Landmark Documentary by JapanS #MeToo Figure to Premiere in Tokyo
TOKYO – Shiori Ito‘s groundbreaking documentary, “black Box Diaries,” detailing her allegations of sexual assault and subsequent fight for justice, will debut in Japan on December 12th, distributor Toei Advertising announced Friday. The film, nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Documentary Feature category this year, has been adapted for the Japanese market following revisions made in response to feedback from individuals featured within it.
The limited initial release-currently slated for a single Tokyo cinema-marks a notable moment for Japan’s nascent #MeToo movement, where reporting rates for sexual assault remain critically low.Ito, now 36, became a central figure in the country’s conversation around sexual violence after publicly accusing a prominent television reporter of rape in 2015, following a meeting ostensibly about a job opportunity. Despite initially being dismissed by police,Ito pursued legal action,ultimately winning a civil case.
“Black Box Diaries” chronicles Ito’s personal journey and broader struggle against systemic barriers faced by survivors in Japan. The film’s previous unavailability in the country was officially attributed to legal concerns regarding the protection of privacy rights. Ito expressed optimism that the film’s screening will spark vital dialogue. “I hope this screening will encourage breaking the silence, protecting other victims, and gradually leading to social change,” she stated.
The film’s release comes amid ongoing challenges for the #MeToo movement in Japan, a traditionally conservative society. Government research indicates that a mere four percent of women who experience sexual assault report the crime to police, highlighting a deep-seated culture of silence and a lack of faith in the justice system. whether additional cinemas will follow suit remains to be seen, but Ito’s film represents a crucial step toward fostering a more open and supportive surroundings for survivors.
