Indie distributor Bitters End is to give a theatrical release in Japan to Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer.” The film is controversial in Japan where the two atomic bombs were detonated in 1945, killing hundreds of thousands of Japanese citizens.
The film was released in most territories in July by Universal and went on to gross $950 million worldwide. But Toho-Towa, which handles most universal titles in Japan, did not go ahead with the release.
Variety understands that giant ad agency and rights broker Dentsu was involved in finding an alternative outlet in Japan.
“Bitters End, will release Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer’ in Japan in 2024. The decision was made following months of thoughtful dialogue associated with the subject matter and acknowledging the particular sensitivity for us Japanese,” the indie firm said in a statement. “After screening the film, we feel Christopher Nolan has created a singular cinematic experience that transcends traditional storytelling and must be seen on the big screen. We invite the audience to watch the film with their own eyes when it comes to Japan.”
On social media, Bitters End said: “This is a spectacular true story drama that depicts the unknown life of a man who holds the fate of the world in his hands while at the same time facing a crisis that could destroy it […] It has been hailed as Nolan’s best work ever and is considered a top candidate for various film awards.”
The mention of awards is likely to be significant. While Bitters’ End has not announced a theatrical release date, it has long seemed likely that the film would find a place in Japanese theaters in time for the award season build up to the Oscars.
Bitters End has previously handled Korean Oscar winner “Parasite” and will release Japan’s current Oscar-contender “Perfect Days” on Dec. 22.
The film is directed and written by Christopher Nolan. It stars Cillian Murphy, Emily Blunt, Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr., Florence Pugh, Josh Hartnett, Casey Affleck, Rami Malek and Kenneth Branagh.
