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HomeScreen Alchemist

Inside the magma chamber
Exit 8 japanese drama review
Completed
Exit 8
6 people found this review helpful
by HomeScreen Alchemist
Oct 21, 2025
Completed
Overall 10
Story 10.0
Acting/Cast 10.0
Music 7.5
Rewatch Value 8.0

Our life experience in this world condensed into a beautiful cinematic exhibition

This is my first review for MDL, so please be kind with me 😊

I stumbled upon this movie by chance, but I am very grateful to know that this "type" of movie exists. I know this is based on the video game "The Exit 8" but it is unlike any other movies based on games. This has lots of esoteric symbolism. Everything in this movie has a meaning. I mean, everything! Hidden in plain sight.

Cinematography and directing are tight and very interesting, to the point that we as the audience can feel that we are involved in finding the "anomalies" and making decisions (I found myself shouting "move ahead!", or "no! go back!") basically becoming part of the movie. We just don't watch passively. I'm not familiar with Genki Kawamura's other works (the director of this movie), but will be sure to check out more from him. Top-notch screenwriting as well.

The entire cast' acting is amazing, especially the main lead, Kazunari Ninomiya. It's one of his best performances. A cameo appearance by Nana Komatsu is also a welcome addition and perfect for the role (because she's now a mother, right?).

Now, what makes this movie perfect is not the production, but the hidden meaning behind all the esoteric symbolism, because it can help us in finding the realization. It is up to us to find the subtle clues by paying attention to the details of our surroundings, and then make meaningful connections (This poster represents one thing, that "walking man" represents another, the boy represents that, and so on and so forth).

Once we are able to make a connection about that whole experience of being "stuck in the loop" actually represents our life in this world, this movie can help us to exit this matrix. All we need to do is to keep moving and pay attention to our surroundings (see the signs, anomalies, glitches in the matrix, etc.), not get distracted by things this world offers — like things that are not essential or needed for our escape, also to persevere and be patient on our journey, and to not repeating the same pattern of mistakes again that can make us to regret. Those are the values brought up in the movie.

Simply said, this is ultimately the best movie in years. Of course, only "those who get it will get it, and those who don't won't", but even if you don't seem to get it, just pay attention and be patient in watching the movie (patience is required, as in living a life in this world) — then try to make a connection to your life. Your life may not be the same again.

Good luck in finding the exit!!

10/10
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