W2TCH

999 Essential Japanese Films Collection

998 titles

Default order ↑PopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox office
  1. 101Grave of the FirefliesMovie · 1988 · 89m · Animation, Drama, WarIn the last months of World War II, this moving story follows siblings Seita and Setsuko as they cope with the loss of their mother in an air raid that destroyed Kobe, Japan. After a conflict with their aunt, the children are forced to live in a deserted bomb shelter. As supplies run out, Seita and Setsuko face hunger and despair, relying on each other for strength. The film is a reminder of the resilience of young people and the power of family love during terrible times.Stream onIMDb 8.5TMDB 8.4
  2. 102The Empty TableMovie · 1985 · 143mA year after his eldest son Otohiko was arrested for involvement in a terrorist kidnapping that caused several deaths, Nobuyuki Kidoji struggles to accept responsibility. While the families of the other people involved have reacted by leaving their jobs or taking their own lives, Nobuyuki insists he had no part in his son's actions.IMDb 7.2TMDB 5.3
  3. 103Akame 48 WaterfallsMovie · 2003 · 159mFleeing his past, a man arrives in a shadowy underworld populated by an assortment of odd individuals. He takes a job butchering meat in a grimy room within a rundown house frequented by prostitutes, gangsters, and a peculiar tattoo artist. He is an outsider, and the residents make their disdain for him abundantly clear.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.6
  4. 104The MoonMovie · 2023 · 144mYoko takes a job at a nursing home and is deeply disturbed by the way the elderly and disabled residents are treated, feeling their basic dignity is being violated.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.5
  5. 105KikujiroMovie · 1999 · 121m · Comedy, Drama"Kikujiro" tells the story of Kikujiro, a boisterous man, and Masao, a young boy searching for his mother. Their journey together is a mix of humor and sadness as they meet all sorts of interesting people and experience unexpected situations. Kikujiro, who seems like a poor match for the gentle Masao, shows increasing kindness and vulnerability as they travel. Their friendship grows as they face life's challenges, exploring themes of companionship and personal development with sincerity. Along the way, they encounter people who change how they see life, family, and love. Each meeting brings new challenges and funny moments that enrich the story while keeping it light. As Kikujiro and Masao continue their unusual adventure, they learn about themselves and the power of connection, leaving audiences feeling uplifted.Stream onIMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5
  6. 106Choji Snack BarMovie · 1983 · 125mEiji maintains a peaceful existence operating a modest Izakaya alongside his wife. His days are spent preparing food and serving the friendly regulars of his close-knit community.IMDb 6.4TMDB 7.0
  7. 107Tenchu!Movie · 1969 · 140m · History, Action, DramaDuring a time of political turmoil and economic hardship, a masterless samurai seeks money. He joins forces with the powerful Tosa clan and its shrewd, ruthless leader, Takechi. But the alliance turns out to be a dangerous trap, as Takechi takes advantage of the samurai's desperation. This story explores the darker aspects of human nature during turbulent times, examining the complicated connections between ambition, loyalty, and survival.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9
  8. 108TsugumiMovie · 1990 · 105mTsugumi lives in a quiet coastal town and has been frail since childhood. Pampered by her parents, she's become demanding and self-centered. Yet, despite this, some are drawn to her beauty and distinctive personality.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.0
  9. 109My Neighbor TotoroMovie · 1988 · 86m · Fantasy, Animation, FamilyTwo sisters, Kiki and Chizu, leave their city home and move with their father to be near their mother, who is hospitalized. While adjusting to their new surroundings, they discover a magical secret: ancient Totoros live in the forest. The youngest sister, Satsuyu, finds a giant, flying Totoro who becomes her friend. When Satsuyu runs away upset, Kiki, the older sister, must seek help from the Totoros to find her. The sisters go on a fantastical journey together, strengthening their bond and connection to nature. The film shows how magic can be found everywhere and how love helps during difficult times.Stream onIMDb 8.1TMDB 8.1
  10. 110Summer WarsMovie · 2009 · 114m · Animation, Science FictionKenji Koiso, a teenage math prodigy, takes a summer job in his crush Natsuki's hometown. He discovers her family is gathered for their matriarch's 90th birthday and is asked to pretend to be Natsuki's fiancé. Simultaneously, Kenji's efforts to solve a complex mathematical problem inadvertently trigger a collision between our world and a parallel one.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.5
