After two years since production wrapped, the screenlife J-horror film Bloat is nearing its release, having officially received an R-rating. The film has been rated for “language and some violent content,” indicating a darker, more intense style of horror.

Starring Ben McKenzie (Gotham) and Bojana Novakovic (Beyond Skyline), Bloat tells the story of a military officer (McKenzie) stationed in Turkey while his wife (Novakovic) is on vacation in Japan with their children. After their younger son nearly drowns in a lake, the parents begin to suspect that something is wrong with him.

The film also features Bon Koizumi, the great-grandson of famed Japanese folklorist Lafcadio Hearn, who is known for bringing traditional Japanese ghost stories to Western audiences. Koizumi’s character will help the family uncover the mystery of Japanese folklore demons, with tales like The Story of Mimi-Nashi-Hōïchi and Yuki-Onna playing a significant role in the narrative.

Bloat was filmed in Tokyo, with iconic locations like Shibuya Crossing and Yamanashi, home to Mount Fuji, contributing to the film’s atmosphere.

Written and directed by Tokyo-based filmmaker Pablo Absento, Bloat is produced by Bazelevs, the production company of Screenlife pioneer Timur Bekmambetov (Unfriended, Searching, Profile). The film is also co-produced by Pulsar Content, known for the aquatic supernatural horror The Deep House.

With the R-rating now official, fans can expect Lionsgate to announce a release date for this chilling blend of East-meets-West Kaidan.