Shudder has officially acquired the distribution rights for New Group, the chilling second feature film from director Yûta Shimotsu. Written with co-writer Momoko Sahara, the Japanese horror title premieres on the streaming platform this November. It features a strong ensemble cast, including Anna Yamada, Yuzu Aoki, and Pierre Taki.
A Terrifying Cult Mentality
The story follows high school student Ai as her everyday world collapses around her. A strange cult-like mentality rapidly infects the local community, turning normal citizens into mindless, obedient followers. As a result, these possessed individuals turn simple gymnastics routines into a nightmarish, fatal dance of death.
Behind the Filmmaker
Director Yûta Shimotsu originally studied mechanical engineering before transitioning into commercial and short film directing. His 2020 short film provided the foundation for his acclaimed feature debut, Best Wishes to All. Expanding on that success, New Group recently screened at major international events including the Fantasia International Film Festival and Sitges.
Key Production Details
Tsuyoshi Kobayashi and Shinya Himda produced the eighty-two-minute Japanese feature. Cinematographer Toru Nishioka captured the film’s eerie visual aesthetic. Fans of international genre cinema can stream New Group exclusively on Shudder starting November 6th.
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