W2TCH

999 Essential Japanese Films Collection

998 titles

Default order ↑PopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox office
  1. 901Woods Are WetMovie · 1973 · 65mAfter committing a crime, Sachiko confides in a couple who offer assistance. However, the couple soon turn the tables, using her trust to blackmail her and threaten to report her to the police. Left with no other option, Sachiko is forced to comply with their demands.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.0
  2. 902My Neighbors the YamadasMovie · 1999 · 104m · Animation, Comedy, Family"The Yamadas" is a Japanese animated film about an everyday urban middle-class family in Tokyo. It presents a series of connected stories showing the family's struggles with both ordinary and important challenges. The film blends humor with heartfelt moments, revealing how the Yamadas deal with life's ups and downs – from funny mistakes to emotional experiences. Through these varied events, "The Yamadas" offers a clear picture of family relationships and how people overcome difficulties, resonating with audiences everywhere.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0
  3. 903War and YouthMovie · 1991 · 112mA mechanic's daughter presses her father for details about her aunt's wartime experiences, but he avoids the subject. Eventually, he shares the truth, allowing the daughter to understand her aunt's heartbreaking past.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.2
  4. 904Godzilla vs. King GhidorahMovie · 1991 · 103m · Action, Adventure, Science FictionIn a future where time travel exists, a team called The Futurians travels to ancient Japan with a critical warning. They tell the Japanese people about the destruction Godzilla will bring. To prevent this, the Futurians offer to help eliminate Godzilla by stopping him before he appears. But after they succeed in erasing Godzilla from history, a darker plan is revealed. It turns out the Futurians intended not just to save Japan, but to create a new threat. The film blends suspense, drama, and action to explore time manipulation, hidden motives, and the effects of changing the past. The story takes viewers on a thrilling journey, questioning whether it's right to alter destiny.Stream onIMDb 6.5TMDB 6.9
  5. 905Hara-Kiri: Death of a SamuraiMovie · 2011 · 128m · Drama, HistoryThis is a story about revenge, honor, and shame. It follows a poor samurai who learns what happened to his son-in-law, a wandering warrior. This discovery triggers a dangerous confrontation with the family of a powerful feudal lord.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2
  6. 906The Geisha HouseMovie · 1999 · 113mIn a Kyoto geisha house after World War II, the young Omocha begins her demanding training as a geiko or maiko. She must deal with complicated relationships within the geisha community and a rigid social order, all while the house tries to preserve its traditions. As Japan modernizes, the residents face growing pressure to adapt to a changing national culture.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.4
  7. 907One Million Yen GirlMovie · 2008 · 121m · DramaNewly released from prison, a 21-year-old woman faces judgment from her community and struggles with her family. Determined to escape this life, she sets a goal: to save one million yen, relocate to a new place, and start over again.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1
  8. 908The Devil's PathMovie · 2013 · 128m · Thriller, CrimeFrom death row, inmate Sudo writes to magazine reporter Fujii, claiming a man named Kimura – known as "teacher" – committed many murders for insurance money. Intrigued, Fujii investigates, becoming convinced Sudo's letter is accurate. However, considerable time has passed, and Sudo’s account is vague. Driven by Sudo's persistence, a former yakuza, and Fujii's determination, the police finally begin to investigate.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.5
  9. 909August in the WaterMovie · 1995 · 117mAfter a life-altering accident, a teenage girl develops extraordinary abilities and begins to discover her purpose within the vastness of existence.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.8
  10. 910KeihoMovie · 1999 · 133mA young actor arrested for a brutal double murder undergoes psychiatric evaluation, leading to concerns about his fitness for trial. Subsequent investigation reveals the crime was a deliberate act intended to protest Japan's laws regarding diminished responsibility for those with mental impairments.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.0
  11. 911Wolf ChildrenMovie · 2012 · 117m · Animation, Family, DramaFollowing the sudden death of her werewolf lover in an accident, a woman is left to raise their two children. Their inheritance of their father’s traits creates unforeseen difficulties for her.Stream onIMDb 8.1TMDB 8.2
  12. 912Phone Call to the BarMovie · 2011 · 125mIn Sapporo's Susukino red-light district, private detective Yo Oizumi meets his driver Takada in their usual bar for drinks. He receives a call from a woman named Kyoko Kondo who asks him to do something straightforward. Sensing no danger, Oizumi accepts the case. The following day, he begins his investigation.IMDb 6.3TMDB 7.2
