Kokuho (National Treasure) - A New Masterpiece of Japanese Cinema

"Kokuho" (National Treasure) stands as the defining Japanese film of 2025. Directed by Lee Sang-il and based on Shuichi Yoshida's 2018 novel, the film tells the story of Kikuo, who, after his yakuza father's death, is taken in by a kabuki actor and dedicates his life to the traditional theater form. The all-star cast includes Ryo Yoshizawa, Ryusei Yokohama, Mitsuki Takahata, Shinobu Terajima, Min Tanaka, and Ken Watanabe.

The film's greatest strength lies in its nuanced portrayal of two contrasting worlds — the underworld and traditional performing arts. The kabuki stage scenes are breathtakingly beautiful, and their contrast with the darkness of Kikuo's past gives the narrative profound depth. Ryo Yoshizawa delivers a career-defining performance with an overwhelming screen presence that draws in every viewer.

After its world premiere at the 78th Cannes Film Festival in May 2025, and its Japanese theatrical release on June 6, "Kokuho" surpassed ¥15 billion at the box office, becoming the highest-grossing live-action Japanese film of all time. It also earned an Oscar nomination for Best Makeup and Hairstyling, cementing its international acclaim.