'' Cowboy Bebop : The Movie '' was first released in cinemas in Japan on September 1 , 2001 . After the film 's international release , this date was subject to debate in the western fanbase due to its proximity to the September 11 attacks . It was first shown to the west at the 2002 AnimeCon , where it was announced that the original English cast would reprise their roles . Its Japanese subtitle , " Knockin ' on Heaven 's Door " , was changed for the western release due to sharing its name with the 1973 Bob Dylan song of the same name . Instead of creating a new subtitle , the team settled with using " '' The Movie '' " , though a November 2018 rerelease of the film by Funimation features the original subtitle . During its initial screening at the event , it sold out completely , prompting a second screening later in the event . The film received a limited theatrical release in the United States , opening on April 4 , 2003 . During its opening weekend , it reached 19th place in the box office chart , bringing in $ 12,338 per screening . The film 's total gross in America was $ 1,000,045 . Its worldwide gross totals $ 3,007,903
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
Cowboy Bebop: The Movie