Netflix Inks Multi-Picture Deal With Japanese Studio Babel Label

Jan 17 (news84media.com) - Netflix is further boosting its Japanese live-action content slate with a multi-picture deal with Tokyo-based studio Babel Label. The partnership gives Netflix exclusive access to multiple titles produced and created by Babel Label for the next five years.

The studio, a subsidiary launched in 2013 by Japanese media company CyberAgent, is home to creators such as writer-director Michihito Fujii, winner of best director and best film at the 2020 Japan Academy Awards for The Journalist. The film was later adapted by Netflix as a series in 2022.

Netflix has grown increasingly bullish on Japanese live-action content over the past few years. The second season of the streamer’s Japanese sci-fi thriller series Alice in the Borderlands set a new record as the company’s most-watched Japanese show ever, taking the top spot on Netflix’s global non-English TV list with 61.2 million viewing hours over its premiere weekend in late December 2022. Last week, the company kicked off its 2023 Japanese releases with the launch of The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko Housethe first streaming series from acclaimed Japanese auteur Hirokazu Kore-eda (Shoplifters, Broker). ...continue reading

Japan Faces Legal Hurdles in Deploying Military for Bear Control

Japan’s worsening bear problem has prompted calls for national intervention, but legal and operational barriers have complicated the government’s response. In 2025, bear attacks have reached record levels, leaving 12 people dead—double the previous high of six fatalities in 2023.

Moths Threaten Kyoto’s Famous Bamboo Shoots

Kyoto’s prized bamboo shoots, a seasonal delicacy that graces dining tables each spring, are facing an unprecedented crisis this year. The culprit is the Chinese bamboo moth (Sinachiku nomeiga), whose larvae feed on bamboo leaves, weakening the plants and severely reducing harvest yields.

Typhoon No. 25 (Kalmaegi) Moves West, No Direct Impact on Japan

Typhoon No. 25 (Kalmaegi) is currently located east of the Philippines and moving west-northwest. The storm is expected to continue on a westward track, passing near the Philippines before entering the South China Sea. Weather agencies forecast that the typhoon will not have a direct impact on Japan.

Shibuya Crowds Subdued in Rain Soaked Halloween

Halloween Eve in Shibuya still drew a festive atmosphere, with people gathering in costume and enjoying the night. Tokyo police deployed several hundred officers, including the well-known “DJ police,” to manage the crowds and prevent congestion at the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing.

Takaichi and Xi Hold 10-Second Handshake

Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi and Chinese President Xi Jinping stood side by side before the cameras on October 31st at 5 p.m. for a moment that drew intense attention. “Hello, please this way,” said Xi as the two leaders exchanged a handshake lasting roughly 10 seconds in front of their national flags. Takaichi’s expression was stiff at first but softened slightly into a faint smile, while Xi’s face remained largely unchanged.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Entertainment NEWS

Film Director Junji Sakamoto Awarded Purple Ribbon

The recipients of this autumn’s Medals of Honor have been announced, with film director Junji Sakamoto, known for works such as 'A Chorus of Angels,' received the Medal with Purple Ribbon, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the fields of art, culture, and sports.

Atom Statue Heads to Awaji Island

The symbolic Atom statue that stood atop the Pasona Pavilion at the Osaka-Kansai Expo has been removed, marking the next step in the relocation of its exhibits to Awaji Island.

Tear-Jerking Shampoo Ad Moves Millions Online

Kao’s long-running shampoo brand “Merit” has captured wide attention with its television commercial titled “Family, Love, and Merit,” which has now surpassed 3 million views online. The ad, rendered in a soft illustration style and set to Ringo Sheena’s song “Theory of Happiness,” has been praised on social media for its emotional impact and relatable message about everyday family life.

Japan 80s | The Colorful Happy years in HD

A happy City Pop mix of the 70s, 80s and 90s | 昭和 (TRNGL)

Danjūrō's Tour and Other October Performances!

Let's have a look at all the remaining October performances! (Kabuki In-Depth)

Harajuku fashion | Real Footage of Japanese street style in late 80s | Restored

The emergence of Harajuku fashion originated under the motto of dressing freely, without having to follow established social norms. (TRNGL)

150 Guitarists Unite From Across Japan

A musical event that brought together about 150 professional and amateur musicians was held on October 25th in Toyokawa, Aichi Prefecture. Participants performed as one large band, creating a lively atmosphere inside a shopping mall.

Scaled-Back K-Pop Event in Nara Showcases Cultural Bonds

A Japan-Korea exchange event organized by Nara Prefecture was held on October 24th, featuring performances by K-pop artists and traditional entertainers from both countries to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Nara’s friendship agreement with South Chungcheong Province in South Korea.

< 2 3 4 5 >