They gave a standing ovation to Metro Exit 8 in Cannes

The Exit 8 , which entered the gaming world in 2023 under the banner of KOTAKE CREATE, is now preparing to meet audiences on the big screen. The liminal horror video game has been adapted for the big screen by Japanese cinema giant Toho Co., Ltd. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival on May 19, 2025, and garnered a huge following with an eight-minute standing ovation.

TRAILER RELEASED, RELEASE DATE ANNOUNCED

The trailer for the psychological thriller and surreal atmosphere has been released. The film is scheduled for a 2025 release in Japan and will be released in Turkey on August 29, 2025 .

Genki Kawamura, known for his work on films like Monster and Suzume , is in the director's chair. Kawamura is also producing the film, in addition to writing the script.

“IF YOU DON’T SEE IT, DON’T GO BACK”

The Exit 8 tells the story of "a man trapped in an endless and sterile subway passage and his search for an exit." The game's original warning text also sets the basic tone for the film:

"You are trapped in an endless underground passage. Observe your surroundings carefully to find The Exit 8. If you see any anomalies, turn back immediately. If you don't, don't turn back. Follow these rules to get out."

The cast is strong, the critics gave it full marks

The 95-minute film stars Kazunari Ninomiya, Yamato Kochi, Naru Asanuma, Kotone Hanase , and Nana Komatsu . The first eight reviews on Rotten Tomatoes are all positive.

EMOTIONAL STATEMENT FROM THE GAME'S CREATOR

The game's developer, Kotake Create, stated that he was surprised and grateful when he first heard that the film was being adapted:

"I never expected a game released in November 2023 to be turned into a film so quickly. I was curious how a game with no story could be turned into a screenplay. But the result is an impressive film that remains true to its atmosphere. I visited the filming set, and it was wonderful to see the old man and the subway passage in real size."

The game has been downloaded 1.4 million times

The Exit 8 , a successful example of the liminal horror genre, is currently available for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch , and PC . The game has been downloaded over 1.4 million times to date.