  11. 111Being GoodMovie · 2015 · 121mA new elementary school teacher finds it challenging to connect with his students and navigate their overly involved parents. His resolve shifts when he discovers one of his pupils is suffering abuse, prompting him to intervene.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.5
  12. 112Last MileMovie · 2024 · 128m · Drama, Thriller, CrimeThe night before Black Friday, the busiest shopping day of the year, a package delivered from the world's largest online retailer explodes. Soon, a series of mysterious explosions rocks the country, terrifying the nation. Funado Erena, newly appointed center director of a massive distribution warehouse covering most of the Kanto area, must work with team manager Nashimoto Ko to regain control of this unprecedented crisis.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.9
  13. 113The World of GeishaMovie · 1973 · 72mAmidst the chaos of 1917 – marked by the Russian Revolution, rice riots, and the Siberian military campaign of 1918 – Shinsuke, a brothel owner, remains detached. He finds solace in the company of geishas, largely unaffected by the turbulent world around him.IMDb 5.6TMDB 4.4
  14. 114GoninMovie · 1995 · 109m · Action, Crime, ThrillerFive men team up for a daring heist targeting a large fortune belonging to a powerful yakuza organization. Their carefully planned scheme quickly unravels, drawing them into a dangerous game pursued by relentless and highly skilled assassins. As they struggle to survive, tensions erupt within the group. The thieves face threats from outside and internal conflicts stemming from broken relationships and difficult choices. They navigate a treacherous world of betrayal and deception, where every decision carries deadly consequences. The film explores themes of friendship, trust, and loyalty as the men fight against overwhelming odds. Expect unexpected turns and a shocking conclusion that will leave audiences guessing.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5
  15. 115IrezumiMovie · 1966 · 86m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerOtsuya, a young woman from a wealthy merchant family, runs away with her lover, Shinsuke, who works for her father's company. Their escape is interrupted when they meet Seikichi, a mysterious master tattoo artist. Captivated by Otsuya's beauty, Seikichi tattoos her back with an elaborate demonic spider design. This act changes Otsuya, altering her personality and her relationships. As she struggles with her new identity and the fallout from her choices, Otsuya finds herself viewed as both a defiant lover and a woman marked by a symbol, connected to Seikichi in ways she doesn't understand.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8
  16. 116The Twilight SamuraiMovie · 2002 · 129m · Drama, RomanceAt the close of the 19th century, low-ranking samurai Seibei Iguchi faces hardship as a widower supporting his two daughters and aging mother. His life changes when Tomoe, a childhood friend, returns. Yet, as the feudal system collapses, Seibei is constrained by samurai tradition and social expectations. He must navigate these pressures to protect his family.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.8
  17. 117Across a Gold PrairieMovie · 1999 · 96mNippori Ayumu, an 80-year-old confined to his home for six decades due to heart problems, wakes up one morning believing he's 20 again. He's mentally relived his youth, but the world around him is changed. Convinced it's a dream, he embraces the illusion. As his reality transforms into a dream, his bleak existence blossoms into happiness and hope for the future. Ayumu rediscovers life and enjoys it fully.IMDb 7.3TMDB 8.0
  18. 118Rape and Death of a HousewifeMovie · 1978 · 96mThree young men, friends of a local chicken farmer, sexually assault his wife, Emiko. She dies from a heart attack during the attack. Devastated by her death, the husband struggles to cope, tending to her body as if she were still alive and unable to accept her passing.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.0
  19. 119Listen to the UniverseMovie · 2019 · 119mFour pianists compete in the first round of a major international piano competition. Each has a distinct background: one a former child prodigy who abandoned music after her mother's death, another a current student at Juilliard, and a third, a promising newcomer who has received strong recommendations.IMDb 6.3TMDB 7.0
  20. 120HanagatamiMovie · 2017 · 169mSpring 1941. In the coastal town of Karatsu, sixteen-year-old Toshihiko attends school while his aunt cares for his sick cousin. Surrounded by the sea and local traditions, Toshihiko forms close bonds with other remarkable teenagers as they all grapple with the growing threat of war.Stream onIMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0
