The intensifying campaign for the 98th Academy Awards Best International Feature Film category saw a major boost for the Japanese contender, Kokuhō (National Treasure), as Hollywood icon Tom Cruise offered a surprise endorsement during a crucial screening event in the United States last week. Director Lee Sang-il, actively promoting the film to secure a spot in the preliminary 15-film shortlist, hosted the special screening which attracted numerous Academy voters, filling the venue completely, according to reports from U.S. media outlets.
Kokuhō, which holds the record for the highest-grossing live-action Japanese film in history, focuses on a young man from a yakuza background determined to forge a career in the rigorous world of traditional Kabuki theater, striving for artistic excellence. The film features a strong ensemble cast including Ryo Yoshizawa, Ryusei Yokohama, and veteran actor Ken Watanabe.
The unexpected appearance by Cruise, known for his support of fellow filmmakers, significantly elevated the film’s profile right before the Academy’s initial selection phase. Media reports suggest that Watanabe, who previously co-starred with Cruise in the 2003 film The Last Samurai, reached out to the American star, personally recommending the feature. After viewing Kokuhō, Cruise reportedly offered to host the special promotional screening, providing an invaluable advocacy platform. With many influential Academy members present, his high-profile support is considered a crucial factor in the film’s efforts to advance past the initial stages.
Navigating a Competitive Field
The path to the final Oscar nominations remains highly competitive, with the Best International Feature category drawing submissions from around the globe. Kokuhō faces several strong contenders frequently mentioned as frontrunners. Among the key rivals are the South Korean entry, Guilty Choice, the French submission, Purely an Iranian Accident, and the highly anticipated film The Secret Agent.
The race to the shortlist, which is set to be unveiled next week, requires significant momentum and positive buzz among voters. While box office success at home demonstrates popularity, international critics’ recognition and visible endorsements from industry heavyweights like Cruise are often decisive in securing an initial nomination push.
For Japan, gaining a spot on the shortlist would mark a significant achievement, highlighting the enduring global appeal of its cinematic output, particularly when focusing on unique cultural narratives like Kabuki. The director’s proactive approach, combined with the star-studded backing, aims to distinguish Kokuhō in a category traditionally dominated by European and established Asian powerhouse entries. The eventual list of 15 selected films will significantly narrow the field ahead of the final nominations announcement in the new year.
