Exit 8 Review: Cinema's best video game adaptation
Walking into this film, I was just hyped to get another Japanese film. What I wasn't aware of was that, not only is it regarded as a masterful liminal thriller, but, to my knowledge, it is now the highest-rated video game-to-film adaptation of all time. This film was also an absolute event on opening night: it was the most packed theater I've seen this year outside of The Mario Galaxy Movie. Yes, more packed than Iron Lung and Send Help... Yeah, I'm surprised, too. This movie was so much more than I was expecting, and I was already expecting a lot. Thank you so much for joining me here on The Reel Ranker today, and I hope you enjoy this article!
As always, I'll start with the negatives here. The only thing that kept this film from a 5-star rating for me was the characters. While likable, the characters here constantly make decisions that aren't stupid, but they certainly aren't well thought out. For example, one character sees the most obvious red flag and is like, "Well, is that really an anomaly?" and then disregards the rules... It made me roll my eyes a couple of times. Also, they freak out and get super scared, like they don't know they'll be fine in a couple of hours if they pay a modicum of attention à la Where's Waldo? It was a little jarring, to say the least. This only happens a couple of times, but the film certainly could've been perfect with a little more time in the oven.
Other than a bit of suspension of disbelief, this film is firing on all cylinders. The concept here honestly translates perfectly to film, and, honestly, works even better in the medium. Any thriller or horror that is somewhat focused on playing a game always feels fresh and electric to me. This film is basically Spot the Difference as a liminal thriller—but it's also much deeper than that, exploring themes of fatherhood and not giving up due to feeling inadequate. It also hinges on the idea of not standing idle and conforming to societal norms when someone nearby is suffering.
Through the experience of spotting anomalies, the lead discerns what should and shouldn't be happening, which loops back into a neat climax that fulfills his character arc. The film also incorporates intriguing chapter-based storytelling that smartly allows it to unfold beyond just eight sequences, adding a lot more depth. Additionally, the cinematography, editing, and simple yet potent production design all elevate the stakes and paint an interesting picture that is equal parts terrifying and engaging. The cinematography is especially exquisite, and with how it cuts between perspectives, angles, and people, it's one I'll certainly be campaigning for come the 99th Academy Awards.
The Reel Ranker Verdict
Reel or Unreel? - Reel
The Reel Ranker Score: 88%
Letter Score: S-
Star Ranking: 4.5 out of 5
Exit 8 is a phenomenal liminal thriller, an even better video game adaptation, and one of the best and freshest films of 2025 thus far. With award-worthy camerawork, a perfect premise, and engaging thrills, this has the potential to be one of the top 10 films of the year for many.
Check out some other reviews for horror and thriller flicks below! These lists will be continuously updating as I review more of the films I've watched 😄
Brighton Nelson
Brighton Nelson
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