#Japan #Tokyo #Mahiro Takasugi #Tallinn Black Nights #Dog of Lies

'Dog of Lies' Shines Brightly at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival

The film 'Dog of Lies,' produced by Humax Entertainment and featuring Mahiro Takasugi in a leading role, has made waves on the international film circuit by winning the Cinematography Award at the renowned Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival. This festival, recognized as one of the top 15 film festivals worldwide, celebrated its recent edition from November 7, 2025.

A Story of Family and Truth

Derived from Haruna Teraji's novel of the same name, the film is directed by Yudai Morigaki, who skillfully weaves a narrative exploring the complexities of family dynamics. It embodies a poignant portrayal of a dysfunctional family confronting their untold truths over three decades. The film features a stellar cast, including Marika Ito, Asuka Fukagawa, and a mix of versatile talents like Yuko Ando and Akira Emoto, culminating in a heartfelt viewing experience.

Morigaki takes audiences on an emotional journey with the protagonist, Haneko Yamabuki (played by Takasugi), as they navigate familial hardships and personal revelations amidst a backdrop of layered narratives and beautifully interpreted cinematography.

Awards Ceremony Highlights

The film's recognition came after several enthusiastic screenings during the festival, where audience members lauded its stunning visuals and emotional depth. Comments such as “This is the best film I’ve seen this year,” and “It resonated deeply with me,” flooded in from viewers and film critics alike. Many described the experience as profoundly beautiful, evoking feelings that linger long after the film ends.

Cinematic Excellence

At the heart of the film's visual appeal is Yutaka Yamazaki, the legendary cinematographer known for his extensive work in the Japanese film industry. Yamazaki’s approach to capturing the gentle essence of Saga, the film’s shooting location, was commendably recognized by the festival jury. They praised his ability to harmonize meticulous composition with subtle camera work, artfully presenting the internal struggles of each character without exaggeration.

Morigaki's Reflection on the Win

Upon receiving the award, Morigaki expressed his delight, reflecting on the evolution of the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival into a platform that attracts top-tier directors from around the globe. He shared his gratitude towards Yamazaki, highlighting the invaluable discussions they had during filming regarding the cinematographic approach to the storytelling. “Having those moments of reflection at the end of each filming day with Yamazaki was truly precious,” he articulated, celebrating their successful collaboration.

Upcoming Release

As anticipation builds, 'Dog of Lies' is set to be released in theaters starting January 9, 2026. The film promises to continue its journey of resonating with audiences and engaging them with its captivating story. With such strong acclaim and recognition under its belt, audiences can look forward to a cinematic experience that transcends traditional storytelling.

Humax Entertainment Profile

Founded in Shinjuku, Tokyo, Humax Entertainment has built a reputable name in the entertainment industry by producing films that resonate deeply with viewers. Under the leadership of CEO Mitsuo Akimoto, the company continues to contribute to the artistic landscape in Japan through various media projects.

Look out for more news surrounding 'Dog of Lies' and its upcoming premiere in theaters across Japan!