Keizo Murase, a legendary sculptor known for his work in iconic special effects films like Godzilla, Gamera, and Daimajin, passed away on October 14th due to decompensated liver cirrhosis. He was 89 years old. United Entertainment announced on the 17th that a private funeral service will be held later this month for close family and friends.

Born in Ikeda, Hokkaido in 1935, Murase began his career in the film industry in 1958, working on various Toho productions. He made his debut as an assistant sculptor on the 1958 film Varan the Unbelievable and subsequently contributed to major productions such as Mothra (1961), King Kong vs. Godzilla (1962), and Matango (1963). After gaining recognition for his work, Murase went independent and worked on popular television series like Barom One, Ultraman Ace, and Android Kikaider.

In his later years, Murase expanded his expertise beyond films and TV shows to include commercials, stage productions, and other forms of art. His immense contributions to the field were honored with the Agency for Cultural Affairs Film Award in 2021, and earlier this year, he received the Special Award from the Japan Academy at the 47th annual Japan Academy Prize ceremony.

Murase was hospitalized in March 2023 after suffering from hepatic encephalopathy, and although he recovered for a time, he experienced a relapse in July. After 99 days of hospitalization, he passed away peacefully.

Murase’s most recent work was as the director of the tokusatsu film Brush of the God (Kami no Fude: Island of the Monsters), his first directorial project based on a long-cherished concept. The film, which was released nationwide at Toho Cinemas Hibiya and other theaters in July 2023, continues to be screened. Although Murase was unable to attend the pre-release event in Hibiya due to his health, he made an appearance in a wheelchair at a screening in his hometown at the Aeon Cinema Musashimurayama on September 1st, where he shared his thoughts about the film with a smile.

Source : ORICON NEWS