  21. 121Tada's Do-It-All HouseMovie · 2011 · 123mIn the Tokyo suburb of Mahoro, Tada is a freelance problem solver. His life is upended when his former classmate, Gyoten, unexpectedly shows up at his door. Both men are over 30 and divorced. Without explanation, Gyoten asks to stay with Tada for the night. Tada agrees, and Gyoten becomes his assistant. Together, they take on a variety of cases involving people from all walks of life.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5
  22. 122AMovie · 1998 · 136m · DocumentaryThis documentary examines Aum Shinrikyo, a Buddhist sect led by Shoko Asahara, between September 1996 and November 1997. It covers the sect's reaction to media attention, the trials following the 1995 Tokyo subway sarin attack, and the cult's dwindling finances due to public disapproval. The film centers on Hiroshi Araki, who becomes Aum's main spokesperson after the leaders are arrested. We see the hostility he encounters from the Japanese public, who struggle to understand how many followers were unaware of the attacks and remain devoted despite the violence. This revealing look at cult life explores the complicated connection between Aum Shinrikyo, its members, and a society that rejects them.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.9
  23. 123Always: Sunset on Third Street 2Movie · 2007 · 146mRyunosuke Chagawa, an aspiring writer, lives near Norifumi Suzuki's auto shop. He now shares his home with Junnosuke, an orphan he's caring for, encouraged by Hiroi, who runs the local tavern. Ryunosuke hopes to publish a novel and build a life with Hiroi and Junnosuke, but his work at the candy store keeps him occupied, leading Hiroi to believe he isn't interested in her. Hiroi is also secretly working as a burlesque dancer, which has soured her view of men. At the Suzuki residence, seven-year-old Ippei is unhappy about sharing with his demanding cousin Mika, also his age. Mutsuko, the apprentice mechanic, continues to live with the Suzukis and attracts the attention of Takeo, a disheartened young man studying cooking.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.9
  24. 124Moment of TerrorMovie · 1966 · 100mAfter her only child is killed in a car accident, a mother seeks revenge on the driver. The driver is the wife of a powerful company president who is having an affair. The president covers up the incident, but the mother discovers the driver's identity. She then gets a job in the president's household and begins plotting to kill his son when he is old enough to be the same age as her deceased child.IMDb 7.3TMDB 5.8
  25. 125OarMovie · 1985 · 134mThis drama explores the strained relationship between a retired professional wrestler, his wife, and their adopted children.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.1
  26. 126Painful Bliss: Final TwistMovie · 1977 · 73mA young executive experiences a disastrous night following an unsettling encounter with a delusional man aspiring to be a yakuza and his sexually aggressive girlfriend.IMDb 6.7TMDB 4.9
  27. 127OutrageMovie · 2010 · 109m · Action, Crime, ThrillerBetrayed by his own bosses, a hardened yakuza gangster ignites a full-scale war. He systematically eliminates anyone who stands in his path, leaving a trail of bodies in a relentless pursuit of vengeance and power.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.9
  28. 128DreamsMovie · 1990 · 119m · Fantasy, DramaFilmmaker Akira Kurosawa explores the dream world, drawing inspiration from his own nocturnal visions to create fantastical stories. Each narrative takes viewers on a journey through magical realms filled with enchantment. Using vivid imagery and storytelling, Kurosawa blurs the lines between dreams and reality, inviting audiences to question their perception of the world. This collection of tales promises to transport viewers to imaginative realms and leave a lasting impression.Stream onIMDb 7.7TMDB 7.7
  29. 129Swallowtail ButterflyMovie · 1996 · 148m · Drama, Crime, MusicSet in a future Japan, the film follows a group of people living in Yentown, a community on the fringes of society. These individuals have been rejected by mainstream culture and struggle to find acceptance. They navigate a world that challenges them while finding support and understanding in each other. The story explores themes of acceptance, resilience, and adapting to hardship. It shows how unity can be transformative and how shared experiences create strength, revealing the common humanity that connects everyone.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5
