Some iTunes URL generate 404 response from python but still work when you browse them from a web browser
I found a way to bypass it. 
It seems that itunes is sending back a 404 response for some applications, especially (from what i've seen) if they have restricted content such as gambling.

the way get around it is instead of sending a request to the main apple store like here 


  https://itunes.apple.com/app/id1029783189?mt=8


one should send the request to the local appstore.
In this example case, the Australian one:


  https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/id1029783189


Thanks for everyone who tried to help.