The Japan Cuts Film Festival is returning to New York this July with a lineup that promises to excite fans of Japanese cinema. Among the anticipated screenings are the North American theatrical premiere of Gridman Universe and the world premiere of the live-action film adaptation of Jun Mayuzuki’s Kowloon Generic Romance.
Japan Cuts Film Festival: A Celebration of Japanese Cinema
The Japan Cuts Film Festival, an annual event held at the Japan Society in New York City, is North America’s largest festival dedicated to contemporary Japanese cinema. This year, the festival will run from July 10th to 20th, showcasing a diverse selection of films, from award-winning dramas to indie darlings and experimental works. With over 30 curated films, the festival offers a comprehensive snapshot of the Japanese film industry, highlighting both established and emerging talent.
Gridman Universe: A North American Premiere
Gridman Universe, a crossover film uniting the worlds of SSSS.GRIDMAN and SSSS.DYNAZENON, is set to make its North American theatrical debut at Japan Cuts. The film premiered in Japan in March 2023 and was a commercial success, achieving the highest per-screen average revenue for films screened in over 100 theaters during its opening weekend.
About Gridman Universe
Gridman Universe is a continuation of the Gridman series, which began with the 1993 tokusatsu show Denkou Choujin Gridman (Gridman the Hyper Agent). The anime adaptations, SSSS.GRIDMAN (2018) and SSSS.DYNAZENON (2021), have gained a dedicated following for their unique blend of mecha action, slice-of-life drama, and compelling characters.
The film’s story brings together the casts of both SSSS.GRIDMAN and SSSS.DYNAZENON, featuring:
- Yuuta Hibiki: The protagonist of SSSS.GRIDMAN, who merges with the Hyper Agent Gridman to fight against Kaiju. Voiced by Yuya Hirose.
- Rikka Takarada: A classmate of Yuuta and a key character in SSSS.GRIDMAN. Voiced by Yume Miyamoto.
- Yomogi Asanaka: The protagonist of SSSS.DYNAZENON. Voiced by Junya Enoki.
- Yume Minami: A mysterious girl and the central figure of SSSS.DYNAZENON. Voiced by Shion Wakayama.
Akira Amemiya returns to direct the film at Studio Trigger, with Keiichi Hasegawa handling the script, Masaru Sakamoto designing the characters, and Shiro Sagisu composing the music.
Screening Details
The North American theatrical premiere of Gridman Universe will take place on July 20th at 12:30 p.m.
Kowloon Generic Romance: A World Premiere
The live-action adaptation of Jun Mayuzuki’s popular manga, Kowloon Generic Romance, is set to have its world premiere at Japan Cuts. The film is based on the manga series of the same name, which is a mystery love romance set in the nostalgic and labyrinthine Kowloon Walled City.
About Kowloon Generic Romance
Kowloon Generic Romance is a manga series written and illustrated by Jun Mayuzuki. The manga is set in the fictionalized Kowloon Walled City, a densely populated and lawless area in Hong Kong’s past. The story revolves around Reiko Kujirai, a real estate agent working in Kowloon, and her budding romance with her colleague, Hajime Kudō. As their relationship develops, they uncover the secrets of Kowloon and their own mysterious pasts.
The manga has been praised for its atmospheric setting, intricate plot, and well-developed characters. It has also been adapted into a TV anime series, which premiered in April 2025.
Cast and Crew
The live-action film stars:
- Riho Yoshioka as Reiko Kujirai, the protagonist.
- Kōshi Mizukami as Hajime Kudō, Reiko’s love interest.
- Ryō Ryūsei as Miyuki Hebinuma.
- Shuntarō Yanagi as Tao Guen.
Screening Details
The world premiere of the Kowloon Generic Romance live-action film will be held on July 13th at 12:30 p.m.
Other Highlights of Japan Cuts 2025
In addition to Gridman Universe and Kowloon Generic Romance, Japan Cuts 2025 promises a diverse and exciting lineup of films. The festival is known for showcasing a wide range of genres and styles, from mainstream hits to experimental and independent works.
Kiyoshi Kurosawa Films
Japan Cuts 2025 will feature four films by acclaimed director Kiyoshi Kurosawa, solidifying his status as one of Japan’s preeminent filmmakers.
Tadanobu Asano
The festival will also showcase films featuring the popular actor Tadanobu Asano.
Why Attend Japan Cuts?
Japan Cuts offers a unique opportunity to experience the best of contemporary Japanese cinema. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Japanese film or simply curious to explore a new cinematic landscape, the festival has something to offer everyone.
Here are just a few reasons to attend Japan Cuts:
- Discover new films: Japan Cuts is the perfect place to discover new and exciting Japanese films that you might not otherwise have the chance to see.
- See world premieres: Be among the first to see highly anticipated films like the live-action Kowloon Generic Romance.
- Experience diverse genres: From anime and action to drama and experimental films, Japan Cuts offers a wide range of genres to suit every taste.
- Support Japanese cinema: By attending Japan Cuts, you’re supporting the Japanese film industry and helping to bring Japanese films to a wider audience.
- Engage with fellow film lovers: Japan Cuts is a great place to meet and connect with other fans of Japanese cinema.
Getting Tickets and More Information
Tickets for Japan Cuts 2025 will be available for members starting June 3rd and for the general public starting June 10th. For more information about the festival, including the full lineup of films and schedule of events, please visit the Japan Society’s website.
In Conclusion
Japan Cuts 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable celebration of Japanese cinema. With the North American premiere of Gridman Universe and the world premiere of the live-action Kowloon Generic Romance, along with a diverse selection of other films, this year’s festival is a must-attend event for film lovers. Don’t miss your chance to experience the best of Japanese cinema in New York City this July.