  30. 130Patlabor: The MovieMovie · 1989 · 100m · Action, Animation, Science FictionIn Tokyo, a mysterious suicide triggers a series of chaotic robot malfunctions. Police investigating the incidents suspect a hidden software manipulation affecting the city's many industrial robots. The investigation reveals a complex web of intrigue and raises concerns about the dangers of artificial intelligence when misused. The story explores how technology impacts society and its effects on daily life, unfolding with suspenseful twists.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0
  31. 131Patlabor 2: The MovieMovie · 1993 · 116m · Animation, Science Fiction, ActionIn a future where advanced technology has created human-like robots called Labors, a special Japanese police unit works to keep the peace. Their mission becomes complicated by a growing conflict between civilian leaders and the military. When a terrorist attack is wrongly blamed on an Air Force jet, tensions rise, and the team must partner with a government agent to uncover the truth. Together, they race to expose the real perpetrators and prevent the chaos from escalating into martial law. This suspenseful story explores themes of trust, power, and the dangers of deception in a world dependent on advanced technology.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4
  32. 132KwaidanMovie · 1965 · 183m · Horror, Fantasy, Drama"Kaidan: Ghost Stories" is an anthology film inspired by traditional Japanese folklore, presenting unsettling tales about human longing, the results of choices, and supernatural forces. Each story is richly detailed, transporting viewers to a chilling glimpse of Japan's past. One story follows a poor samurai who marries for money, but his decision leads to a devastating tragedy that challenges the worth of wealth and love. Another tells of a man saved from a blizzard by the Snow Maiden, Yuki, who then demands a terrible price. The film also features Hoichi, a blind musician whose talent brings him unwanted attention from vengeful samurai spirits, forcing him to play for an invisible audience. The final story involves an author telling a tale about a samurai who discovers a dark secret in his teacup's reflection. "Kaidan: Ghost Stories" blends horror and tradition, offering a collection of frightening stories that make viewers reconsider their beliefs about life, death, and the supernatural.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.7
  33. 133BackwaterMovie · 2013 · 102mToma lives in a quiet town by the river with his abusive father and his father's girlfriend. Growing up under their roof, Toma worries he's inherited his father’s violent tendencies.Stream onIMDb 6.2TMDB 5.7
  34. 134ZatoichiMovie · 2003 · 116m · Adventure, Drama, ActionZatoichi, a blind masseur and skilled swordsman who enjoys gambling, arrives in a village plagued by feuding gangs. He decides to defend the villagers from the violence.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2
  35. 135The Oil-Hell MurderMovie · 1992 · 115mA lazy young man, the son of an oil merchant, frequently visits a prostitute. He accumulates a large amount of debt and is subsequently cut off financially by his parents.Stream onIMDb 6.5TMDB 5.8
  36. 136Tora-san's Shattered RomanceMovie · 1971 · 90mWhile traveling, Torajiro feels increasingly homesick after seeing a news report about his hometown and encountering a young woman who reminds him of his sister, Sakura. At the same time, a new tenant begins living at the Toraya restaurant.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.2
  37. 137Until the Lights Come BackMovie · 2005 · 132mWhen a Christmas Eve power outage plunges Tokyo into darkness, a group of people with hidden burdens find an unexpected chance to confront their past wrongdoings.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.0
  38. 138I Am a CatMovie · 1975 · 116mNakadai is a typical, downtrodden English teacher at a local school. Fans of Nakadai will enjoy his comedic outbursts in this role. His home life is chaotic: he struggles with a flighty but attractive wife, three young children, a noisy school run by a businessman he despises, and constant visits from unreliable friends. And don't forget the grey cat with green eyes!IMDb 6.5TMDB 2.8
  39. 139Angel Guts: Red ClassroomMovie · 1979 · 79mAn editor for a pornography magazine discovers a rough, amateur film depicting a gang rape. Captivated by the young woman's performance in the film, he becomes determined to locate her.Stream onIMDb 6.0TMDB 6.4
  40. 140The CeremonyMovie · 1971 · 123m · DramaThe film follows a complex protagonist from the Sakurada clan as militaristic Japan undergoes a turbulent period. As the last surviving heir, they experience political maneuvering and societal shifts within the context of traditional family life. Director Oshima uses rituals as symbolic storytelling to show how these changes affect the protagonist personally and reflect Japan's changing fortunes over decades. The film is a moving look at heritage, family ties, and national identity during a time of significant upheaval.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 6.7
