Taiwan Tensions Impact Japanese Cinema: Major Film Releases Delayed in China

A major setback for Japanese cinema has occurred as the releases of at least two popular films have been postponed in China due to escalating tensions surrounding Taiwan. The affected films, Cells at Work! and Crayon Shin-chan the Movie: Super Hot! The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers, were slated for release soon but have now been delayed, as reported by CCTV, a state media outlet.

The controversy intensified after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi made comments suggesting that Japan could take military action if Beijing were to attack Taiwan. Such remarks sparked backlash, as Beijing views Taiwan as a part of its territory. In addition, ticket sales for another major Japanese animation, Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle, have slumped amid the row, highlighting a growing discontent among Chinese audiences.

With reports pointing to a reassessment from film distributors regarding the future of Japanese films in China, the postponement reflects a careful consideration of public sentiment and political climate. The situation is further complicated by China’s reaction, which has included advising its citizens to avoid travel to Japan and warning students against studying there due to alleged safety concerns.

Japan has been heavily reliant on Chinese tourism, with nearly 7.5 million visitors recorded in the first nine months of the year, making this fallout from the Taiwan issue particularly impactful. While Beijing insists Taiwan will eventually be reunited with the Mainland, many Taiwanese view themselves as a separate entity, with most preferring the current state of status quo, neither declaring independence nor seeking reunification.