Guardians of the Video Game' Secures International Distribution Rights, Premieres at Toronto Market

Unveiling the Digital Realm: A New Animated Epic Takes the Global Stage

From Webtoon Sensation to Cinematic Adventure: The Genesis of 'Guardians'

"Guardians of the Video Game" began as a Naver Webtoon created by Gasfard, captivating audiences with over 345 million views. Its popularity later led to its transformation into a mobile game available on Google Play. Now, this beloved property is making its way to the big screen as a fully realized 3D animated feature film, promising an immersive experience for fans and new audiences alike.

The Hidden World of Gaming: A Tale of Protectors and Pixelated Peril

The film delves into a vibrant, imaginative universe hidden beneath the surface of video games. This secret realm is inhabited by a covert organization of guardians whose mission is to ensure the smooth operation of each game and safeguard every player's adventure. The narrative centers on a guardian, exiled from the advanced 3D gaming landscapes, who finds himself in an unassuming, pixel-based RPG. Operating clandestinely, he guides an unsuspecting hero toward the game's ultimate conclusion while simultaneously working to expose a malevolent plot threatening both him and the game itself.

Creative Visionaries: The Talent Behind the Animation

The animated feature is helmed by director Uhm Young-sik, known for his work on the animated film "Running Man: Revengers" and the animation segments of "Yumi's Cells" Season 1. His previous credits also include co-directing "Red Shoes and the Seven Dwarfs," a film that achieved international distribution in 120 countries, showcasing his expertise in the animation industry.

Locus Animation: Bringing Digital Worlds to Life

Production of "Guardians of the Video Game" is being handled by Locus Animation, a renowned animation and VFX studio. Their portfolio boasts successes such as "Red Shoes and the Seven Dwarfs" and "Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning," the latter of which is currently developing a sequel. Locus Animation has consistently focused on adapting popular webtoons, with other notable projects including "Barkhan" and "Denma."

Anticipated Release and Market Premiere

Currently in post-production, "Guardians of the Video Game" is scheduled for release in the fourth quarter of 2026. Finecut will unveil the first exclusive footage of the film during the prestigious Toronto market, offering a glimpse into this highly anticipated animated adventure.

Finecut's Diverse Offerings at the Toronto Market

In addition to "Guardians of the Video Game," Finecut will be presenting a selection of other captivating titles at the Toronto market this year. Among them is "Long Long Night," another 3D animated feature that will celebrate its Toronto premiere in the festival's Centrepiece section. The acclaimed film "Nowhere to Lay My Eyes," directed by Hong Sangsoo, garnered two Pardo Awards at Locarno, recognizing best direction and best performance, along with the festival's Ecumenical Jury Prize. The lineup also includes "Dora," directed by July Jung and starring Kim Do-yeon and Ando Sakura, an invitee to Cannes' Directors' Fortnight. Rounding out their impressive slate is Park Hoon-jung's noir "Tristes Tropiques," a recipient of the Silver Raven Award from the Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival and an official selection for Sitges, Fantasia, Fantasy Filmfest, and L'Étrange Festiva