Shiori Ito’s documentary “Black Box Diaries,” nominated for an Oscar, critically examines the failures of Japan’s justice system regarding sexual assault cases. Despite its international acclaim and availability in over 30 countries, it is notably not being shown in Japan due to distribution challenges and criticism surrounding the filmmaker’s methods. This situation highlights Japan’s historical reluctance to showcase content that presents uncomfortable truths about societal issues.
The Japanese documentary “Black Box Diaries,” directed by journalist Shiori Ito, exposes the failures of Japan’s justice system in handling sexual assault cases. Despite being nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the Academy Awards, it is notably absent from screenings in Japan, making it the first full-length documentary by a Japanese director to receive such recognition without a domestic release. The film recounts Ms. Ito’s personal experience of reporting a rape and the subsequent challenges she faced with authorities.
Initially premiering at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2024, “Black Box Diaries” was released in U.S. theaters in October and is available in over 30 countries. However, it has encountered refusal from Japanese streaming services to distribute the film, and local theaters have shown little interest in showcasing it. Complicating the situation, former supporters of Ms. Ito have publicly criticized her for allegedly using footage without necessary consent, leading to increased difficulties regarding the film’s release in Japan.
This situation is not unprecedented; Japan has previously been hesitant to screen documentaries that present unfavorable portrayals of the country. Previous examples include “The Cove,” which explored dolphin hunting practices and won an Oscar for Best Documentary Feature, and “Unbroken,” which depicted the harsh treatment of Allied prisoners during World War II. Both films did not receive a Japanese release until a considerable time after their American debuts.
In summary, “Black Box Diaries” serves as a vital exploration of the inadequacies in Japan’s sexual assault reporting and justice processes. Its absence from Japanese screens, despite international recognition, underscores the enduring challenges faced by filmmakers addressing sensitive social issues in the nation. Moreover, Ms. Ito’s experience reflects broader concerns regarding the treatment of survivors and their narratives within Japan’s legal and cultural contexts.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
