About the Director

Tony Sebastian Ukpo is a British independent filmmaker known for ambitious, concept-driven storytelling that blends psychological tension with genre elements. His work often explores moral complexity, identity, and the darker edges of human behavior. With Random 11, Ukpo undertook a bold, international narrative that spans cultures and decades, demonstrating his interest in high-concept thrillers produced within the independent film space. Ukpo’s direction combines stylized cinematography, shifts between black-and-white and color visuals, and a serious tonal approach designed to create atmosphere and suspense.

Film Synopsis

Random 11 follows prodigy detective Mitsuko Unagi as she hunts a mysterious serial killer known only as “Eleven.” The killings began on February 29th when 11 individuals were found dead simultaneously in different parts of Tokyo, each apparently forced into ritualistic suicide. Over the next decade, similar coordinated murders occur, leaving authorities with no evidence and no clear suspect. As the killer’s pattern evolves and the investigation expands beyond Japan, Mitsuko faces mounting pressure while attempting to decode the logic behind the killings. The film builds toward a confrontation that suggests the story is only the beginning of a larger narrative.

Tagline: “The pattern has changed.”

About Random 11

Tony Sebastian Ukpo has described Random 11 as a high-concept exploration of predestined chaos and psychological manipulation. His ambition was to move beyond the perceived limits of low-budget independent filmmaking by constructing a narrative that spans decades and continents, positioning the film as the first chapter in a larger unfolding puzzle. Ukpo deliberately employed a blend of black-and-white cinematography and stylized production design to evoke the atmosphere of Tokyo, despite filming largely in London. By centering the story on the psychological “game” between detective and killer, he aimed to deconstruct the traditional serial-killer genre, using hypnotic suggestion as the film’s core narrative engine.

Awards & Recognition

Indie Cult Following: The film is recognized for its unique pedigree a Japanese-language film written and directed by a Nigerian-British filmmaker which has made it a subject of interest in international film forums.

Critical "Ambitious" Label: Often cited by indie critics for its "reach exceeding its grasp," the film is praised for its stylistic boldness and the lead performance by Haruka Abe.

Festival and Distribution: Random 11 has seen life on the independent festival circuit and gained wider reach through niche DVD releases and streaming platforms like Amazon