In an exciting development for fans of indie gaming and cinema alike, the live-action adaptation of the popular game "Exit 8" is set to hit theaters in Japan on August 29, 2025. The film, directed by Genki Kawamura, will star Kazuya Ninomiya as the "lost man" navigating the eerie underground passages of the game.
Originally released on Steam on November 29, 2023, "Exit 8" quickly became a sensation, garnering over 1.5 million downloads worldwide. The game challenges players to escape from an endless loop of underground passages while encountering various anomalies. Players must heed specific rules during their journey: "Don’t overlook anomalies," "If you find an anomaly, immediately turn back," "If you don’t find an anomaly, don’t turn back," and "Exit from Exit 8." These guidelines are crucial for players trying to find their way out.
The film adaptation was first announced on December 27, 2024, and has since generated considerable buzz. The latest updates reveal that Ninomiya will portray a nameless protagonist—a first for the seasoned actor. His character is described as a man lost in the underground maze, struggling against the chaos of his surroundings.
In a recently released trailer, viewers can catch glimpses of Ninomiya’s character grappling with various unsettling anomalies. The trailer also hints at a narrative that diverges from the original game, introducing new story elements while maintaining the core theme of survival amidst confusion and fear.
Daiwa Kawauchi will play the role of the "walking man," a character that has already piqued interest following his reveal in a suit last December. This marks a second collaboration between Kawauchi and Ninomiya, who previously appeared together in the TBS drama "VIVANT" in 2023.
Director Genki Kawamura is a well-regarded figure in the industry, known for his work on both live-action and animated films, including the acclaimed "Your Name." and "Confessions." This project marks his second time directing a feature film, following his debut with "百花" (Hyakka), which won him the Best Director award at the 70th San Sebastián International Film Festival.
Kawamura expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "When I encountered 'Exit 8,' I was thrilled to see a creation that could compete globally as a Japanese invention. But what kind of movie will it become? In my extensive career, I have never encountered a work where I had so little idea of how it would turn out. However, that uncertainty is precisely the kind of entertainment I want to experience in theaters, and I aspire to create a film that embodies that spirit."
Ninomiya also shared his excitement about working with Kawamura, saying, "I was thrilled to be invited to participate in this project, as I have long wanted to collaborate with Kawamura. This work is challenging to articulate, but I hope everyone can see our dedication to every second of it soon. Please be careful of the anomalies, and I pray you all can leave the theater safely."
The film's promotional materials, including a striking poster featuring a large number "8" and Ninomiya's intense expression, have sparked curiosity about the nature of the anomalies his character will face. The tagline, "Exit from Exit 8," raises questions about whether the lost man will manage to escape the underground labyrinth.
International sales for the film have already commenced at the Berlin Film Festival's film market, with screenings confirmed in over 15 countries and regions, indicating a strong global interest in the adaptation. Fans are eager to see how the film interprets the game's unique premise, which has captivated audiences both in Japan and abroad.
As the release date approaches, anticipation continues to build for "Exit 8," which promises to deliver a thrilling cinematic experience rooted in the original game’s suspenseful and eerie atmosphere. With Ninomiya's compelling performance and Kawamura's visionary direction, the film is poised to be a significant addition to the landscape of Japanese cinema.
For more updates, fans can visit the official website at exit8-movie.toho.co.jp.
