LayarHijau– Lee Sang-il’s historical drama Kokuho has rewritten box office history in Japan. Despite its nearly three-hour runtime and focus on the traditional world of kabuki theater, the film has earned more than $111 million (over 17.37 billion yen) in Japan since its June release, surpassing the long-standing record of Bayside Shakedown 2 set back in 2003.
Backed by Sony and produced by Aniplex in collaboration with Myriagon Studio, with Toho handling distribution, the film has now drawn over 12 million moviegoers nationwide — an astonishing accomplishment for a prestige production with dense artistic themes.
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Kokuho enjoyed a warm reception when it premiered in May during Directors’ Fortnight at the Cannes Film Festival, sparking strong word of mouth that has only escalated. Earlier this year, Japan selected the film as its official submission for the 2026 Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category, where it is increasingly viewed as a serious contender.
Translating to “national treasure,” Kokuho spans five decades in the lives of two kabuki performers: a young orphan who rises from obscurity and the privileged successor of a prestigious stage family. Their complicated brotherhood gradually transforms into obsession and fierce rivalry. Director Lee adapts Shuichi Yoshida’s novel into a sweeping tale of ambition and artistic devotion — blending backstage drama, generational conflict and the making of a star into one operatic narrative.
Critics have praised the film for its cinematic elegance and deep engagement with kabuki’s centuries-old customs. The film’s lush production — from Sofian El Fani’s expressive cinematography to Yohei Taneda’s grand set designs — has earned significant acclaim. Stars Ryo Yoshizawa and Ryusei Yokohama have also been applauded for performances that blur the boundary between the performers’ onstage personas and private identities.
Kokuho’s commercial strength is especially notable amid a marketplace dominated by anime blockbusters and franchise entertainment. Observers say the film’s massive success underscores the audience demand for high-caliber storytelling with strong cultural roots.
Beyond the screen, the phenomenon has sparked renewed enthusiasm for real-life kabuki. Major theaters in Japan have reported spikes in attendance, with younger spectators filling the seats and many newcomers discovering — or rediscovering — the traditional art form.
Following its momentum at home, Kokuho made its North American debut at the Toronto International Film Festival in September. Distributor GKIDS launched a limited release in the U.S. this month for Oscar qualification, with a broader rollout planned for early 2026.