  13. 913Welcome Back, Mr. McDonaldMovie · 1997 · 103m · ComedyThis story centers on a devoted housewife who writes a deeply personal love story exploring the full spectrum of human feelings. When the story is chosen for a radio drama broadcast, it offers a chance to connect with many listeners and discuss the power of love. But as the production team assembles, individual preferences lead to changes in the script. Each member wants to modify aspects of the play to fit their own ideas, potentially damaging the author's original vision. As the radio drama nears its premiere, the narrative explores the challenges of collaboration and the fight to maintain artistic integrity. It examines themes of self-expression, identity, and the tension between staying true to oneself and conforming to others.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.6
  14. 914Coup d'EtatMovie · 1973 · 110mThis is a free-flowing look at Ikki Kita, the nationalist thinker whose ideas fueled the unsuccessful military uprising of 1936.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.4
  15. 915Maison Ikkoku - Apartment FantasyMovie · 1986 · 97mA look inside a bizarre Japanese apartment building introduces a cast of eccentric residents. There's Kyoko, the alluring and enigmatic new manager; Yusaku, a stressed-out college student obsessed with exams; Mrs. Ichinose, a perpetually tipsy woman who loves to gossip; her spoiled son, Kentaro; Akemi, a bar hostess with a fondness for alcohol; and Mr. Yotsuya, a freeloading man with a penchant for voyeurism.IMDb 6.7TMDB 4.8
  16. 916The Drudgery TrainMovie · 2012 · 114mKanta, a charismatic high school dropout, forms an unexpected friendship with the gentle Shoji. Their bond helps them both grow more confident, particularly when it comes to relationships. Kanta, from a working-class background, becomes a defiant figure, holding onto his pride and self-belief despite facing a difficult future.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.1
  17. 917For Love's SakeMovie · 2012 · 133m · Drama, Romance, MusicHaunted by a past tragedy, troubled high school student Makoto travels to Tokyo to seek revenge. There, he is instantly captivated by Ai, a young woman from a loving family. Their budding romance is complicated by the presence of Iwashimizu, who harbors feelings for Ai, and Gamuko, a gang member who becomes fixated on Makoto.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.9
  18. 918Ryoma's Wife, Her Husband and Her LoverMovie · 2002 · 115mThis film centers on Sakamoto Ryōma, with a particular focus on Oryo, the maid who became his wife. She lived with him for one year before his death.IMDb 6.9
  19. 919Osaka StoryMovie · 1999 · 119mWakana is the daughter of a comedic duo who have struggled for twenty years to achieve fame. Her parents are constantly arguing, and her mother frequently threatens to leave. When her father suddenly disappears, Wakana decides to search for him.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.0
  20. 920A Touch of FeverMovie · 1993 · 114mThe easy friendship between Tatsuru and Shinichiro becomes more complicated as romantic feelings develop, making it difficult to separate their professional and personal lives.Stream onIMDb 6.2TMDB 5.5
  21. 921Solomon's Perjury 1: SuspicionMovie · 2015 · 121mWhen a classmate dies, a group of junior high students investigate to determine if it was a homicide or a suicide.IMDb 6.6TMDB 7.0
  22. 922Summer Vacation 1999Movie · 1988 · 90mThree teenage boys, left alone at their boarding school for the summer, find themselves isolated and without adult supervision. Their solitude takes a dark turn with the arrival of a new student who bears an uncanny resemblance to a classmate who died by suicide months prior. This unexpected presence unravels the hidden relationships, rivalries, and emotional complexities of adolescence.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.7
  23. 923Farewell to the ArkMovie · 1984 · 127mIn a secluded village, a sense of the uncanny lingers as people begin to abandon their shared customs and beliefs in favor of life in the city. Two cousins, deeply fond of each other, find themselves at odds with other villagers after a disagreement.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8
  24. 924Solomon's Perjury 2: JudgmentMovie · 2015 · 149mWhen a classmate dies, a group of junior high students investigate to determine if his death was the result of foul play or suicide.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.7
  25. 925RebirthMovie · 2011 · 147mFollowing the end of an affair, Kiwako takes the 6-month-old child of the man she was involved with. She raises the child as her own for four years before authorities discover them.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.6
  26. 926La Maison de HimikoMovie · 2005 · 130mSaori is a young woman trying to build a life for herself. Her father, Himiko, left her and her mother years ago. Now, Himiko's new partner, Haruhiko, arrives with news that Himiko is dying of cancer. Though still hurt by her father's abandonment, Saori needs money and travels to the House of Himiko, a nursing home Himiko created for gay men. Slowly, a fragile connection forms between Saori, her father, and Haruhiko.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.1
