The Best Japanese Horror Film in Years? Never After Dark (2026) Review

Never After Dark

The reviewer and Kaylee went to see the Japanese horror film Never After Dark after hearing Stephen King describe it as creepy, gripping, and a must-see. The reviewer jokes that King’s taste in films doesn’t always inspire confidence, citing Maximum Overdrive and the TV version of The Shining, but admits to being a fan anyway.

The screening was so limited that they left work early—claiming it was for a meeting—to catch one of the few showings in Arizona.

What They Thought

The premise sounds familiar: a woman hires a medium to deal with the ghosts she’s seeing, while her son plays the skeptic. But both viewers came away impressed, describing the film as distinctive, well acted, and exceptionally crafted.

They especially praise the music and sound design, camera work, memorable imagery, and the way the plot details pay off by the end. They also highlight the main character’s unusual fearlessness: as frightening events unfold, she seems to treat the supernatural as part of her own world.

The reviewer says the film grew on them the more they discussed it and thinks it could reward a second viewing.

Release and Recommendation

The reviewer recommends seeing the film but warns that its theatrical release is hard to find. Even their friend Wyatt couldn’t locate a screening in New York. They expect the film may eventually reach VOD.

Video Wrap-Up

The video closes with a plug for the reviewer’s upcoming horror anthology, a joke about subscribing “or die,” and a shout-out to Bean, the little black cat who’s been appearing on the channel—and, naturally, is always around “after dark.”

Personalities

• Appear: The reviewer, Kaylee, and Bean the cat
• Mentioned but does not appear: Wyatt