X-Cross (2007 Film)

X-Cross, originally released in Japanese as Ekusu Kurosu: Makyo Densetsu, is a 2007 Japanese horror thriller film directed by Kenta Fukasaku and distributed by Toei.[1] Based on a novel by Nobuyuki Joko with a screenplay by Tetsuya Oishi, the film runs for 90 minutes and was theatrically released in Japan on December 1, 2007.[1]

Plot

A character named Aiko invites Shiyori to visit Ashikari, a remote hot spring village intended to help her recover from a broken heart.[1] Upon arrival, the characters encounter strange, one-legged scarecrows scattered throughout the ominous village.[1] After an argument over an ex-boyfriend, Shiyori throws her cell phone into a waterfall.[1] Later in her room, she hears another cell phone ring and answers a call from a terrified man warning her about ancient rituals practiced in the village before she attempts to escape pursuing villagers.[1]

Cast

The principal cast members of X-Cross include:

• Nao Matsushita as Shiyori Mizuno[1]
• Ami Suzuki as Aiko Hiuke[1]
• Hiroyuki Ikeuchi as Keiichi Asamiya[1]
• Rikiya Koyama as Mononobe[1]
• Shoko Nakagawa as Yayoi Tachibana[1]
• Maju Ozawa as Reika Saionji[1]

Release and Screenings

Following its December 2007 release in Japan by Toei, X-Cross was screened internationally at film festivals in 2008.[1] These included the 7th New York Asian Film Festival in June and July 2008 for its New York premiere, and the 12th Fantasia Film Festival in July 2008 for its Canadian premiere.[1]