  27. 927Mahjong HorokiMovie · 1984 · 109mA beginner at mahjong is utterly defeated by the game master, losing everything he holds dear. Determined to regain what was lost, he relentlessly trains, mastering the game. He then confronts every challenge he can find, meticulously planning for a final, decisive match against his tormentor.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5
  28. 928Takeshis'Movie · 2005 · 108m · Comedy, Drama, FantasyBeat Takeshi navigates the hectic and occasionally bizarre world of fame. He encounters Kitano, a quiet convenience store worker who bears a striking resemblance to him. Kitano, an aspiring actor still seeking his opportunity, starts experiencing vivid dreams of living as Beat after their meeting.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.1
  29. 929Three Stories of LoveMovie · 2015 · 140mThis film explores the lives of three people grappling with loneliness. A grieving widower, a woman feeling trapped in her marriage, and a gay lawyer each find their paths unexpectedly intertwined.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.9
  30. 930The UnbrokenMovie · 2009 · 202mDue to his work leading a labor union for National Air Line, Onchi was sent on assignments across Asia and Africa, effectively exiled. After ten years, he's ordered back to headquarters but continues to face difficulties. When a National Air Line plane suffers the worst air disaster in Japanese history, he's tasked with comforting the families of the victims and providing compensation.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.7
  31. 931VibratorMovie · 2003 · 94mRei, a writer struggling with inner turmoil, battles insomnia, eating disorders, and a constant barrage of voices in her head. On Valentine's Day, she encounters truck driver Takatoshi and impulsively joins him on a trip in his rickety truck. The vehicle’s jarring movements seem to mirror Rei’s own emotional instability.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.9
  32. 932Gate of YouthMovie · 1981 · 140mShinsuke experiences a difficult life as a poor coal miner from infancy to his mid-teens. The mines and the coal workers are central to his world. His father, a mine leader, dies heroically while rescuing trapped Korean miners with dynamite. Several older men, including a kind yakuza boss who rides a Harley, try to support Shinsuke and his mother. This film features drama, romance, sex, yakuza elements, and violence. It is adapted from a story by Hiroyuki Itsuki, originally published in Shukan Gendai magazine in 1969-70.IMDb 6.5TMDB 7.3
  33. 933Achilles and the TortoiseMovie · 2008 · 120m · Comedy, DramaMachisu is a painter who feels he deserves more recognition than he's achieved. Despite his lack of success, he persistently strives for it. His wife, Sachiko, consistently supports him through every disappointment.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0
  34. 934Robinson's GardenMovie · 1987 · 119mKumi lives a free-spirited life in the Tokyo suburbs. One night, while intoxicated, she wanders into a forgotten industrial area. Instead of just empty factories, she discovers it's overgrown with forests and plants. She decides to relocate there, seeking even greater distance from the world she's already distanced herself from.Stream onIMDb 6.4TMDB 6.4
  35. 935The Chef of South PolarMovie · 2009 · 125m · Drama, ComedyEight men are sent to live far from home, in extremely cold conditions. With food as their only focus, it becomes essential to their survival.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.1
  36. 936800 Two Lap RunnersMovie · 1994 · 110mThis is a coming-of-age story following Kenji and Ryuji, two runners whose lives become intertwined through love, loss, and competition. The film explores their complicated feelings and relationships as they grow.IMDb 6.8TMDB 3.5
  37. 937Pleasures of the FleshMovie · 1965 · 91mFollowing a murder, businessman Atsushi is forced to safeguard a suitcase full of stolen money. This leads him down a path of impulsive and sensual choices, ultimately filled with remorse.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 5.6
  38. 938A New Love in TokyoMovie · 1994 · 115mThe film explores the lives of two sex workers in Tokyo: Rei, who works as an S&M dominatrix, and Ayumi, who is a call girl. It follows their professional lives alongside their personal ones. Rei participates in an amateur theatre company with the receptionist from Ayumi's escort service, while Ayumi lives with her student-boyfriend as he strives to gain college acceptance.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.6
  39. 939Death by HangingMovie · 1968 · 118m · Comedy, DramaA Korean man is wrongly convicted of a crime in Japan and sentenced to death. Unexpectedly, he survives the execution, throwing the Japanese authorities into chaos. The film follows a tense chase as the protagonist evades Japanese officials desperate to conceal his survival from the public and within their own corrupt system. While fighting to prove his innocence, he uncovers the dark forces behind his false conviction. The movie explores themes of justice, identity, and cultural differences, building suspense with its intricate plot and compelling characters. It's a gripping story about challenging societal norms and the consequences when the impossible occurs.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4
