Kuala Lampur, July 22 -- KUALA LUMPUR, July 22 - Award-winning Japanese drama Kokuho, one of Japan's most acclaimed films of the year, premiered in Malaysia at an exclusive media screening ahead of its nationwide cinema release tomorrow.

Hosted by 8TV in collaboration with Primeworks Studios on July 21, the screening drew more than 200 guests, including members of the media, content creators, film enthusiasts and local celebrities.

Directed by Lee Sang-il and adapted from Shuichi Yoshida's bestselling novel, the 175-minute film is set against the backdrop of Japan's traditional Kabuki theatre and follows the intertwined 50-year journey of two performers pursuing artistic excellence.

The story centres on Kikuo, played by Ryo Yoshizawa, ...