Ithra hosts screening of Japanese indie horror hit

Arab News

05-02-2025

DHAHRAN: As a part of Japan Cultural Days in Dhahran, the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, Ithra, recently hosted a special screening of the 2017 film 'One Cut of the Dead.'
It was followed by an exclusive Q&A with director Shinichiro Ueda.
'One key point is that this film was created as part of an acting workshop we conducted, and then we made a film with the participants,' Ueda told the crowd.
'As a result, there were no casting costs. We also assembled a strong team from within the workshop, which helped keep the budget low,' he said.
The event gave audiences a rare opportunity to explore the film's creative process, behind-the-scenes secrets, and the journey that turned this indie film into an international phenomenon.
'For the protagonist's house, we used my own home, and as for the baby … that was my own child."
'Yes, 'One Cut of the Dead' was indeed shot in one continuous take,' he confirmed, earning applause from the audience.
At first glance, it seems like a typical horror movie — a film crew shooting a bloody zombie film in an abandoned location, complete with exaggerated movements and endless screams — only to find themselves caught in a real zombie outbreak.
Chaos ensues as they struggle to survive, all while the cameras keep rolling. However, nothing is as it seems.
Before the screening, audiences at Ithra were advised not to be deterred by the seemingly chaotic and confusing beginning.
'You will be rewarded after the first 40 minutes, and it will all make sense,' an announcement assured viewers before the 96-minute film began.
The film's innovative structure and execution have made it a favorite among directors who appreciate smart and unconventional filmmaking. American filmmaker and actor Quentin Tarantino called it one of his favorite films of the year.
Edgar Wright, director of 'Shaun of the Dead,' highlighted its clever storytelling, and Rian Johnson, director of 'Knives Out' and 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi,' praised its creativity.
For the discussion, Ueda wore a Saudi thobe and shemagh, joining several of the film's actors, along with a moderator and translator.
They explored how the film defied genre conventions, blending horror and comedy with an inventive storytelling structure that surprised audiences worldwide.
The film won multiple honors, including the Audience Award at the Yubari International Fantastic Film Festival and Best Director at the Fantaspoa International Fantastic Film Festival.
Dammam resident Ahmed Albather shared his excitement with Arab News about finally watching the 2017 classic he had heard so much about.
'I heard about this screening and came specifically to watch it. The film is said to be one of the best Japanese indie zombie films of the last decade, if not longer. I love Japanese movies, so I had to come,' Albather said.
'This is my first visit to Ithra's Japan Cultural Days, and I am really impressed by it and how they brought the director to talk to us here,' he added.
The film is being showcased in its original Japanese with Arabic and English subtitles.
For those who missed the event, 'One Cut of the Dead' will have another screening at Ithra Cinema on Feb. 7 at 7:30 p.m., without the director's talk.
Tickets can be purchased through the Ithra website or at the venue.