At the 76th Berlin International Film Festival, the Japanese film "Chilled," which uniquely blends horror with comedic elements in a convenience store setting, received the prestigious International Critics' Award. This film, produced by a newly established company in 2022 and directed by a former commercial director, showcases the story of a convenience store clerk, played by actor Shota Sometani, and his father's descent into madness as he rigorously enforces the store's rules. The film was chosen for the forum section designed to highlight emerging directors.

"Chilled" is not only a horror film but also weaves in significant comedic moments, as evidenced by the laughter from the audience during its official screening on the night of the 13th. After the screening, director Yusuke Iwasaki expressed his vision for the film, mentioning how convenience stores serve as a metaphorical crossroads between life and death, emphasizing the tension between the characters’ everyday realities and the underlying horrors that persist in such ordinary settings.

Overall, the film's success at a major international festival underscores the growing recognition of Japanese cinema on the world stage, particularly in the horror genre, as it continues to innovate and explore unique themes that resonate with both domestic and international audiences. Its creative combination of traditional horror elements with humor may appeal to a broader audience, opening the door further for future projects from the new production company focused on anime and horror genres.