"Heaven's Door" was released in Japanese theaters on February 7, 2009 to mixed press and lukewarm box office, but was praised for its cast, music, cinematography, and sound design. Screen International correspondent Jason Gray concludes, "I think younger audiences will find the tragedy of "Heaven´s Door" palpable... For someone like me who devoured American cinema of the early 70s, tearing up at films like "Thunderbolt and Lightfoot", I might not be the best judge. Who knows, "Heaven's Door" may become the new "Léon" for the teen set here and regarded as a minor indie classic overseas."