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A Unique Cinematic Experience on the Move: TAXIATER Festival

Tokyo is about to introduce a groundbreaking cinematic experience with the launch of its first-ever Taxi Film Festival, known as TAXIATER. This festival aims to transform the ordinary taxi ride into a mobile cinema, inviting passengers to enjoy exclusive short films created by a talented team of industry professionals. The festival, scheduled to take place from August 3 to 31, 2026, coincides with National Taxi Day on August 5, and showcases this unique cultural program amidst the bustling streets of Tokyo's 23 wards.

What is TAXIATER?

TAXIATER is not your typical film festival; it redefines the concept of film-viewing by taking it on the road. In collaboration with 100 taxis throughout Tokyo, this innovative project utilizes cutting-edge signage media to stream original short films created specifically for this festival. The films will be displayed exclusively within the taxis, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the cinematic experience as they travel. TAXIATER strives to engage audiences in a new form of entertainment, making every taxi ride an unforgettable journey.

Acclaimed Creative Team

The festival is backed by an impressive lineup of acclaimed filmmakers and producers, including:

• - Ryutaro Nakagawa, known for his works such as Run, Don't Get Caught by Despair and winner of awards at the Tokyo International Film Festival.
• - Akihisa Yamamoto, the producer behind the Oscar-nominated film Drive My Car.
• - Koki Goka, celebrated for his efforts in award-winning films like The Sweet Tide and productions across various genres.

These industry veterans are dedicated to crafting some of the most exquisite short films that will capture the attention of passengers, while also offering unique perspectives on life, movement, and experience.

Festival Themes and Content

The festival is built around the guiding theme, “LIFE IS MOVEMENTS.” The organizers believe that life itself is a continuous journey marked by moving from one place to another, much like film-going. The first installment of TAXIATER will comprise three short films, each created in partnership with significant sponsors, including Kao Corporation, which will feature their well-known laundry detergent 'Attack', softener 'Humming', and dish soap 'Kyu Kyu To'. The integration of brands into the films aims to create a fresh cinematic expression that resonates emotionally with viewers.

A New Advertising Approach

Kao’s involvement signifies a shift in advertising, merging traditional promotional strategies with creative content instead of conventional commercial formats. They hope to leave a lasting impression on audiences that will evoke emotions tied to their products even after the viewing ends.

Why Taxi Media?

With a staggering 42% coverage of the Tokyo taxi industry through the largest signage network, GROWTH, the TAXIATER festival harnesses the unique environment of taxis as a means for storytelling. Given the average fare ride duration of around 18 minutes, the setting becomes ideal for showcasing a short film. This forces passengers to engage with content, creating an unparalleled connection between the art of film and everyday travel.

Looking Ahead

With the anticipation building, TAXIATER promises to be a pioneering project in the realm of cinema and branding. The festival also plans to announce cast members and the theme song, which is expected to be available on various music streaming services starting August 5, 2026. Events such as stage greetings, talks, and other surprises are also planned for film premieres.

Join us as we await this extraordinary festival, where every taxi ride transforms into a cultural adventure. Stay tuned for updates on this refreshing initiative set to redefine how films are experienced in a vibrant metropolis like Tokyo.

For more information, you can visit TAXIATER’s official social media pages:

• - X
• - Instagram

Company Background

ENGINE Co., established in December 2025, specializes in music and film production, aiming to foster innovative solutions to social issues through creative storytelling.