#Japan #Tokyo #SSFF & ASIA #Rina Ikoma #Yasuhiko Hayase

Event Report: Exploring the Boundaries of Horror and Pleasure at SSFF & ASIA 2025

On May 30, the Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia (SSFF & ASIA) held a significant event titled 'The Boundary of Fear and Pleasure: Screening & Talk Event' at Omotesando Hills Space O. This year marks a milestone as the festival introduces its first-ever 'Horror & Suspense category,' in collaboration with the Creative Guardian (CRG). The event featured prominent guests, horror enthusiast actress Rina Ikoma and popular YouTuber Yasuhiko Hayase from the Urban Boys.

Rina Ikoma, well-known for her passion for horror, shared her emotional experiences, especially about a film that moved her to tears. The event showcased four nominated films for the 'Most Frightening Award supported by CRG,' focusing on the most uniquely terrifying works. The finalists included: 'Nasu no Ushi' by director Chavo, 'Shooting/Shinichi Kaburagi' by director Riisa Naka, 'ABYSS' by director Tekkou Nogami, and 'Twitter' by director Yoshinobu Nakamura.

During the talk session, Hayase brought along some cursed objects, prompting a captivating dialogue with Ikoma about the charm of horror and suspense in short films. The panel, which included CRG's representatives, discussed the nominees and their creative backgrounds with insightful commentary and laughter.

Highlights from the Films

'Nasu no Ushi'

This film vividly illustrates the thin line between life and death, showcasing the perception of reality through its protagonist's eyes, who grapples with schizophrenia. Producer Tetsuo Fukumoto expressed his admiration for the film’s unique approach, particularly its color palette and sound design, which deeply immerse viewers into its world.
Chavo, the director, elaborated on his inspirations, revealing that the narrative style aims to spark curiosity about the story after watching. He draws from personal experiences, expressing a fascinating insight into human emotions and psychological struggles within the horror genre.

'ABYSS'

This narrative blurs the lines between pure love and criminality, centered around three characters involved in a sinister act. The film's gripping climax invites the audience to reflect on the complex motives behind their actions. Director Tekkou Nogami highlighted how local legends influenced the creation of the film, revealing a desire to explore the unsettling feelings of humanity.
Ikoma and Hayase resonated with this idea, sharing personal anecdotes about human relationships and emotional depth portrayed in cinema.

'Shooting/Shinichi Kaburagi'

Produced by Riisa Naka, this film provides a dual perspective on the horror of being in front of the camera and behind it. Ikoma praised the film for its empathetic representation of both actors and cinematographers, calling it a thoughtful exploration of the pressures within the entertainment industry.

'Twitter'

Lastly, Nakamura's brief yet impactful horror piece resonates with the modern-day fears associated with social media. Both Ikoma and Hayase enjoyed the film's clever storytelling, which connects past and present online interactions, providing insights into the uncanny nature of digital presence.

Each of the films presented poignant themes along with horror elements, giving viewers a cherished experience of fear intertwined with creative storytelling.

Conclusion

The evening concluded with a sense of excitement as the winners of the 'Most Frightening Award supported by CRG' are to be announced during the award ceremony on June 11. This year, the nominated films and the horror program will be streamed through the Online Grand Theater until that date, inviting everyone to explore the boundary where fear meets creativity further.