  41. 141Like AsuraMovie · 2003 · 135mThe four Takezawa sisters learn their father has a secret child and hire a private detective to find out more.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5
  42. 142Haru's JourneyMovie · 2010 · 134mHaru, Tadao's granddaughter, feels trapped in their fishing village in Hokkaido and longs to go to Tokyo. Her grandfather is hesitant about the idea of her traveling there.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.5
  43. 143Strawberry ShortcakesMovie · 2006 · 127mThis film explores the joys and challenges faced by four female friends living in Tokyo as they navigate relationships and manage the demands of their everyday lives.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.6
  44. 144Suite DreamsMovie · 2006 · 137mA lavish New Year's Eve at a high-end hotel is supposed to be flawless, but chaos erupts. Amidst the planned festivities – a gala, ceremony, entertainment, and dinner – problems arise on multiple fronts: a dangerous individual is at large, a politician requires protection, a delicate situation involving a prostitute must be managed, and a bellhop demands attention, among other issues.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.1
  45. 145Side JobMovie · 2017 · 120mDirected by Hiroki, this film is based on the novel "Her Life is Not at Fault." It's a moving story about people who have overcome hardship and are searching for hope and meaning in their lives.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.9
  46. 146Bright FutureMovie · 2003 · 115m · Drama, MysteryTwo friends working as laundry workers in Tokyo discover an unusual fascination with jellyfish. As they become detached from everyday life, they find themselves drawn to the beauty and danger of these creatures. The film uses visuals and subtle character moments to explore feelings of isolation, attraction to risk, and the search for meaning in ordinary lives. Their focus on jellyfish reflects their own struggle to find purpose, while also revealing the hidden wonders and potential dangers of the natural world.Stream onIMDb 6.7TMDB 6.8
  47. 147Spring BellMovie · 1985 · 130mRokuheita Narumi directs the Saho Art Museum in Nara and is passionate about oriental art. His wife, Noriko, remains in Tokyo, and they live apart. Feeling lonely and overlooked, she becomes involved in Tokyo's nightlife and maintains a strained relationship with a doctor named Katsumori. When Narumi visits Tokyo, he discovers Noriko's affair. However, for the sake of their child, he chooses not to divorce her and focuses on his work.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0
  48. 148Angel Guts: Red PornoMovie · 1981 · 67m · DramaNami's normal life changes drastically when she agrees to pretend to be her friend for a magazine photoshoot. What starts as a simple favor becomes a terrifying experience as she's pressured into posing for an adult publication, exposing her to the dark side of the industry. Betrayed by those she trusts and facing extreme humiliation, Nami's life falls apart. Adding to her distress, a disturbing stalker begins to relentlessly pursue her. This intense drama reveals the devastating results of a single impulsive choice, examining themes of vulnerability, exploitation, and the strength it takes to endure hardship.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.6
  49. 149Happy-Go-LuckyMovie · 1997 · 73mTakashi and four classmates struggle to complete a back handspring on a horizontal bar. Their gym teacher tells them they have one week to succeed, warning that quitting now will lead to a lifetime of avoiding challenges and becoming failures.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.5
  50. 150River of FirefliesMovie · 1987 · 115mIn the winter of 1962, in Toyama, Tatsuo Mizushima is preoccupied with his feelings for his classmate Eiko Tsujisawa and the pressure of his upcoming high school exams. As children, Tatsuo and Eiko had been told that if a couple caught fireflies together during a particularly harsh winter month in April, they were destined to marry. However, Tatsuo's family circumstances prevent him from dwelling on such hopes for long.IMDb 7.8
  51. 151Hush!Movie · 2001 · 135mNaoya and Katsuhiro are a new couple navigating an imbalance in their relationship: Naoya is open, while Katsuhiro is reserved and private. Their lives are upended when Asako, a woman with a difficult past including mental health struggles, abortions, and promiscuity, asks Katsuhiro to have a child with her.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.1
  52. 152A BalanceMovie · 2021 · 152mA filmmaker documenting a divisive local tragedy faces a moral crisis when a hidden truth from her past comes to light.Stream onIMDb 7.0TMDB 7.5
