Obayashi was born on the 9th of January 1938 in the city of Onomichi. He was the eldest son of a father who was one in a long paternal line of medical doctors, and indeed began studying medicine before deciding to pursue an artistic career. He has directed 41 films as well as edited, composed music and written 14 films himself. He was given the nickname "OB" in the 70s, when he was directing some commercials with Kirk Douglas and Charles Bronson. They had difficulty with his last name, so they shortened it to "OB." He is well known as a "TV talent" (guest celebrity) on Japanese talk shows, game shows, and commercials.

To learn more about Nobuhiko Obayashi and see his numerous film credits, CLICK HERE.