Photo/Illutration A scene from “Higuma!” ((c) 2025 movie “Higuma!” production committee)

The recent spate of deadly bear attacks across Japan prompted filmmakers to postpone the release of a sometimes stomach-churning movie partly dedicated to the issue.

With nine people already killed by bears in Japan this year, the producers plan to release “Higuma!” (Brown Bear!) in January, rather than November.

They cited public disquiet over the surge in attacks and fatalities.

When production kicked off in 2023, the idea was to highlight two growing trends: “yamibaito” dark part-time jobs used by criminal enterprises to ensnare young people into work scams, and wild animals being pushed out of their natural habitat.

The movie was due to hit movie screens from Nov. 21, but on Oct. 24 the producers announced a postponement.

The movie’s cast of young stars includes Fuku Suzuki in the lead role, along with Wan Marui, Takashi Ukaji and Fusako Urabe.

In the movie, young people who sign up for dubious part-time jobs end up in the Hokkaido wilderness where they are attacked by a brown bear.

While much of the film has a comedic touch, it also features grisly scenes from a brown bear attack where a person’s arm is chewed off.

The plot also delves into social issues: human encroachment into the wild bear habitat, which is blamed for the attacks in the first place, as well as the nominal fee paid to licensed hunters to kill bears that have tasted human blood.

In a statement in August, the producers said they were well aware that audiences could find some scenes uncomfortable, given the nearly-daily reports of bear attacks.

The statement said additional discussions would be held to decide when and how to publicize the movie.

Discussions about pushing back the release date began in earnest in early October.

One aim of the movie was to make young viewers realize the dangers of yamibaito. But there were also fears audiences might focus on the bear attacks instead.

A preview screening was held on Oct. 7. Just days later, three people were found dead in Iwate Prefecture, all apparent victims of a bear attack.

Other incidents that left people injured occurred in Gunma and Akita prefectures.

With fears of more possible attacks, the producers decided to delay releasing the movie until bears are hibernating.

“We decided viewers would be more willing to accept the movie if it was released during a period when bears are not as active,” said one insider. “We want people to realize that extreme caution is needed when encountering these animals.” 

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