  53. 153Like Grains of SandMovie · 1995 · 129mThis is a coming-of-age story about Shuji, a Japanese teenager who develops feelings for his close friend Hiroyuki. However, Hiroyuki is drawn to Kasane, a new student in their class.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.7
  54. 154Japan's Longest DayMovie · 1967 · 157mAfter the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan's military and government disagree on whether to accept the Allies' demand for unconditional surrender. Army Minister Anami leads officers who want to continue fighting, even if it means the deaths of all Japanese people. Emperor Hirohito, supported by his ministers, instead seeks a peaceful surrender. When the military plans a coup to overthrow the Emperor's civilian rule, Anami is forced to choose between his own ambitions and his loyalty to the Emperor.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.2
  55. 155Castle in the SkyMovie · 1986 · 125m · Adventure, Fantasy, AnimationTwo unlikely allies embark on an epic quest to find the legendary Floating Castle. A young boy and a resourceful girl, connected by a mystical crystal, must navigate dangerous waters filled with pirates and foreign agents. Racing against time, they face unexpected challenges that test their courage. The powerful crystal guides them but also attracts those who want to control its energy. As they travel through wondrous and perilous landscapes, they learn to trust each other and use the crystal's powers. The story is about friendship, resilience, and discovering themselves in a captivating world. With danger and mystery at every step, their search for the Floating Castle becomes an extraordinary and unforgettable adventure.Stream onIMDb 8.0TMDB 8.0
  56. 156The Scent of IncenseMovie · 1964 · 203mFollowing her mother's departure, Tomoko is trained as a geisha. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she unexpectedly encounters her mother in Tokyo's red-light district, plunging her into unforeseen complications.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2
  57. 157All About Lily Chou-ChouMovie · 2001 · 146m · Drama, CrimeThis film follows the difficult adolescence of Yūichi Hasumi and Shūsuke Hoshino, examining the evolving and complicated way they relate to each other. The story unfolds against the backdrop of Yūichi's deep fascination with the ethereal and imaginative music of pop icon Lily Chou-Chou.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4
  58. 158Time Within MemoryMovie · 1973 · 117mAfter thirty years, Minoru returns to his family's island home, Okinoerabu. There, he encounters the man who once loved his mother, triggering memories of his childhood spent with her on the island.IMDb 6.0TMDB 4.2
  59. 159Woman in the DunesMovie · 1964 · 147m · Drama, ThrillerA vacationing entomologist is held captive in a remote seaside village by its struggling residents, who are fascinated by him. Forced to live under their basic conditions, he develops a close relationship with a local woman whose life revolves around hard labor. As he endures this ordeal, the entomologist confronts his own personal struggles, losing his former life and comforts. Over time, he finds an unexpected connection with the woman, who demonstrates remarkable strength in the face of hardship, forcing him to reconsider his own ideas about survival. The film examines human bonds and resilience while portraying the difficult realities of isolated communities.Stream onIMDb 8.4TMDB 8.2
  60. 160Beauty's Exotic Dance: Torture!Movie · 1977 · 83mThis film adapts the life of painter Shuu Ito, centering on his sexual abuse of two wives and a prostitute. Ito meticulously documents these encounters in journals, outlining his own twisted philosophy. He subjects the women to intense psychological torment.IMDb 6.3TMDB 2.8
  61. 161Rainbow SongMovie · 2006 · 117mTomoya Kishida, a television studio staffer, is deeply affected by the death of his close friend, Aoi Sato. He reflects on their shared history, from their first meeting at a record store and collaborating on a short film during university, to their final farewells. They harbored unspoken feelings for each other, but never found the courage to confess before it was too late.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.7
  62. 162Eros + MassacreMovie · 1969 · 216m · Drama, Romance, HistoryThis film tells two interconnected stories about love, activism, and freedom. One follows Sakae Osugi, a key anarchist in 1920s Japan. His relationships with three women illuminate the personal and political aspects of his beliefs. At the same time, two students in the 1960s research Osugi's ideas. As they study him, they struggle to understand how his philosophies apply to their own lives. The film explores the lasting influence of Osugi's thought and his legacy as a revolutionary and a passionate man.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3
