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The Invisibles Wins Prestigious Award

The film "The Invisibles" has achieved significant recognition at the 30th Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFAN), winning the coveted Children's Fantastic Choice Award. This award, presented on July 9, 2026, was determined by a panel of child judges comprising of local elementary students from Bucheon, South Korea, who reviewed all family-friendly films at the festival. The screening of this touching movie took place on July 5, 2026, marking its world premiere.

Directed by Ryo Takebayashi and written by Saeri Natsuki, "The Invisibles" revolves around a unique concept—a daughter born as an invisible human—exploring profound familial conflicts and connections. The film portrays how families understand and support one another, even when faced with surreal challenges.

During the award ceremony, key members of the film's staff, including director Ryo Takebayashi and producer Fumika Fukuda, were present to receive the award, which is a testament to the movie's emotional depth and artistic merit. The reactions from the audience during the world premiere were overwhelmingly positive, as moments of laughter and heartfelt connection unfolded on-screen, creating an engaging atmosphere.

Details of the Award and Screening

"The Invisibles" was screened as part of the Fanta-scape division of BIFAN, which highlights films that inspire audiences and celebrate creativity. The children's jury selected this film for the award due to its exceptional storytelling and emotional resonance. The movie will be released nationwide in Japan on August 28, 2026.

Opening Ceremony Highlights

The opening ceremony on July 2 featured significant cast members, including Katsuya Maikuma, who plays the lead character Manabu Hoshino, and actresses Hana Kondo and Hina Yamanaka, portraying the daughters of the protagonist. They walked the red carpet alongside Hikari's trademark yellow suitcase, a playful yet poignant symbol from the film.

During the world premiere, the audience found themselves drawn into the narrative as scenes featuring Hikari's 'I'm here!' button elicited laughter and engagement, showcasing the film’s ability to connect with viewers on both an emotional and entertaining level.

After the screening, the cast and crew participated in a Q&A session, further deepening the audience's understanding of the film. The enthusiastic turnout for autographs and photos indicated a growing excitement and interest in the film's release.

Cast and Crew Reflections

Lead actor Katsuya Maikuma expressed deep gratitude towards the children's jury in Korea for selecting their film, stating, “I believe the films we cherished as children remain with us forever, shaping our sensibilities. I hope 'The Invisibles' becomes a film that resonates with others in the same way.”

Director Ryo Takebayashi remarked on the warm atmosphere at the festival, sharing his joy in receiving recognition from the children’s jury, emphasizing how meaningful it is for their movie to be appreciated in such a unique way. Screenwriter Saeri Natsuki reflected on the magical experience of the premiere and the heartfelt responses from the audience, illustrating her gratitude for the project and its reception.

About BIFAN

The Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival, which opened in 1997, is recognized as one of the largest film festivals in Asia and celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2026. Known for screening a wide array of genre films, including sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and more, BIFAN has established itself as a premier event celebrating cinematic creativity from around the globe. It stands alongside other major South Korean film festivals, such as the Busan International Film Festival and Jeonju International Film Festival.

Conclusion

As anticipation builds for the national release of "The Invisibles" on August 28, 2026, its recent accolades at BIFAN signal not only a victory for the film’s team but also promise a moving experience for audiences. The blend of fantasy and familial themes positions this film as a noteworthy addition to contemporary cinema, ready to captivate viewers of all ages.