Directed by David Tomaszewski and co-written with Orelsan, Yoroï is a fantasy adventure film that hit theaters on October 29, 2025. Featuring performances by Orelsan, Clara Choï, and Kazuya Tanabe, the movie delves into Japanese folklore through a contemporary story. After its theatrical run, it will be available for purchase on VOD starting February 26, 2026, followed by rental from March 4, 2026.
Aurélien, a musician nearing the end of his tour, decides to leave France behind and move to Japan with his wife Nanako, who is pregnant with their first child. The couple settles into a traditional countryside home, seeking a fresh start away from the relentless media spotlight. However, the discovery of an ancient armor at the bottom of an abandoned well soon shatters this peaceful retreat. The relic appears to be connected to unseen forces that start to manifest around them.
As strange phenomena increase, Aurélien realizes that the armor awakens creatures from Japanese folklore: the Yokaïs. The film intertwines personal drama with the emergence of the supernatural, forcing its protagonist to confront both his inner vulnerabilities and an ancient, mysterious world. Between voluntary exile and a loss of bearings, the story explores themes of identity, heritage, and fame, set against a rural backdrop where traditions still thrive.
Yoroï is the debut feature film from David Tomaszewski, who is best known for his short films and music videos. The director had previously worked with Orelsan on several videos, including RaelSan, Ils sont cools, and L’odeur de l’essence. The project’s origins date back to the early 2010s, sparked by a reflection on the armor as a metaphor for fame. Over time, the story took shape as a narrative blending introspection with elements of fantastical imagination.
The filming took place between France — notably at the Diamond SP Studio in Essonne — and Japan, with scenes shot atop Mount Fuji and in Osaka. The original soundtrack was recorded in London with the London Symphony Orchestra. The visual universe draws heavily from Japanese culture and includes references acknowledged by the director, such as My Neighbor Totoro by Hayao Miyazaki and Where the Wild Things Are by Spike Jonze, all while maintaining a distinctive, personal touch in the filmmaking approach.
Blending elements of fantasy films with psychological drama, Yoroï appeals to viewers who appreciate stories rich in Japanese culture and mythology. The inclusion of Yokaïs ties the film to a cinematic tradition that reimagines Japanese legends through a modern lens. This project also marks a significant milestone in Orelsan’s career, as he takes on a dramatic role while also contributing to the script.
Yoroï
Film | 2025
In theaters: October 29, 2025
Available for purchase on VOD: February 26, 2026
Rental: March 4, 2026
Adventure, Fantasy | Runtime: 1h42
Directed by David Tomaszewski | Starring Orelsan, Clara Choï, Kazuya Tanabe
Original title: Yoroï
Countries: France / Japan
Blending a reflection on an artist at a crossroads with an immersive dive into Japanese folklore, Yoroï offers a fantastical story rooted in a deeply personal experience. By combining French filmmaking with Japanese influences, the film embodies a cross-cultural exchange that’s now set to be available on VOD from late February 2026.
To explore further, be sure to check out our curated list of February’s new VOD releases, our comprehensive guide to latest streaming premieres across all platforms, and today’s top pick in what to watch today in streaming.
This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.
