Originally published at: https://geektherapy.org/gkids-announces-new-york-and-la-theatrical-engagements-and-new-poster-for-kokuho/
Author: Newsroom
NEW YORK (October 1, 2025) – Academy Award ® -winning producer and distributor GKIDS announced today special one-week-only theatrical engagements of KOKUHO in New York and Los Angeles, and revealed new poster artwork. The film is set to play at the AMC Universal CityWalk Hollywood in Los Angeles on November 14, 2025 and Angelika Film Center in New York City on November 21, 2025, with a nationwide release to come.
Previously announced as Japan’s official submission for Best International Feature at the 98 th Academy Awards, the smash-hit live action feature is directed by Sang-il Lee (Pachinko Season 2, Hula Girls, Rage), and stars Ryo Yoshizawa (Kingdom), Ryusei Yokohama (Your Eyes Tell), and Ken Watanabe (The Last Samurai). The film marks a breakthrough performance for lead actor Ryo Yoshizawa, who trained 18 months in the art and history of Kabuki theater, to embody the role of Kikuo, an actor pursuing greatness at all costs, in a story of glory and heartbreak that spans decades.
The film is produced by Aniplex Inc. and Myriagon Studio, and international sales are handled by Pyramide International. GKIDS announced their acquisition for North America just prior to the film’s Noth American debut at the Toronto International Film Festival, and marks a historical new phase for GKIDS as its first live-action contemporary film, after several successful re-releases of catalog Japanese live action films including SHIN GODZILLA and Linda Linda Linda.
Upon its domestic release in Japan in June, KOKUHO has become a box office phenomenon, grossing over $104 million (10.9 million admissions) as of September 28 th , marking the film as the second-highest grossing Japanese live-action film of all time. KOKUHO held its world debut at Cannes in Directors’ Fortnight and subsequently played as an official selection at the Shanghai International Film Festival, followed by its North American debut at the Toronto International Film Festival. The film will be playing at AFI Fest next month on October 24th. In November, Director Sang-il Lee will receive the Akira Kurosawa Award at the Tokyo International Film Festival, which recognizes filmmakers who will guide the industry into the future.