IMAGICA GROUP Original Film Production Project, 3rd Edition Launched (Application Deadline: August 31 (Mon))

IMAGICA GROUP Inc. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; President and Group CEO: Shunjiro Nagase) announces the launch of the application period for the 3rd edition of the "IMAGICA GROUP Original Film Production Project," aimed at discovering new talent and exploring the potential of Japanese visual expression on a global stage. Applications will be accepted starting June 30, 2026 (Tue). (Application Deadline: August 31, 2026 (Mon)).

This project aims to realize creators' challenges as film works through planning, selection, and production, with an eye towards submission to and awards at international film festivals. Two works have been selected to date, and production is currently underway for their film adaptation.

"IMAGICA GROUP Original Film Production Project" Overview

Launched in 2025, the "IMAGICA GROUP Original Film Production Project" solicits film proposals from within our group companies with the goal of submission to and awards at international film festivals, selecting and producing one work annually. By continuing this for five years, we aim to discover and nurture talented creators while broadcasting IMAGICA GROUP's creativity and expressive power to the world.

<Previous Award-Winning Works>

In the first edition, "Maria" by Tomoka Terada (Director/Screenwriter) and Hana Tsuchikawa (OLM, Inc. / Producer) was selected. In the second edition, "OUR SON" by Yutaro Seki (PICS, Inc. / Director/Screenwriter) and Sang-geun Han (PICS, Inc. / Producer) was selected.

Both works are currently in production for their film adaptations, with preparations underway with the aim of submission to international film festivals. Please refer to the press release report below for project details and awardee profiles.

▼1st Edition "Maria"

https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000399.000037973.html

▼2nd Edition "OUR SON"

https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000455.000037973.html

Application Requirements

1. Applicants must be producers belonging to one of IMAGICA GROUP's group companies: OLM, Inc., PICS, Inc., or ROBOT COMMUNICATIONS INC. (External producers or creators such as directors can apply by partnering with a producer belonging to an IMAGICA GROUP group company).

2. The proposed project must not utilize existing copyrighted works (including those scheduled for separate release) as its original material or subject matter.

*Direct applications from individuals not affiliated with our group will not be accepted.

Judging Criteria

- The proposal must be for a feature-length live-action film (60 minutes or longer) aiming for submission to and awards at the three major European film festivals (Cannes Film Festival, Berlin International Film Festival, Venice International Film Festival).

- The project must be achievable with a target completion date of the end of March 2029.

The production cost for the third edition work will be determined after IMAGICA GROUP Inc. invests up to 70 million yen and establishes a production committee or a similar joint venture.

Please refer to the IMAGICA GROUP Inc. press release for application documents and the judging process.

OLM, Inc.

The OLM Group handles a wide range of visual works across genres, including animation, full CG, live-action, and VFX. We are expanding our field of activity by producing TV series and films not only domestically but also for overseas markets. With our vivid passion, we aim to entertain more people and enrich their hearts. We deliver smiles and inspiration to everyone who loves visual content.

https://www.olm.co.jp/

PICS, Inc.

P.I.C.S. was founded in 2000, spinning off from the creative department of the music channel "MTV." We handle the production of various visual and graphic content across genres, including music videos, live footage, commercials, films, dramas, and anime. We also manage a diverse range of creators, such as directors, screenwriters, and animation artists. Furthermore, we are involved in interactive content, spatial design, and experience design for commercial facilities and exhibitions, and we are challenging new areas such as original IP development.

https://www.pics.tokyo/

ROBOT COMMUNICATIONS INC.

ROBOT COMMUNICATIONS INC. aims to provide courage and hope to society through entertainment, and we plan and produce a wide range of story experiences, from films, dramas, anime, and TV commercials to corporate brand movies and experiential attractions. In terms of theatrical films, we handle a wide range of genres, from blockbusters like "Godzilla Minus One" to art-house films like "Egoist."

https://www.robot.co.jp/

IMAGICA GROUP Inc.

Company Name: IMAGICA GROUP Inc.

Headquarters: 1-14-2 Kaigan, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0022

Representative: Shunjiro Nagase, President and Group CEO

Founded: February 18, 1935 (Established: June 10, 1974)

Business Activities: Oversight of the business activities of group companies engaged in content business, video production technology business, game business, measurement solutions business, etc. IMAGICA GROUP provides global, one-stop services from content planning and production to video editing, distribution, and delivery services. We offer high-quality products and services utilizing video technology not only in entertainment but also in a wide range of fields such as industry, healthcare, and academic research.

https://www.imagicagroup.co.jp/