Exciting Premiere Announcement for 'Gorilla Hall'
The cinematic world is abuzz as the movie 'Gorilla Hall', directed and written by Koji Uehara, is set to be released on February 27, 2026, at two major locations: Kino Cinema Shinjuku and Kino Cinema Shinsaibashi. This film is being promoted and cast by PIF, a company based in Osaka, and is generating a wave of excitement following its successful pre-screening events.
Background and Key Details
This movie marks the acting debut of AIK, a prominent singer based in the Kansai region. It intertwines the fields of music and film, featuring music by Kj of Dragon Ash and The Ravens, with renowned advisor Kyosuke Yabe contributing his expertise to the project. The film will explore the dreams and struggles of young musicians, delivering a heartfelt narrative.
Official Release Details
- - Release Date: February 27, 2026 (Friday)
- - Theaters:
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Kino Cinema Shinjuku
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Kino Cinema Shinsaibashi
The specifics of any stage greetings and screening times will be announced in due course through the official website and social media.
Success of Pre-screenings
The initial screenings in Tokyo's Human Trust Cinema Shibuya and T-JOY Umeda, as well as Kino Cinema Shinsaibashi, have been met with overwhelming enthusiasm. Audience members praised the film, stating things like, "The depiction of music is incredibly realistic," and, "I felt as though I was actually at a live concert." The atmosphere reached new heights when NAOKI from the band 10-FEET attended a final pre-screening, sharing his thoughts on the film's musical authenticity. His involvement added an electrifying energy that resonated throughout the audience.
Special Screening Materials
Ahead of the official release, moviegoers will have the chance to purchase an official pamphlet at the theaters for 1,000 yen (excluding tax).
This pamphlet will contain:
- - Insights into the film's production and interviews with the cast and crew.
- - A special dialogue between Kj and Director Koji Uehara.
- - Original lyrics from the in-film band 'GIRL TALKING ABOUT LOVE'.
- - Location map of shooting sites.
- - Behind-the-scenes photos and much more, encapsulating the film's vibrant world.
Synopsis of 'Gorilla Hall'
Set against the backdrop of the 'Gorilla Hall' live house in Osaka, the story follows Asako (AIK), who balances working at the venue while pursuing her band ambitions. As the lead vocalist of 'GIRL TALKING ABOUT LOVE', she navigates her dreams and the harsh realities of life. In contrast, her boyfriend Kaito (Koma Arashi) sees his band ascend to fame. Following an audition by a major label, Asako finds herself confronting her true feelings and aspirations. This coming-of-age tale poignantly depicts the growth of youth intertwined with the power of music.
Watch the Trailer:
Main Cast and Crew
- - Starring: AIK, Koma Arashi, Kyoko Matsushita, Ruu, Moriwo, Mitsuki Moriyama, Iori Abe, Tomokazu Yamaguchi, Yumi Kurotani, Ayumi Ito, Shinta Furuta, and more.
- - Music by: Kj (Dragon Ash / The Ravens)
- - Executive Advisor: Kyosuke Yabe
- - Directed and Written by: Koji Uehara
- - Production Companies: Film 'Gorilla Hall' Production Committee (Includes Nakamura Toshiya / BABYOWL / Hulk Entertainment / PIF / Ash Co.)
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About Gorilla Hall Osaka
'Gorilla Hall' is a large live venue themed around providing a 'great playground,' which opened in January 2023. It boasts a standing capacity of 1,300, designed to deliver both exhilarating live performances and an immersive experience of the venue itself. Inspired by European and American live houses, it features an innovative U-shaped two-level floor plan that is unmatched in Japan.
Location: 1-1-82 Izumi, Suminoe-ku, Osaka (within SPORTS VILLAGE SUMINOE)
8-minute walk from Suminoekoen Station, Exit 2, on the Osaka Metro Yotsubashi Line.
Contact: 06-6690-7771