Makoto Hirano
Film Director. Creative Director.
Executive Producer. 

Makoto Hirano is a self‑taught storyteller with a global perspective, specializing in commercials and branded content. Born in Tokyo and raised in Egypt and the United States, he began his career in New York at DYR, where he immersed himself in film, theater, and photography. His work as a director took off in Sydney, where he collaborated with creative leaders such as David Droga and earned international recognition, including two Cannes Lions and a British D&AD. He later founded Beast Media, with studios in Tokyo, Los Angeles, and New York, creating original campaigns for brands such as Sony, Toshiba, and Godiva. Over six years and more than 30 commercials, his work played a key role in significantly increasing Godiva’s sales across multiple markets. Outside of advertising, his debut novel, The German Swimmer, a work of literary fiction, is represented by Susanna Lea Associates in London.