  40. 940Dogs & CatsMovie · 2004 · 94mSuzu lives with her fiancé, Furuta, until one day she leaves without a word. She ends up moving into the apartment of her friend Abe, but he's away. Now, Suzu shares the apartment with Yoko, who has lived there since Abe left. Suzu and Yoko, who have known each other since childhood and both secretly love Furuta, now find themselves living together.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.0
  41. 941The KingdomMovie · 1973 · 87mGoku, a well-known poet, experiences a sharp downturn in his mood after his editor makes a lighthearted remark implying he's compromised his artistic integrity.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.3
  42. 942The Black HouseMovie · 1999 · 118mA shy insurance agent begins looking into a potential insurance fraud case linked to a death. As he uncovers more information, he becomes increasingly afraid.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.0
  43. 943The Man Who Left His Will on FilmMovie · 1970 · 94mA man pursues the thief who stole his movie camera, leading to a suicide jump from a building. Following the incident, police seize the camera as evidence, raising doubts about whether a theft actually occurred.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 5.7
  44. 944Love LetterMovie · 1995 · 117m · Drama, RomanceGrieving the death of her fiancé, Itsuki Fujii, in a mountaineering accident, Hiroko attends his memorial. She learns their shared home has been demolished, but discovers an old address for Itsuki in his high school yearbook. Writing a letter to him, she's surprised to receive a reply. The unexpected sender is not Itsuki, but another girl with the same name and surname – also named Itsuki Fujii, a former classmate of her fiancé. This strange turn of events begins Hiroko's journey to uncover the mystery surrounding these two people who shared the same identity.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8
  45. 945Tora-san's Dear Old HomeMovie · 1972 · 108mSakura and Hiroshi are working hard to save money so they can build a house. Meanwhile, while traveling, Torajiro forms friendships with three young women who are on vacation.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.5
  46. 946A Fugitive from the PastMovie · 1965 · 183m · Crime, Drama, MysteryA team of expert criminals executes a daring heist, escaping with a fortune in cash. But when one robber plots to kill his partners and keep all the money, betrayal ensues. The discovery of bodies on a beach near a major shipwreck draws the attention of a determined police officer, who suspects a deeper story behind the events. The film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the search for truth amidst crime and disaster, delivering a compelling cinematic experience.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.3
  47. 947Thousand and One NightsMovie · 2022 · 126mTomiko, a woman in her middle years, has spent thirty years waiting for her husband to come home. She lives alone in a fading fishing town, continuing her relentless search for him. Then, she encounters Nami, a woman whose own husband has vanished.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.7
  48. 948Unlucky MonkeyMovie · 1998 · 106mThis dark comedy follows Yamazaki, an inexperienced bank robber whose ill-fated heist unexpectedly yields 80 million yen thanks to a series of improbable accidents. Suddenly wealthy, Yamazaki finds his life complicated when he accidentally stabs a hairdresser and becomes a fugitive. Can this unlucky man somehow manage to turn his luck around?IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.5
  49. 949Sanrizuka: Heta VillageMovie · 1973 · 146mShinsuke Ogawa's documentary chronicles the lives of farmers in Heta Village as they resist being displaced to make way for the expansion of Narita Airport.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.2
  50. 950I Just Didn't Do ItMovie · 2007 · 143m · DramaA young man is wrongly accused of indecent behavior towards a high school girl on a train. He's arrested and charged with the crime, and faces a relentless series of court hearings, consistently maintaining his innocence.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4
  51. 951Confessions Among ActressesMovie · 1971 · 124mThis Japanese film delves into the world of actresses and the appeal of inhabiting different personas. The lives of three actresses are examined through a blend of personal interviews and glimpses into their daily experiences. Each woman has a history of trauma that informs her connection to dramatic roles, offering a unique sense of fulfillment in transforming herself for the screen.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.7
  52. 952No One's ArkMovie · 2003 · 111mDaisuke and his girlfriend are struggling to sell their pungent health drink, Akajiru, and now owe five million yen. To get back on their feet, they return to Daisuke's island home.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.3
