The First Rule of Onsen Shark Club? Don't Ask Questions.
You're soaking in a steamy Japanese hot spring, the mineral-rich waters easing your aches, the serene mountain air lulling you into bliss—when suddenly, chomp. A prehistoric shark erupts from the depths, turning your relaxation into a bloodbath.
This is Hot Spring Shark Attack (originally Onsen Shâku), Japan's latest gift to the world of gloriously unhinged B-movies. Directed by Morihito Inoue—a name you'll either remember forever or forget immediately—the film already won over Tokyo's International Shark Film Festival (yes, that exists) and is now set to invade US theaters this July.
Why This Shouldn't Work (But Somehow Does)
On paper, Hot Spring Shark Attack sounds like a Sharknado knockoff with a cultural twist. But Japan's B-movies have always thrived on sincerity—even in absurdity. Where Hollywood's schlock often winks too hard, Onsen Shâku plays it straight:
- The Plot: A corrupt mayor's tourist development awakens ancient, hot spring-hopping sharks.
- The Heroes: A marine biologist and a baffled police chief.
- The Vibes: Imagine Jaws directed by a caffeine-addled Godzilla fan after a 72-hour onsen bender.
Inoue's genius? He knows this is ridiculous. But he also knows that shark movies—like hot springs—are a universal pleasure. As he told reporters:
“Shark movies are popular in Japan as well, but the number of shark films produced here has not yet met the growing demand. My film was made domestically in Japan and received great acclaim, not only from regular shark movie enthusiasts but also from many viewers who were previously unfamiliar with the genre.”
The US Release: A Rare Treat for B-Movie Connoisseurs
Utopia (the distributor behind The People's Joker) is giving Hot Spring Shark Attack a proper rollout:
- Theatrical Run: Kicks off July 11, 2025, including Alamo Drafthouse screenings.
- VOD: Same day, for those who prefer their shark attacks from the safety of their bathtubs.
Will it be good? Debatable. Will it be memorable? Absolutely. This is the kind of film that turns midnight screenings into rowdy rituals—where audiences cheer, groan, and maybe even question their life choices.
The Verdict: Lean In
Some movies are meant to be analyzed. Others are meant to be experienced with a crowd, a drink, and zero expectations. Hot Spring Shark Attack falls firmly in the latter camp.
So mark your calendars. Grab your friends. And remember: No onsen is safe.
