The MIRRORLIAR FILMS Season 7, a short film anthology project featuring a wide range of creative talent across major and indie platforms, is set to captivate audiences with its latest lineup. Among these highly anticipated works is SUNA, a mystery thriller directed by Shigeaki Kato, a member of NEWS and an acclaimed author.
In SUNA, Kato brings an unsettling tale of mystery to life, exploring the fragile line between reality and fear. As the director and co-lead, Kato weaves a narrative that challenges perceptions of right and wrong, using the motif of sand to destabilize the senses and evoke deep introspection. Ae! group’s Masakado Yoshinori takes on the role of the protagonist, bringing a raw humanity to the storyโs central character, Toyama.
Set in Tokai City, the story follows two detectives as they investigate a string of bizarre incidents where victims inexplicably suffocatedโburied entirely in sand. Detectives Sayama (played by Kato) and Toyama (played by Masakado) question whether these deaths are truly the work of human hands or something far more sinister.
As their investigation unfolds, the detectives encounter an enigmatic elderly woman, leading them deeper into the strange and sinister mystery.
As Toyama begins noticing unexplained traces of sand appearing in his own home, the investigation takes an even darker turn. The unsettling trailer features eerie imageryโflames engulfing Toyama, skeletal remains, and an ominous voice whispering, “They stole my sand.” With more victims succumbing to the mysterious sand, the detectives are left to wonder: Is this the result of a curse, or is there a hidden perpetrator orchestrating these gruesome events?
Kato describes the driving force behind SUNA as a desire to explore the difficulty of discerning right from wrong in an increasingly complex world. He reflects, “Something that exists in a place where it shouldn’t, or something that isn’t there when it should be, can be terrifying. The story, with its sand motif, aims to unsettle the senses. Perhaps my decision to create such a film stems from the daily realization of how challenging it is to judge what is right and wrong. Fearing the unseen may also be a fundamental part of being human.“
He credits Masakadoโs portrayal of Toyama as central to the filmโs emotional impact: “Masakado expressed human vulnerability in a way unique to him, distilling it into a raw and compelling performance. Thanks to him, and the incredible enthusiasm of the cast and crew, we achieved a level of tension in 15 minutes that feels far more expansive. I only hope that the sand doesn’t leave our viewers traumatized.“
For Masakado, participating in SUNA was a thrilling and transformative experience. Reflecting on the project, Masakado shared his excitement, “When I first heard about this project, I remember feeling incredibly excited. As an idol, itโs a rare and valuable opportunity to participate in such a production, and Iโm deeply grateful to have been part of this experience.“
This marks Masakadoโs second collaboration with Kato, the first being in a stage play written by Kato years agoโSen, shoku; ๆใ่ฒ. Masakado reminisced about his initial struggles during that project, recalling how Kato guided him through his early acting challenges. This time, Masakado approached SUNA with a determination to show how much he has grown.
“Back then, I barely had any acting experience, and I think I caused Kato-san some concern. Now, years later, being part of his project againโthis time under his directionโsparked a strong desire in me to show how much Iโve improved. I poured everything I could into my performance in front of the camera,” he commented with determination.
Masakado believes the film, despite its concise runtime, delivers a gripping and immersive mystery:
“Although itโs only 15 minutes long, itโs an incredibly dense and rich mystery. I hope everyone looks forward to watching it!“
Kato continues to demonstrate his versatility as an artist, seamlessly blending his skills as an author, actor, and now filmmaker. His collaboration with Masakado in SUNA exemplifies the emotional depth and compelling storytelling fans have come to expect from his work.
SUNA stands out not only for its compelling narrative but also as a testament to the artistic growth of its creators and cast. Katoโs creative direction, paired with Masakadoโs heartfelt performance, promises to leave audiences reflecting on the fragility of their perceptions and the unseen fears that shape their humanity.
The film will debut as part of the MIRRORLIAR FILMS Season 7 project, premiering in May at Human Trust Cinema Shibuya and select theaters nationwide. Whether youโre drawn by Katoโs intricate storytelling or Masakadoโs riveting portrayal, SUNA is a must-watch for anyone seeking a thought-provoking cinematic experience.
A Showcase of Diverse Creators
The MIRRORLIAR FILMS project, launched in 2020 by Chikara Ito, Shinnosuke Abe, and Takayuki Yamada, has been a platform for celebrated and emerging creators alike. To date, it has brought 47 short films to theaters, directed by actors, filmmakers, musicians, and even manga artists. With a mission to foster local collaboration and nurture talent, the project has contributed to regional revitalization across Japan.
Looking ahead, the initiative aims to expand its reach globally. In 2025, MIRRORLIAR FILMS will collaborate with the Global Stage Hollywood Film Festival to promote Japanese creators on an international platform, creating new opportunities for cultural exchange and recognition.
Other Notable Films in Season 7
The MIRRORLIAR FILMS Season 7 lineup features an eclectic mix of stories:
- Victims: The directorial debut of comedian and MC Koji Kato, this dark comedy stars Yuma Yamoto in a chaotic tale of a couple whose car becomes trapped in a tense parking altercation.
- Human Error: Actress-turned-director Ayari Katsuki presents a poignant exploration of a manโs life shaped and saved by artificial intelligence.
- Kutsuya: Directed by filmmaker and leader of the creative collective Chakko Juku, Seiji Takeda, this drama unravels the morally complex story of a novelist embroiled in criminal activity and the mysterious shoemaker he encounters.
- Wedding: Directed by NAACP Image Award nominee Sean Sakamoto, this thought-provoking film delves into the struggles of two fathers in a war-torn, near-future America.
Stay updated on the latest news from MIRRORLIAR FILMS through their official accounts!