Lionsgate Announces 2027 Release for Dystopian Thriller “Karoshi”

Lionsgate has scheduled the theatrical debut of *Karoshi* for January 29, 2027. The film is described as a near-future corporate thriller set in Manhattan, where “a mysterious outsider infiltrates a powerful company after a worker’s death, exposing the violent system hidden beneath its polished surface.” The story blends dystopian world-building with a samurai-inspired action aesthetic.

Lionsgate Sets January 2027 for Corporate Action Thriller ‘Karoshi’ Starring Cynthia Erivo, Giancarlo Esposito and More

*Karoshi* is written and directed by Takashi Doscher, whose previous credits include *Still* (2018) and *Only* (2019). The project is produced by 87Eleven Entertainment—best known for the *John Wick* franchise—under the leadership of Chad Stahelski, alongside Jason Spitz, Alex Young, and Nathan Kahane. Sam Greenberg serves as executive producer. Cinematographer Pawel Pogorzelski, noted for collaborations with Ari Aster, handled cinematography. Principal photography occurred in Vancouver, Canada, from June through August 2025.

Cynthia Erivo Action Movie From John Wick Director Sets Release Date

The ensemble cast features Teo Yoo (central outsider), Isabel May, Takehiro Hira, Bill Camp, Show Kasamatsu, Giancarlo Esposito, and Cynthia Erivo.

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Principal photography spanned three months in 2025. The film may carry 87Eleven’s signature action style—long continuous takes, precise choreography, and limited reliance on shaky-camera or heavy digital effects. The samurai influence is expected to foreground blade combat within the choreography.

Lionsgate Sets January 2027 for Corporate Action Thriller ‘Karoshi’ Starring Cynthia Erivo, Giancarlo Esposito and More

The title *Karoshi* references a Japanese sociomedical term meaning “death from overwork,” a recognized phenomenon where extreme workplace pressure leads to sudden fatal health events. This reference aligns with the film’s depiction of a corporate system that imposes extreme pressure on workers.

Lionsgate Sets January 2027 for Corporate Action Thriller ‘Karoshi’ Starring Cynthia Erivo, Giancarlo Esposito and More

Lionsgate’s release announcement emphasizes the film’s blend of dystopian setting and action-driven narrative. The studio highlights the film’s exploration of hidden systemic violence within a polished corporate façade, positioning *Karoshi* as both entertainment and a commentary on modern work environments.

Lionsgate Sets January 2027 for Corporate Action Thriller ‘Karoshi’ Starring Cynthia Erivo, Giancarlo Esposito and More

No dissenting commentary or criticism has been reported in the available sources.

Lionsgate Sets January 2027 for Corporate Action Thriller ‘Karoshi’ Starring Cynthia Erivo, Giancarlo Esposito and More

• “When a mysterious outsider infiltrates a powerful company after a worker’s death, he exposes the violent system hidden beneath its polished surface.” — Official synopsis, *Karoshi*

Cynthia Erivo Action Movie From John Wick Director Sets Release Date

• “I had been working with Chad Stahelski (director of John Wick) on a couple of other projects and brought this script to him and his company after the (WGA) strike. Thankfully, he responded to it and has a great relationship with Lionsgate. Through him, we pitched it to Lionsgate (I was incredibly nervous), and thankfully, they loved it too. At the time of the pitch, we also had Teo attached to round out the package.” — Takashi Doscher, Reddit AMA

Cynthia Erivo Action Movie From John Wick Director Sets Release Date

Lionsgate has not disclosed specific marketing plans for the January 29, 2027 release.

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