Will Japan's Movie Releases in China Suffer Due to Taiwan Tensions?

The recent postponement of the releases for popular Japanese films in China, including *Cells at Work!* and *Crayon Shin-chan the Movie: Super Hot! The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers*, highlights the growing tensions between the two nations. This situation is rooted in comments made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan, which have sparked significant backlash in China, resulting in declining ticket sales and uncertainty for upcoming Japanese films.

Last updated: 07 November 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As diplomatic relations between Japan and China deteriorate, film distributors in China have postponed the releases of certain Japanese films. This decision follows comments made by Prime Minister Takaichi, who suggested that Japan could respond militarily if China were to attack Taiwan. The postponements come at a time when Chinese audiences are reportedly expressing strong dissatisfaction with Japanese media, leading to a significant impact on ticket sales for Japanese films, including the much-anticipated *Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle*.

Key takeaways

• Two Japanese films have had their releases postponed in China due to diplomatic tensions.
• Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks about Taiwan have been a catalyst for the fallout.
• Chinese audiences have shown strong dissatisfaction with Japanese content in light of recent events.
• Tourism and retail sectors in Japan are feeling the adverse effects of strained relations with China.

Timeline: how we got here

The current situation can be traced back to key events leading up to the recent film release postponements:

• 7 November 2023: Takaichi makes controversial remarks in parliament regarding Taiwan, suggesting potential military action.
• Early November 2023: Chinese state media report on the postponement of the releases of *Cells at Work!* and *Crayon Shin-chan the Movie*.
• November 2023: Chinese authorities advise citizens against travelling to Japan, citing safety concerns.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The postponement of Japanese film releases in China is a recent development, directly linked to Takaichi's remarks that have inflamed tensions. *Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle* is facing a decline in ticket sales, although its release status remains unclear.

What was already established

Historically, Japan and China have had a complex relationship, often strained by territorial disputes and differing views on Taiwan. The popularity of Japanese films in China has been a significant cultural exchange, but recent political statements have jeopardised this exchange.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

UK audiences who enjoy Japanese films may find it more challenging to access new releases due to the potential delay in international distribution. The broader implications for UK-China relations could affect trade and cultural exchanges.

Businesses and jobs

Companies involved in importing and distributing Japanese films in the UK may face uncertainty as the situation evolves. Reduced tourism from China could also impact UK businesses that rely on Chinese visitors.

Policy and regulation

As tensions rise, UK policymakers may need to navigate the implications of Japan's diplomatic strategies and their effects on trade relations with China. Upcoming discussions in Parliament may focus on how to support UK businesses facing pressure from these international developments.

Numbers that matter

• 7.5 million: The number of Chinese tourists who visited Japan in the first nine months of 2023, highlighting the significance of Chinese tourism to the Japanese economy.
• Two: The number of popular Japanese films postponed due to diplomatic tensions.
• Strong dissatisfaction: A phrase used by Chinese media to describe audience reactions to Japanese films in light of Takaichi's comments.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Diplomatic tensions: Strained relations between countries, often due to political disagreements.
• Tourism sector: The industry related to travel for leisure, business, or other purposes, which can be significantly affected by international relations.
• Demon Slayer: A popular Japanese anime and manga series that has garnered a large international following.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, observers should closely monitor any further statements from Takaichi or Chinese officials, as these could lead to additional film release postponements.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the situation evolves, potential retaliatory actions from China could emerge, impacting not only the film industry but also broader economic ties between Japan, China, and the UK.

Signals to watch

• Any new statements from Japanese or Chinese government officials regarding Taiwan.
• Changes in ticket sales for Japanese films in China.
• Developments in the tourism sector and related advisories for travel to Japan.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed about the evolving diplomatic situation between Japan and China.
• Consider supporting local film industries if access to Japanese films becomes limited.

Don’t

• Assume that the current tensions will resolve quickly; historical context suggests otherwise.
• Overlook the potential economic impact on businesses reliant on international film distribution.

Checklist

• Check for updates on film release schedules.
• Monitor ticket sales for Japanese films in China.
• Be aware of travel advisories if planning to visit Japan.
• Follow news on diplomatic relations between Japan and China.
• Engage with cultural events that promote understanding between nations.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The current situation is fluid, and statements from both the Japanese and Chinese governments could change rapidly. The impact of these tensions on the film industry is uncertain; while some films may face delays, others may still be released depending on how the political landscape evolves. Additionally, the reactions of audiences in both countries may shift as events unfold.

Bottom line

The postponement of Japanese film releases in China underscores the complex interplay between politics and culture. As tensions rise between Japan and China, audiences may need to adjust their expectations for upcoming films and remain vigilant about the broader implications for international relations.

FAQs

Why were Japanese films postponed in China?

The postponement of Japanese films in China was primarily due to diplomatic tensions arising from comments made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan.

What films have been affected by the postponement?

The films affected include *Cells at Work!* and *Crayon Shin-chan the Movie: Super Hot! The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers*, with uncertain status for *Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle*.

How is this situation impacting UK audiences?

UK audiences may face delays in accessing new Japanese films, and there may be broader implications for UK-China relations affecting trade and cultural exchanges.