Program Note
Set in 1635, 35 years after the Battle of Sekigahara, Japan appears peaceful. But a monstrous creature called 'Gun-kyo' that devours humans disrupts this calm. The shogunate burns down villages where Gun-kyo appears to hide the truth. Orin, a former ninja living quietly with her stepdaughter, is drawn back into battle after encountering Gun-kyo while seeking medicine. Meanwhile, Shiro, a Gun-kyo who retains human consciousness, sets out to uncover his origins and the creature's secret. Blending historical setting with genre imagination, this series heightens Japan's mysterious atmosphere through the unique Gun-kyo creature. Ninja and samurai action scenes provide thrilling highlights. The first two episodes of this six-part series premiere at the festival, alongside XR content expanding the universe. (Martin LEE)