  53. 953Living in Two WorldsMovie · 2024 · 106m · DramaGrowing up in a close-knit small town, Dai acts as an interpreter for his devoted deaf parents. Seeking independence, he eventually moves to Tokyo to forge his own path.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.4
  54. 954Battle CryMovie · 1975 · 93mIn 1868, during the military portion of the Meiji Restoration, Sentaro joins a local militia supporting the Tokugawa Shogunate and fights against the Imperial troops. However, his friendship with a shifting pickpocket creates problems. Their infiltration of enemy territory puts Sentaro's life at risk.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.0
  55. 955Death at an Old MansionMovie · 1975 · 106mThe morning after their wedding, a woman and her groom are discovered murdered in their bed. Snow fell overnight, erasing any footprints. An amateur detective must solve the mystery, methodically piecing together clues in this locked-room puzzle.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.8
  56. 956The RebirthMovie · 2007 · 102mGrief-stricken after his daughter's murder at school, a widower unexpectedly encounters the mother of the killer when he relocates to a small town in Hokkaido.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.8
  57. 957The Sea of GenkaiMovie · 1976 · 122mTwo members of a Japanese organized crime syndicate encounter an unexpected arrival – a stowaway who has crossed the Genkai Sea. One of the yakuza frequently dwells on a painful history involving his exploitation of Korean women.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.0
  58. 958A Quiet LifeMovie · 1995 · 121mThis is a family drama following a young man with a mental disability and his sister. Their lives are upended when their renowned novelist father and homemaker mother travel to Australia for work.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 7.4
  59. 959Traffic JamMovie · 1991 · 108mA dedicated salaryman takes five days off work for a New Year's visit to his parents in his hometown with his wife and two children in 1991. To save money, they plan a car trip. However, the journey from Tokyo is plagued by traffic, illness, and other setbacks, extending the trip far beyond expectations. Arriving three days later, they only have a brief but joyful time together.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.0
  60. 960A Night In Nude: SalvationMovie · 2010 · 145mA beautiful mother and her two daughters run a bar in a small town, dreaming of wealth and a life of celebrity after renovating the building. Unable to achieve their goals through honest work, they secretly engage in a scheme to get rich quickly by murdering people, using their beauty to deceive their victims. But their carefully planned scheme begins to unravel with a single, small mistake.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.1
  61. 961The Temple of the Golden PavillionMovie · 1976 · 110mSet in post-war Japan, the story follows Mizoguchi, the son of a Buddhist priest. Following his father's death, he is sent to the Temple of the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto. Mizoguchi, feeling physically inadequate, develops a complex, almost envious attachment to the beautiful temple.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.3
  62. 962Empire of PassionMovie · 1978 · 105m · Drama, Romance, HorrorIn rural Japan at the end of the 19th century, a woman's life in a small village is disrupted by changing social norms. She becomes involved in a secret relationship with a younger man whose intense feelings hide a dangerous plan. As their affair deepens, a plot to kill her husband emerges, aiming to give her freedom from societal constraints. The film explores themes of desire, betrayal, and the impact of choices, set against a backdrop where love and sacrifice become intertwined in a world facing an uncertain future.Stream onIMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9
  63. 963The Chrysanthemum and the GuillotineMovie · 2018 · 189mFollowing the widespread disruption caused by the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake, a surprising bond forms between Kiku and Tokachi, two female sumo wrestlers, and the anarchist collective known as the Guillotine Society.Stream onIMDb 6.2TMDB 6.2
  64. 964Kitamura Tokoku: My Winter SongMovie · 1977 · 103mThe film focuses on New Year's Day, 1894, as Kitamura recovers from a suicide attempt. Japan is gripped by patriotic fervor, with the government pushing for war with China. Kitamura's literary friends and activist companions visit him, questioning his desire to end his life. Initially reluctant, he eventually meets with them to reflect on his past: his years as a civil rights activist, his turbulent romantic relationships, and his passionate, self-destructive pursuit of a life dedicated to literature.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.0
  65. 965Eros EternaMovie · 1977 · 90mA woman who believes herself to be a legendary immortal nun draws people seeking solutions to their personal problems.IMDb 6.1TMDB 4.3
