A horror and dark genre film festival, the Yami International Film Festival, will hold its inaugural edition Nov. 20–26 at Human Trust Cinema Shibuya in Tokyo, organizers revealed at Cannes.
The festival, organized by Japan-based horror entertainment company Yami Inc., will run two competitive sections – feature film competition and short film competition – with prizes including best film, audience award, and additional honors. Winners will receive cash prizes and official trophies. Submissions open May 27 via FilmFreeway.
The festival takes its name from the Japanese word for “darkness” and carries the tagline “Darkness Makes the World Known.” Jury members are to be announced; the roster will draw from filmmakers, actors, and creators working across Japan and internationally.
Yami Inc. has built its profile through a blend of AI-driven digital projects, gaming initiatives, and immersive “analysis-based exhibitions,” among them “Did You Read That Ominous Letter?”, “A Missing Exhibition,” and “The Fear Exhibition.” The festival represents the company’s entry into the film industry.
Producer Wada Arihiro, whose credits include “Fujiko” and “Kaiju Guy,” will serve as festival director and programming director.
“The culture of portraying fear is something Japan has cultivated and refined over time, and many remarkable films have emerged from this country. Our mission is to satisfy global curiosity through the idea that ‘fear is fun.’ Through cinema, we aim to create a platform that introduces the forefront of new horror being created around the world. Shibuya, Tokyo will become a place where audiences can encounter the next wave of horror. We look forward to welcoming you,” Wada said.
