One of the most notorious Japanese films of all time is returning to select cinemas this October in a brand new 4K restoration. Thanks to Iconic Events and Lionsgate, the acclaimed (and controversial) horror-thriller Battle Royale will play in theatres across North America on October 12th, 13th, and 15th. Tickets are on sale now via Iconic Events, so check for a screening at your local theatre! Please note: the screenings will be showcasing the film’s theatrical cut in 4K, not the extended director’s cut that was released on home video.
Along with the film, a special rare interview with Kenta Fukasaku, Battle Royale screenwriter and the son of the movie’s director, the late Kinji Fukasaku, will also be presented. This interview, titled Kinji Fukasaku: A Master At Work, will provide audiences with “an intimate look at the forces that shaped the directorial career of his father Kinji Fukasaku, and how they inspired his landmark final movie.” Like the film, the interview itself will be presented in Japanese with English subtitles on screen.
In this special presentation, Kenta-san grants unparalleled access to his father’s history and unique directing approach on the film and reveals how Kinji’s experience in a Japanese munitions factory during World War II informed Kenta’s screenplay, how the 1970’s protest movement inspired the onscreen violence, and how a Japanese youth crime wave at the time played a role in creating the concept and characters.
For those who haven’t seen the film, Battle Royale is “an intense and brutal story about Japanese high school students who are sent off by their government with three days to kill each other — until only one remains.” Through its striking, often times terrifying social commentary and unique blend of action and horror, Battle Royale has continued to inspire filmmakers such as Quentin Tarantino, media like The Hunger Games, and even the “Battle Royale” genre of video games, paving way for Player Unknown Battlegrounds and Fortnite.
Check out the trailer for the new 25th Anniversary screenings below. Check your local theatres for ticket availability!
About Lionsgate
Lionsgate (NYSE: LION) is one of the world’s leading standalone, pure play, publicly traded
content companies. It brings together diversified motion picture and television production and
distribution businesses, a world-class portfolio of valuable brands and franchises, a premier
talent management and production powerhouse at 3 Arts Entertainment and a more than
20,000-title film and television library, all driven by Lionsgate’s bold and entrepreneurial
culture.
About Iconic Events Releasing
Iconic Events Releasing specializes in bringing thrilling, cutting-edge entertainment to theaters
worldwide. With a focus on genre-defining films and special events, Iconic Events Releasing is
dedicated to delivering unforgettable cinematic experiences to audiences everywhere.
To learn more visit: https://iconicreleasing.com/about-us/
