Shadow of Fire

Directed by Shinya Tsukamoto
Starring Shuri, Mirai Moriyama, Oga Tsukao, Hiroki Kono

Amid the scorching aftermath of World War II, Tokyo lies in ruins, and its survivors grapple with unimaginable challenges. In this unforgiving reality, a young war orphan (Oga Tsukao) sneaks into a local tavern-turned-brothel, where a destitute woman (Shuri) sells her body to make a living. Soon, their interaction ignites a faint glimmer of hope.

They all need to survive, including the small child, by making ends meet. The woman begs the orphan boy not to steal or involve himself in dangerous business, but one day, he decides to follow a vendor (Mirai Moriyama) with dark intentions…

Shadow of Fire transcends the war genre, exploring human principles and tragedy under extreme conditions. It marks Shinya Tsukamoto’s second feature war film, capturing human emotions with meticulous realism and tension. Acclaimed since his theatrical debut with Tetsuo: The Iron Man (1989), Shinya Tsukamoto continues to influence creators worldwide. Shadow of Fire earned the Best Asian Film Award at the 2023 Venice Film Festival, demonstrating its edgy and cinematically stylish storytelling.