  66. 966Tokyo TrialMovie · 1983 · 277mDirector Masaki Kobayashi delivers a powerful documentary examining a pivotal period in modern Japanese history: the trial of Japanese militarists accused of war crimes. Kobayashi and his team meticulously reviewed 30,000 reels of footage from the International Military Tribunal, held between 1946 and 1948. The charges against 100 alleged war criminals took two days to read, and the final verdict required a full week.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 6.8
  67. 967The Love and Adventures of Kuroki TaroMovie · 1977 · 110mTaro Kuroki, a 42-year-old stuntman with a spirited nature, thrives on adventure. He enjoys playful antics with the police, attempts to help a troubled woman overcome past trauma, and ultimately saves his niece from being forced into prostitution.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.8
  68. 968The War of the 16 Year OldsMovie · 1976 · 94mIn a quiet town still marked by its history from the war, a young wanderer and a bright sixteen-year-old girl gradually develop a connection.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.5
  69. 969SakuranMovie · 2006 · 111m · History, DramaAnna Tsuchiya stars as an oiran, a highly respected geisha in the pleasure district of Yoshiwara during the Edo period. She must skillfully maneuver through the complex social dynamics of the brothel while desperately trying to maintain her relationship with the man she loves.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5
  70. 970Paradise ViewMovie · 1985 · 113mGo Takamine's debut film is a significant work in Okinawan cinema, largely shot in the Okinawan dialect. Set just before Japan regains control of Okinawa, the movie subtly explores the island's history of being occupied and the resulting sense of displacement through the story of a close-knit community preparing for a wedding between a local woman and a Japanese teacher. On the sidelines is Reishu (Kaoru Kobayashi), who leaves his job at a US military base and spends his newfound time collecting snakes and playing with ants – while also getting the bride pregnant. Takamine's slow-moving film features distinctive Okinawan elements, blending aspects of the island's folklore, all underscored by Haruomi Hosono’s minimalist and evocative music.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.3
  71. 971Cafe IsobeMovie · 2008 · 113mSakiko is a typical teenager who resents her divorced father's womanizing. She doubts she'll ever experience romantic love. When he unexpectedly inherits a fortune and becomes idle, her resentment intensifies. He decides to open a cafe, and Sakiko is forced to assist. The cafe’s unusual clientele and attractive waitresses create friction between father and daughter.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.8
  72. 972The DemonMovie · 1978 · 110m · Drama, CrimeSokichi's decision to stop financially supporting his ex-wife Kikuyo and their three children creates emotional turmoil and surprising connections. Kikuyo's withdrawal from her children also disrupts the delicate balance of Sokichi's marriage to Oume. Oume struggles with the sudden arrival of three new children, leading to a mix of resentment and empathy. The film explores sacrifice and responsibility as characters confront the results of their choices and how those choices affect others. This compelling drama examines the complexities of relationships and how people navigate unexpected life changes.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 6.4
  73. 973Amagi PassMovie · 1983 · 99mSet in 1940s Japan, a high school student meets Ozuka Hana, a geisha, during a trip through Amagi Pass. Following this encounter, a murder occurs, and Hana is wrongly accused. Forty years later, the boy, now a printing shop owner, is visited by a retired policeman from Amagi Pass. The truth behind the events begins to emerge.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.3
  74. 974ZenMovie · 2009 · 127m · Drama, HistoryIn the early 1200s, Dogen introduced Chinese Zen philosophy to Japan, founding the Japanese Zen school of Buddhism. He taught that individuals could achieve enlightenment through self-realization via Zazen, a practice involving extended periods of sitting meditation to attain a state of "Mu"—a state of nothingness or empty existence.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1
  75. 975The Man Who Stole the SunMovie · 1979 · 147m · Crime, Thriller, ActionThis drama centers on a high school science teacher who is often ridiculed by his students for his quiet personality and unusual habits. During a field trip, their school bus is hijacked, and the teacher unexpectedly finds himself in a dangerous situation. It turns out he has been secretly building an atomic bomb in his apartment. This shocking discovery changes how everyone sees him, revealing hidden depths to his character and prompting questions about the impact of his choices. The film explores themes of identity, control, and the perils of obsession, all within the context of high school life and teenage rebellion.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3
  76. 976The Mourning ForestMovie · 2007 · 98m · DramaA young woman working at a retirement home takes an elderly resident on a trip to the countryside. Their outing takes an unexpected turn when they become stranded in the forest.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.8
