Winner of last year’s Japan Academy Prize for animated feature, The Night Is Short made its way to a strong cult upon its release last August. After Hours meets Scott Pilgrim in this “up-all-night” comedy for teens and adults that only Masaaki Yuasa could envision. This “surrealist romp through Kyoto’s streets” (GamesRadar) comes complete with a God of Used Books, a guerrilla musical theatre troupe, a wise old man with a taste for extra spicy ramen, and cameos from the popular Tatami Galaxy series. Lovers of Japanese cinema are sure to enjoy the lush nocturnal imagery and heartfelt humor in this film that “assures us that we are all interconnected and that staying in the moment will allow us to live richer lives.” (The Irish Times)

“A highly original work by an artist who follows his own vision – wherever it leads.” – Charles Solomon, Los Angeles Times

“It is romantic and hallucinogenic, with an edge of softcore erotic sleaze.” – Peter Bradshaw, Guardian

“I’m not sure even Thomas Pynchon could have crafted this kind of fever dream scenario.” – Kyle Pinion, The Beat

“It’s delightful, delirious, delicious madness that perfectly captures the breathless euphoria of falling in love and the first time you truly realize just how scary and wonderful it is.”- Nathanael Hood, Unseen Films

“Lovers of anime are going to love this, and they have every reason to do so. This one packs a chockful of laughs in many places, and it’s one of the more inventive animated films of the year.” – Tomas Trussow, The Lonely Film Critic

“That unrestrained surrealism and willingness to surprise the audience with something new at every turn is why Masaaki Yuasa is one of the best filmmakers around.” – Juan Barquin, Miami New Times

“The term “fever dream” is often used to describe animation like Yuasa’s, but it’s rarely so apt as it is here.” – Christopher Campbell, Film School Rejects

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