'Dokgo': Japanese Film Hits 10 Million Viewers After 22 Years, Also Invited to Busan Film Festival

Director Lee Sang-il's film 'Dokgo' has achieved a monumental success in Japan, surpassing 10 million viewers 102 days after its release. This marks the first time in 22 years that a Japanese live-action film has reached such a milestone, placing 'Dokgo' as the second highest-grossing Japanese live-action film of all time. The movie has already garnered 14.2 billion yen (approximately 133.5 billion Korean won) in revenue, with expectations high that it may even surpass the record of 'The Triumphant Return of the Great Yokai' (17.35 billion yen).

Adding to its accolades, 'Dokgo' has been officially selected for the competition section of the 30th Busan International Film Festival, making this a double celebration for the production. The film delves into the lifelong story of Kikuo (played by Ryo Yoshizawa), who is drawn into a prestigious Kabuki family after his yakuza father's death. It explores the complex relationship, filled with love and hate, that spans 50 years with his friend and rival Shunsuke (played by Ryusei Yokohama). Based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Yoshida Shuichi, the movie masterfully portrays a person's dreams, passions, and the darker aspects of human nature.

Despite its substantial 174-minute runtime, Director Lee Sang-il's meticulous direction, seamlessly blending Kabuki stage performances with the characters' lives, has captivated audiences. The powerful performances from the cast, coupled with a compelling narrative that explores themes of obsessive ambition, jealousy, and inferiority, have earned widespread critical acclaim. In a landscape where films centered on Kabuki are considered challenging to bring to the screen, 'Dokgo' has undeniably carved out a new record in Japanese cinema history.

Director Lee Sang-il, a third-generation Korean resident in Japan, often imbues his films with explorations of identity and cultural heritage. Prior to 'Dokgo,' he gained recognition for works such as 'The Wicked'. 'Dokgo' represents his highly anticipated return to large-scale commercial filmmaking, showcasing his directorial prowess informed by a deep understanding of Japanese society and culture.