
The Bad News Bears Go to Japan (1978) (Imprint) (Blu-ray Review)
Director: John Berry
Starring: Tony Curtis, Jackie Earle Haley, Tomisaburo Wakayama
RATED: PG/REGION 0/1:78/1080P/NUMBER OF DISCS 1
AVAILABLE FROM Imprint Films

The Bad News Bears Go to Japan is a classic comedy that is sure to delight moviegoers of all ages. Released in 1978, the third installment of the Bad News Bears franchise follows the team of misfit Little Leaguers as they compete in an international tournament held in Tokyo, Japan. Featuring a great cast of characters, a lighthearted storyline, and some classic comedic moments, this film is a must-see for any fan of the series. In this blog post, I will be providing a review of the film and giving my thoughts on why The Bad News Bears Go to Japan is a classic.
Released in 1978, The Bad News Bears Go to Japan marked the third and final installment of the Bad News Bears franchise. This sports comedy takes a fun-filled trip abroad, as the titular characters travel to the Land of the Rising Sun. With its classic slapstick humor, this movie is sure to have you laughing along with its protagonists. One of the best things about The Bad News Bears Go to Japan is its strong cast of characters. Led by Walter Matthau, Tony Curtis, and Jackie Earle Haley as the coach Morris Buttermaker, the players round out the cast as an incredibly likable bunch. They all bring something unique and lovable to the team, and it’s easy to root for them as they strive for victory.

The film also contains some fantastic visuals that capture the beauty of Japan. It’s clear that director John Berry has a deep appreciation for this culture and its traditions. I admit I love the fact that we get to see wrestling legend Antonio Inoki. The Bad News Bears Go to Japan is an underrated classic from the 1970s. It is an enjoyable comedy that serves as a reminder of why The Bad News Bears franchise was so popular in the first place. It’s a fun, family-friendly movie that will make you smile and laugh. If you’re looking for a nostalgic movie to watch, then The Bad News Bears Go to Japan should definitely be at the top of your list. And Imprint brings their A game with the look and overall package with what you get here from this Blu-ray release.
Extras
- 1080p High-definition presentation on Blu-ray
- NEW Audio commentary by film historian Scott Harrison
- NEW America’s Wildest Export: Scoring the Bad News Bears Go To Japan – interview with composer Paul Chihara
- Aspect Ratio 1.78:1
- Audio English LPCM 2.0 Mono
- Optional English subtitles
- Limited Edition slipcase on the first 1500 copies with unique artwork


