1. The Motion Picture Producers Association of Japan has chosen a movie set in the world of kabuki, titled “Kokuho,” as Japan’s contender for the Best International Feature Film category at next year’s Academy Awards. “Kokuho,” which means national treasure, portrays the life and career of a kabuki performer. Born into a yakuza family and later adopted b a kabuki actor, he dedicates his life to the stage and ultimately achieves recognition as a living national treasure. The film is based on a novel by Yoshida Shuichi.
2. Tokyo police say a man riding in a Shinkansen bullet train sustained a slight burn on Thursday morning when he tried to stop smoke from spewing out of a battery charger that was in his suitcase.
3. China says 26 foreign leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, are expected to attend the Victory Day military parade in Beijing next Wednesday.