  63. 163Diary of a Shinjuku ThiefMovie · 1969 · 96mIn Tokyo's Shinjuku district, the paths of a young man who frequently steals, a young woman he encounters in a bookstore, and a kabuki actor become intertwined.Stream onIMDb 6.1TMDB 4.6
  64. 164The Zen DiaryMovie · 2022 · 112mTsutomu lives a solitary life in the mountains, dedicating himself to writing and preparing simple Zen meals from his garden and the forest. His peaceful routine is regularly interrupted by visits from Machiko, his editor and the woman he loves. Though seemingly at ease, Tsutomu still keeps his wife's ashes, a reminder of her death thirteen years prior.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.9
  65. 165Bitterness of YouthMovie · 1974 · 85mA law student passionate about football begins tutoring an undergraduate and they develop a romantic relationship. However, their romance quickly faces complications.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.3
  66. 166The Last SnowMovie · 2002 · 111mThis is a story about two men grappling with profound loss. One is newly grieving, while the other's wife lies in a coma. Inspired by a well-known song.IMDb 5.7
  67. 167Pink Tush GirlMovie · 1978 · 87mAfter her boyfriend abruptly ends their relationship following their first intimate encounter, Yuko flees her Tokyo home for the western coast of Japan to process her emotions. Her friend Rena follows, trying to locate Yuko and ensure her well-being. Rena's search brings her close to Yuko, but always just a little late. As Rena follows Yuko's trail, she discovers that her friend is embracing a newfound freedom, openly pursuing romantic connections with men she meets.IMDb 5.8TMDB 3.8
  68. 168ZigeunerweisenMovie · 1980 · 144m · Mystery, DramaThis atmospheric period film follows a university professor and his enigmatic traveling companion as their lives become unexpectedly connected. Amidst shifting relationships and strange encounters, both men are confronted with their own mortality in unsettling ways. The film's dreamlike atmosphere and complex relationships reflect societal dynamics. As they journey together, the two men grapple with their deepest fears and desires, revealing profound truths about love, loss, and what it means to be human.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 6.5
  69. 169Dear EtrangerMovie · 2017 · 127mMakoto Tanaka, 40, is happily remarried to Nanae, and they share two daughters from Nanae's previous relationship. Makoto strives for a normal family life. When Nanae becomes pregnant, the family dynamic shifts unexpectedly.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.1
  70. 170Kagero-zaMovie · 1981 · 140mIn the 1920s, a playwright falls for a stunning woman who appears to be the ghost of his wealthy patron's late wife.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 6.5
  71. 171YumejiMovie · 1991 · 128mThe film explores the life of Japanese artist and poet Yumeji Takehisa, centered on his imagined meeting with a captivating widow haunted by a troubled history.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 6.3
  72. 172Dog in a SidecarMovie · 2007 · 94mThe film opens in the present day, where Kaoru, a young woman working as a real estate agent, assists the owner of a local fishing pond. There, she encounters a timid girl needing help with baiting a hook, a moment that evokes memories of her own fourth-grade self.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 5.7
  73. 173Boiling PointMovie · 1990 · 96m · Crime, Comedy, DramaSet against the striking landscapes of Okinawa, the film follows Masaki, a gas station attendant and former baseball player whose life changes when he has a dangerous run-in with the local Yakuza. To protect himself, Masaki travels to Okinawa to find a gun – a choice that sets him on a path of destiny. There, he meets Uehara, a tough gangster burdened by debt and seeking revenge against the Yakuza. An unlikely alliance forms between them, bound by shared hardship. The story unfolds through dramatic confrontations as they fight to control their futures, forging bonds and confronting their pasts in a compelling tale of survival, loyalty, and redemption.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.9
  74. 174Battles Without Honor and Humanity: Police TacticsMovie · 1974 · 101m · Crime, DramaThe year before the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, Hiroshima's criminal underworld faces a major threat. The police, under public and media pressure, are determined to break the power of the yakuza clans that have long controlled the city through fear and influence. This police action creates a volatile and unpredictable situation within the already fierce competition for dominance among the criminal families. Loyalties are tested, alliances change, and past conflicts resurface. The film explores the complexities of power, honor, and loyalty in this realistic look at a past era. Through the experiences of various characters, the audience discovers the intricate workings of the yakuza world and how the upcoming Olympics have changed their world.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0
