Get ready for a thrilling sneak peek into the world of Japanese cinema! 'Kokuho' is set to take audiences by storm, and we've got the inside scoop!
On a cozy autumn afternoon, a packed audience at the San Vicente Bungalows in LA was treated to an exclusive screening of 'Kokuho', a highly anticipated international film. This epic journey, spanning nearly three hours, paints a vivid portrait of a fictional kabuki actor's life, a story described by The Hollywood Reporter as "a stunning tale of art, ambition, and heritage."
Director Lee Sang-il's long-awaited venture into the world of kabuki, a classical Japanese theater form, was inspired by Shuichi Yoshida's novel. Set in post-World War II Japan, 'Kokuho' follows the rise of Kikuo, played by Sōya Kurokawa and Ryo Yoshizawa, under the mentorship of the iconic Hanai, portrayed by Ken Watanabe. It's a tale that spans decades and explores the rich tapestry of Japanese culture.
But here's where it gets controversial... After the screening, producer Chieko Murata and production designer Yohei Taneda shared their insights. Murata revealed that the initial discussions centered around the film's length, with a three-hour runtime being a bold choice. However, her love for Bollywood movies and the director's vision for an entertaining experience led to a unique blend of storytelling.
Taneda, known for his work with Quentin Tarantino, faced the daunting task of recreating the intricate world of kabuki performances. He explained, "We literally built an entire kabuki theater, paying attention to every detail, from the audience's perspective to the backstage maze." Murata added, "Even the elevator was a challenge, requiring a hole to be dug in the Kyoto studio."
'Kokuho' is Japan's official entry for the Oscars' best international feature category and is set to release in select U.S. theaters on November 14th. With a budget of $8 million, it has already become the second highest-grossing live-action local film in Japan, raking in over $107 million worldwide. So, what makes this film so captivating?
"In the last 50 years, Japan hasn't seen a film with kabuki as its central theme," Murata explained. "Kabuki shows are now a luxury, with tickets costing over $100. Most Japanese will never experience it live, but we learn about it in school. Making a movie about kabuki and offering it at an affordable price is a way to bring this art form to the masses."
This edition of THR Frontrunners was sponsored by GKIDS Films, and it's safe to say that 'Kokuho' is a must-watch for anyone interested in Japanese culture and cinema. And this is the part most people miss... It's not just a film, it's a cultural phenomenon, offering a unique insight into a world that few get to experience.
What are your thoughts on 'Kokuho'? Do you think it will make a splash at the Oscars? Feel free to share your predictions and opinions in the comments below!
