‘A game adaptation done brilliantly’
Exit 8, directed by Genki Kawamura, was screened at the 2026 Manchester Film Festival, drawing a packed audience to the Odeon Great Northern on Tuesday 24th March. The film first premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2025 and marks Yokohomo-born director’s third feature following Monster (2023) and Weathering with You (2019).
Inspired by the indie adventure game of the same name, Exit 8 vividly brings to life the monotony and chaos that fans will instantly recognise. With the familiar blend of horror and psychological tension, audiences feel as though they have stepped back into the game. At its core, Exit 8 is a spot the difference game, where players look for anomalies in a Japanese subway setting. Many of the anomalies and characters are faithfull adapted from the game to screen, offering plenty for fans to enjoy.
The film offers a glimpse into everyday life of a salaryman – a worker just trying to get by, absorbed in his own routine and worries. An unexpected phone call brings life-altering news and just like that, our main character, Kazunari Ninomiya, is in a game he did not expect to be playing. Delivering a stellar performance, he leads you through a series of challenges meeting several unhinged characters along the way, each trapped in their own game of life’s struggles.
At times, the film moves at a slow pace. This seems like a deliberate attempt to illustrate the repetition of everyday life. For fans of fantasy world, this lingering will likely be welcome to stay immersed for longer.
The film’s deliberately simple set repeated throughout scenes is a welcome thread in an otherwise chaotic story. The set acts as the foundation across all changing environments, keeping audiences engaged as they look for differences. The sound and sound design were impressive, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats during tense moments.
Showcasing 52 feature films, including nine UK premieres and eight world premieres, catch the Manchester Film Festival until 29th March. Tickets are available here.