UPDATE: Audiences at the San Vicente Bungalows in Los Angeles just experienced an exclusive sneak peek of the highly anticipated Japanese film Kokuho, directed by Lee Sang-il. This screening, part of the THR Frontrunners event, showcased an epic nearly three-hour journey into the world of kabuki, a classical Japanese theater form.
The film, which hits select U.S. theaters on November 14, 2023, is Japan’s official entry for the Oscars’ Best International Feature category. It has already become a cultural phenomenon in Japan, grossing over $107 million worldwide on a budget of just $8 million.
Following the screening, producer Chieko Murata and production designer Yohei Taneda engaged the audience in a panel discussion, sharing insights on the film’s ambitious scale and its cultural significance. Murata revealed that discussions about the film’s length began with the understanding that the runtime would need to be at least three hours, saying, “I myself really love and am a fan of Indian Bollywood movies… so I knew that if there were dancing segments woven into the story, that three hours wouldn’t be so bad.”
Taneda, known for his work on Quentin Tarantino films, detailed the challenges of recreating a kabuki theater setting practically, emphasizing the intricate design needed for authentic performances. “We literally recreated an entire kabuki theater,” he stated, “down to the seats that all the background were sitting in.”
The film’s premise follows the life of Kikuo, portrayed by Sōya Kurokawa and Ryo Yoshizawa, who rises to fame under the mentorship of kabuki legend Hanai, played by Ken Watanabe. With kabuki tickets now costing over $100, Murata noted the film’s accessibility, stating, “If we can make a movie about it, and if you can see it for $10, people will want to come and see it.”
With its unique focus on kabuki, a genre not seen in Japanese cinema for over 50 years, Kokuho is poised to capture international audiences and could redefine the landscape of Japanese film. The buzz surrounding its release indicates a strong trajectory leading up to the Oscars.
As anticipation builds, keep an eye on the film’s performance at the box office and its potential impact on global cinema. Share this exciting news and stay tuned for more updates on Kokuho as it approaches its U.S. premiere!