  77. 977The Blossoming of Etsuko KamiyaMovie · 2006 · 111mIn war-torn Kagoshima, Japan, as World War II nears its end, Etsuko Kamiya, who lives with her brother and sister-in-law, receives a marriage proposal from Nagayo. However, Etsuko finds herself drawn to Nagayo's friend, Akashi.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.6
  78. 9788000 MilesMovie · 2009 · 80mIn Saitama, a city not known for its vibrant music scene, childhood friends Ikku and Tomu pursue their dream of becoming rap stars with their freestyle rap band, Sho-Gung. Director Yu Irie, who previously won the Grand Prize at the Yubari Fantastic Film Festival, draws on his own experiences growing up in Saitama to skillfully portray the often harsh realities of suburban youth, all within a comedic framework.IMDb 6.6TMDB 4.7
  79. 979The Bird People in ChinaMovie · 1998 · 118m · Adventure, DramaA hardworking Japanese businessman, Wada, travels to remote China seeking a jade mine. His expedition changes when he meets a determined yakuza who joins him in the search for wealth. Together, along with their local guide Shen, they journey through difficult landscapes and uncover unexpected truths that go beyond finding jade. The challenges they face test their strength, their values, and their beliefs. This adventure story explores self-discovery and the powerful connections forged between people brought together by hardship.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2
  80. 980Puppets Under Starry SkiesMovie · 1978 · 99mA young Japanese man befriends an unusual gay man and a woman with a troubled past, who is currently pregnant. The three share drug use and spend time together in an old house. He rejects the gay man's romantic interest, leading to the man's suicide. After a violent attack by a gang, the young man's father intervenes and brings him and the woman home. She decides to keep the baby and leaves to live with its father.IMDb 5.5TMDB 5.1
  81. 981Wandering HomeMovie · 2010 · 118mWar photojournalist Yasuyuki Tsukahara married manga artist Yuki Sonoda and they had children, but the marriage ended in divorce due to Yasuyuki's drinking. Now hospitalized with a serious cough and internal bleeding, he also struggles with violent outbursts and continues to battle his alcoholism. His family grows weary of his struggles. He's eventually admitted to an alcohol rehabilitation ward, where he finds support among fellow patients and medical professionals. With the support of his family, Yasuyuki makes progress in his recovery, both mentally and physically, though the damage to his body is extensive.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.2
  82. 982Sketches of Kaitan CityMovie · 2010 · 152mIn the city of Hakodate, linked by its streetcar lines, a series of poignant moments unfold. A recently unemployed man and his sister journey to a mountaintop to witness the year's first sunrise. Separately, Haruo inherits his family's gas business, but struggles with its challenges, leading to growing frustration.IMDb 7.2TMDB 5.4
  83. 983KeikoMovie · 1979 · 119mKeiko, a 23-year-old woman living a solitary life, hopes for connection while visiting her favorite cafe. Following a disappointing encounter with someone there, she decides to avoid men altogether. She then develops a fulfilling relationship with her coworker, Kazuyo. However, Keiko faces persistent pressure from her father to find a husband.IMDb 6.5TMDB 4.2
  84. 984Children of the DarkMovie · 2008 · 138mA middle-aged Japanese journalist in Thailand uncovers a disturbing network of child organ trafficking. He discovers a hidden world where child prostitution and organ sales thrive, fueled by the belief that one life must be sacrificed to save another. Driven by outrage, the journalist teams up with a dedicated young NGO worker to rescue these vulnerable children from exploitation. But the brutal realities of their situation present formidable obstacles. Based on Yan Sogil's unflinching account of today's tragic events, director Junji Sakamoto brings this stark story to the screen with a talented international cast.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.3
  85. 985MissingMovie · 2022 · 124mStruggling with depression and overwhelming debt, Santoshi tells his young daughter he's going to track down a notorious serial killer for a reward. When Santoshi vanishes without a trace, she fears something terrible has happened and sets out to find him.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 7.0
  86. 986The StranglingMovie · 1979 · 116mThe young protagonist is relentlessly tormented by the men in his life: a demanding teacher, a company owner who abuses his daughter, and an uncompromising father. These men view women as symbols of redemption, a concept directly opposed to their own actions.IMDb 6.4TMDB 4.4
