Tokyo-based Medallion Media which acquired the rights to screen "The Cove" documentary in Japan and is in talks with cinemas to bring the film to Japanese audiences as soon as possible.

"The Cove," drew international attention to the brutality of the hunt when it debuted in cinemas in the US, Europe, Oceania and other parts of Asia last summer but was only shown twice in Japan at two small venues last Autumn which included the Tokyo Film Festival.

Marine Connection director Margaux Dodds comments "We are delighted to hear of this possibility as to date, many Japanese people are still unaware of what is happening in their own country. It is time that the Japanese public knew of the annual dolphin slaughter in Taiji and this is a perfect opportunity. Most of the Japanese press refuse to raise awareness about the killings and captures of dolphins for the captivity industry but thanks to the film makers, funders and Ric O Barry, it is now coming a step closer, with the aim and hope to release the movie in Japan in April."

Much of the movie was filmed with hidden cameras over a five-year period and is one of five nominees for best documentary feature at this year's Oscars.

Further information about the Taiji issue can be found here