Story perspectives

Kokuho Shatters Box Office Record, Eyes Oscar Nomination

11/26/2025

Summary

Story summary

Kokuho, directed by Lee Sang-il, became Japan's highest-grossing domestic live-action film, earning over ¥17.37 billion since its June 2025 release.
It surpassed Bayside Shakedown 2's 22-year domestic box-office record.
The film follows two friends in kabuki, drawing over 12 million viewers in Japan.
Kokuho is Japan's official submission for the Best International Feature Film at the 2026 Academy Awards, although it has struggled to gain traction in South Korea.

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Story summary

Kokuho, directed by Lee Sang-il, became Japan's highest-grossing domestic live-action film, earning over ¥17.37 billion since its June 2025 release.
It surpassed Bayside Shakedown 2's 22-year domestic box-office record.
The film follows two friends in kabuki, drawing over 12 million viewers in Japan.
Kokuho is Japan's official submission for the Best International Feature Film at the 2026 Academy Awards, although it has struggled to gain traction in South Korea.