  87. 987New Battles Without Honor and Humanity 2: Head of the BossMovie · 1975 · 94mThe seventh installment in the gripping "Jingi Naki Tatakai" series unveils the hidden realities of yakuza life beneath a facade of honor. This latest chapter unfolds at the Kanmon Channel, where the Owada and Kyoei gangs clash over territory and drug trafficking. The Owada dispatches Tetsu and his friend Shuji on a mission to assassinate the Kyoei boss. Shuji takes the blame, serving a seven-year prison sentence for the crime. Upon his release, he learns that both he and Tetsu have been abandoned by the Owada. Betrayed, Shuji becomes entangled in an internal power struggle and an assassination plot against the Owada boss, ultimately seeking revenge.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2
  88. 988Disciples of HippocratesMovie · 1980 · 126m · DramaOgino, nearing the end of medical school, struggles with the demands of studying, activism, and a relationship. Balancing lectures, exams, practical training, and his work as a pro-reform activist, he begins to doubt his path in medicine. His relationships with his girlfriend and fellow activists are strained as they witness the impact of stress and self-doubt. This intimate story examines ambition, dedication, and finding oneself amidst the challenges of medical training and political action.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.4
  89. 989New Battles Without Honor and Humanity 3: Last Days of the BossMovie · 1976 · 91mThis eighth installment in the popular "Fukasaku and Bunta" series follows the members of a smaller gang who are repeatedly harassed by a dominant rival group, suffering losses in ongoing gang conflicts.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.9
  90. 990Mister, Missus, Miss LonelyMovie · 1980 · 138m · DramaTwo men and a woman team up for a daring heist: to steal 1.5 billion yen. Each has their own reasons for wanting the money, and they carefully plan every step of the impossible robbery. As they work together, tensions build and unexpected problems arise. The film explores the complexities of their relationships, the question of trust, and the power of ambition as they navigate this high-stakes crime, keeping audiences captivated until the very last moment.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.0
  91. 991Letter from the MountainMovie · 2002 · 128mMichiko and Takao leave their life in Tokyo for a quiet, rural farming village – the place where Takao spent his childhood.IMDb 7.2TMDB 8.4
  92. 992At This Late Date, the CharlestonMovie · 1981 · 116mAfter an incident of sexual assault, a young man is placed in detention and encounters other students there who are also facing serious consequences.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.3
  93. 993Winter RoseMovie · 2022 · 109mJun Wataguchi drifts through life, skipping school and spending his days with unreliable friends, often asking them for money. His parents struggle to keep their shipping business – hauling earth and sand for land reclamation – afloat as jobs become scarce and they face a lack of family to take over. Jun shows no interest in the family business, and he and his father rarely communicate. Then, one day, a friend of Jun's is attacked, and the attacker is someone no one would have suspected.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.0
  94. 994Distant ThunderMovie · 1981 · 135mA young man cultivates tomatoes in a greenhouse within a residential area. His tomato crop mirrors the precarious state of his personal life, as he struggles to maintain his relationship with the unconventional Kaede while also navigating the expectations of his parents, who have chosen Ayako as his future wife.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.8
  95. 995The Human BulletMovie · 1968 · 116mThroughout World War II, a soldier has remained fiercely loyal to the Japanese military. But as the war nears its end, his officers grow increasingly desperate, issuing ever more outlandish orders. The absurdity culminates when he's tasked with piloting a single-person submarine directly into an enemy battleship.IMDb 7.3TMDB 5.8
  96. 996Empire of KidsMovie · 1981 · 115mAfter time in reform school, Ryu (Shinsuke Shimada) returns to his neighborhood in Osaka with his new friend Ko (Takeshi Masu). He's welcomed by his friends Chabo (Ryusuke Matsumoto) and Ken (Bang-ho Cho). Together, they navigate a complex landscape of rival gangs in both the Kita and Minami districts. These include the powerful Hokushin Alliance, supported by the yakuza, the Hope Association, and various smaller groups, even those connected to the Zainichi Korean community. The story that unfolds is a high-energy mix of violence, revenge, betrayal, and discrimination, all while maintaining a strong sense of humor.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.0
  97. 997Perfect DaysMovie · 2023 · 124m · DramaHirayama leads a quiet life as a toilet cleaner in Tokyo, finding satisfaction in his predictable routine. He enjoys listening to cassette tapes, reading, and photographing trees. Chance meetings lead him to contemplate the beauty around him.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8
  98. 998Kidnapping BluesMovie · 1982 · 94mIn a Tokyo bicycle parking lot, a man meets a young girl who expresses a desire to see the sea. Their journey together begins. The man isn't a kidnapper; he asks the girl to call her mother and tell her where she is. Throughout their travels, they encounter different people, but they are constantly forced to move on to avoid the man's arrest.IMDb 5.8TMDB 9.0