XYZ Films has secured worldwide sales rights for the supernatural horror film "Never After Dark"—excluding Japan. This acquisition was announced during the Cannes market, marking a significant milestone for the Tokyo-based production company Signal181, which recently completed filming on the project.
XYZ Films continues to expand its presence in the global genre market by executive producing and handling international sales for this chilling Japanese-language horror film. Executive producers Todd Brown and Aram Tertzakian of XYZ Films bring their expertise to ensure the film resonates with audiences worldwide.
The film stars Critic’s Choice Award winner Moeka Hoshi ("Shōgun") as a medium who embarks on what appears to be a routine exorcism in the remote Japanese countryside. However, her journey takes a dark turn when she encounters her most terrifying adversary yet: the living. Her performance promises to deliver a haunting portrayal of courage and vulnerability amidst unimaginable fear.
"Never After Dark" reunites the creative duo of producer Kento Kaku and director Dave Boyle, whose collaboration resulted in the 2024 Netflix sensation "House of Ninjas." Formed in 2024, Signal181 marks its debut with this ambitious project, showcasing the team's commitment to crafting compelling narratives that captivate global audiences.
Filmed on location amidst the breathtaking landscapes of rural Japan, the movie boasts stunning production design and practical effects crafted by some of Japan's foremost artisans. Written and directed by Boyle, the film is produced by Boyle, Kaku, and Signal181. Currently in post-production, it is slated for a wide theatrical release in Japan in 2026, promising an immersive experience for horror enthusiasts.
Kento Kaku, a luminary in Japan's entertainment industry and a leading commercial pitchman, made his producing debut with "House of Ninjas," where he also starred and co-wrote the original story. Director Dave Boyle, known for his critically acclaimed neo-noir "Man From Reno," nominated for the John Cassavetes Award at the 30th Film Independent Spirit Awards, brings his signature style to "Never After Dark." Kosuke Tsutsumi, co-founder and CEO of Signal181, further solidifies the company's reputation for excellence in storytelling and production.
This acquisition enriches XYZ Films' roster of upcoming titles, including the SXSW standout thriller "Hallow Road," directed by Babak Anvari and starring Rosamund Pike and Matthew Rhys; "The Trip," featuring Jason Segel, Samara Weaving, Juliette Lewis, and Timothy Olyphant, currently in post-production; "Havoc," directed by Gareth Evans and starring Tom Hardy and Forrest Whitaker, which premiered on Netflix in April; the true-story exorcism thriller "The Ritual," starring Al Pacino and Dan Stevens, set for a summer release; and Miley Cyrus' latest visual album, "Something Beautiful."
With each new addition to its slate, XYZ Films cements its position as a trailblazer in the international film landscape, delivering stories that resonate deeply with diverse audiences across the globe.
