New Studio Adapts Japanese Stories for West

Yasuo Matsuo, founder of Cloverway, has launched IP Bay, a new global studio dedicated to adapting Japanese literary properties for Western screens. The company is making its market debut at the Cannes Film Market, where Japan is the 2026 Country of Honor. IP Bay's structure features operating teams embedded on both the Pacific coasts, with Japan-based staff working directly with publishers and authors, and a Hollywood team managing packaging, financing, and production. This dual-coast approach aims to improve publisher engagement and protect the integrity of the source material.

IP Bay's strategy centers on keeping authors at the core of every adaptation decision, a response to previous international projects that alienated fans and publishers. The studio seeks to build trust and ensure that adaptations are faithful enough to satisfy existing fans and attract new audiences. By operating as a Japan-incorporated entity, IP Bay also provides access to Japan's 50% production cash rebate for its Hollywood partners. Projects in development span various genres including romance, drama, horror, action, and fantasy.