**Controversy Surrounds Japanese MeToo Documentary Before Home Screening**

**Despite its Oscar buzz, Shiori Ito’s Black Box Diaries remains unseen in Japan as it navigates allegations of unauthorized footage and societal backlash.**

Japanese journalist Shiori Ito's Oscar-nominated documentary, Black Box Diaries, while praised globally, continues to face significant obstacles in its home country of Japan. The film, which chronicles Ito's personal battle against sexual violence and her journey through the legal system after accusing prominent journalist Noriyuki Yamaguchi of rape, has not yet been screened in Japan, stirring up considerable controversy.

Ito emerged as a key figure in Japan's MeToo movement following her public allegations against Yamaguchi, who has consistently denied his wrongdoing. Her documentary presents a candid retelling of her experiences, shedding light on the challenges faced by sexual assault survivors in Japan's conservative society, notably after authorities failed to pursue criminal charges against Yamaguchi.

However, the film's release has been marred by accusations from Ito's former legal team, who claim that she used audio and video footage without the necessary permissions. They argue that this betrayal of trust could jeopardize future sexual assault cases as victims may be deterred from coming forward if they fear their privacy could be compromised. Despite this backlash, Ito maintains that her use of the footage is aimed at benefiting the public discourse surrounding sexual violence.

The editing and production of Black Box Diaries proved to be a harrowing experience for Ito, who likened the process to "hardcore exposure therapy." Her evidence includes crucial CCTV footage recorded on the night of the alleged attack, which she deems essential in showcasing the reality of her ordeal. While she has expressed remorse for the implications of using sensitive material, she believes it serves a critical role in highlighting the systemic issues within the justice system regarding sexual assault claims.

Japan's reluctance to distribute the film may not solely stem from Ito’s legal battles; it reflects the broader challenge in addressing the stigma around sexual violence in Japanese culture. Observers note a slow, albeit significant, shift in societal norms, with recent legislative changes re-defining rape and enhancing the legal age of consent. The outcry and backlash faced by survivors like Ito point to the obstacles that continue to exist in securing justice.

As of now, Ito has committed to revising parts of the documentary for a redacted version that protects individual identities, working toward releasing it in Japan. She expressed her hope that one day the film could be screened for a home audience, conveying her perspective as a "love letter to Japan" rather than mere cinematic recognition. Despite the ongoing struggles, Ito's advocacy illustrates the enduring fight for women's rights and the need for reform in Japan's approach to sexual violence.