama continued to make an impact in the early 2000s. In 2001, he was awarded Best Director at the Puchon International Fantastic Film Festival for his work on Turn, a psychological drama that showcased his versatility as a filmmaker. His acclaimed direction continued with The Laughing Frog and Out, both of which earned him the Best Director award at the 2003 Yokohama Film Festival.

Throughout his career, Hideyuki Hirayama has consistently delivered compelling narratives across various genres, earning critical acclaim both domestically and internationally for his contributions to Japanese cinema.