Which film company handled Michael’s theatrical distribution in Japan?

Kino Films handled the theatrical distribution of Michael in Japan.

Michael had different distributors in different territories. Lionsgate handled the United States, Universal Pictures handled international distribution in many markets, and Kino Films secured the Japanese distribution deal. This territorial arrangement is common for major films, particularly when a studio works with local distributors that understand a specific national theatrical market.

Kino Films agreed to distribute the Michael Jackson biopic in Japan in July 2024. Japan was therefore treated separately from the broader international distribution agreement announced for Universal Pictures.

Kino Films should not be confused with Lionsgate or Universal. Lionsgate was the United States distributor, while Universal Pictures handled the international territories covered by its agreement. The Japanese release arrangement was an additional territory-specific deal connected with Lionsgate and GK Films.