Junji Ito Horror Series 'The Town of Wisdom' Premieres on Netflix July 28

Netflix is set to release "The Town of Wisdom," a groundbreaking original Chinese live-action series inspired by the works of Japanese horror maestro Junji Ito, on July 28.

This series marks a significant departure from previous adaptations, as it is the first live-action production globally to pay tribute to Ito's distinct style. Instead of directly replicating individual stories, "The Town of Wisdom" weaves together beloved characters like Tomie and Soichi into a completely new narrative. Director Hsieh Chun-yi emphasized that the project operates under Ito's authorization, creating a fresh "Junji Ito universe" grounded in the spirit of his original works.

“

This town has a problem, but the most terrifying thing isn't these strange occurrences, but that everyone feels it yet pretends not to notice.

The story centers on Zhao Jiaqi, a student played by Chen Yan-fei, who moves with her single mother, He Lifen (Regina Wan-chi Lam), to the enigmatic "Chongming Town." This town is notorious for its intense academic pressure, with its "Chongming Cram School" operating under the strict principle that only academic excellence ensures survival. As exams loom, Zhao Jiaqi notices disturbing changes in her classmates and voices her unease: "This town has a problem, but the most terrifying thing isn't these strange occurrences, but that everyone feels it yet pretends not to notice."

Adding to the visual shock, Dee Hsu's eldest daughter, Hsu Hsi-wen, makes her acting debut in a role that pays homage to Ito's "Slug Girl." A brief but impactful scene shows a slimy, wriggling slug tentacle emerging from her mouth. The series also features other iconic characters, including a chilling portrayal of Soichi, known for his curses, and a character with a distorted face, inspired by Tomie. The production boasts a top-tier team of cinematographers, art directors, stylists, and special effects artists to recreate the unsettling atmosphere characteristic of Ito's manga.

“

We are creating a new world view in the form of a live-action series based on the spirit of the teacher's works, establishing a 'Junji Ito universe' beyond imagination.