  75. 175DemonMovie · 1985 · 127mShuji was formerly a prominent member of the Yakuza, but he has since left that life behind. He relocated to a quiet coastal fishing town and now works as a fisherman, seeking an honest existence.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.0
  76. 176Elephant SongMovie · 1994 · 59mKanako, a divorced coffee-shop waitress with a young son, must now keep a promise she impulsively made to a regular customer. He wished to be buried in the earth, believing his body would serve a purpose. Now that he's passed away, Kanako and her son team up with a kind florist and his truck. They embark on a journey to the mountains to secretly fulfill his final wish.IMDb 6.8
  77. 177HimizuMovie · 2011 · 129m · Crime, DramaTwo teenagers escaping difficult home lives find solace in each other, leading them down a path of exploring profound questions about life, hopelessness, and the fragility of people.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0
  78. 178BrotherMovie · 2000 · 113m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerA Japanese Yakuza gangster, accustomed to a life of violence in Japan, is exiled to Los Angeles. There, he finds refuge with his younger brother and the brother's gang.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 7.1
  79. 179Okiku and the WorldMovie · 2023 · 90mTwo homeless men earn a living collecting waste from tenement toilets and selling it as fertilizer to nearby farmers. Their lives change when they meet Okiku, the daughter of a disgraced samurai. Amidst the piles of manure, an unexpected romance blossoms.Stream onIMDb 6.7TMDB 7.6
  80. 180Alone in the NightMovie · 1994 · 108mWhen an undercover narcotics officer is killed, yakuza members break into his apartment after his funeral. They rape his wife, Nami, believing he stole drugs from them. Nami attempts suicide but is rescued by a mysterious yakuza. She then chooses to infiltrate the gang to seek revenge.Stream onIMDb 6.4TMDB 5.8
  81. 181Muddy RiverMovie · 1981 · 105mGrowing up near a muddy river in Osaka, two boys develop a strong friendship. Their parents both work along the riverbank.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3
  82. 182One Summer's DayMovie · 1999 · 123mIn the second film of his Onomichi trilogy, veteran director Nobuhiko Obayashi tells the story of a developing bond between a young boy and an unusual elderly man. Fifth-grader Yuta (Takuro Atsugi), used to city life and leisure, is sent to his grandparents' home by the sea for the summer. His parents explain that his grandfather has been behaving erratically, exhibiting odd habits like eating altar offerings and attempting calisthenics at a funeral. With his parents busy and his sister focused on college exams, Yuta is tasked with looking after Grandpa. The old man takes Yuta on a tour of Onomichi, sharing seventy years of the town's history. As they explore, Grandpa increasingly loses his grip on the present, blurring the lines between past and reality.IMDb 5.5
  83. 183My SonsMovie · 1991 · 120mIn Tokyo, Tetsuo, a young man, develops a love for a deaf-mute factory worker. He has long felt overshadowed by his more educated brother, but unexpectedly gains both the woman's affection and his father's approval in a moving and genuine way.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.8
  84. 184Violent CopMovie · 1989 · 103m · Crime, ThrillerA seasoned detective investigates his colleague's possible involvement in corruption, drugs, and the Yakuza. He finds himself caught in a dangerous world, forced to question his own ethics as he seeks the truth. His pursuit of answers leads him to repeatedly break rules and confront his moral boundaries. The film explores the dark reality of organized crime and its impact on those who investigate it, examining loyalty, morality, and the cost of doing what's right.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 7.2
  85. 185Tora-san's Sunrise and SunsetMovie · 1976 · 109mTora-san arrives in Shibamata on Mitsuo's first day of school and discovers the boy was embarrassed by his presence. Following a family argument, Mitsuo goes to a bar and brings home a grumpy old man with a poignant story, the identity of whom is unexpected. Later, Tora meets Botan, a geisha.IMDb 7.1TMDB 9.0
  86. 186Tarch TripMovie · 1994 · 64mThis film unfolds like an Impressionist painting, capturing subtle moments in the everyday life of the filmmaker in his Aichi town home and the surrounding streets. Quietly observing minor incidents, the film evokes a melancholic mood enhanced by serene electronic music and ambient street sounds. It features loosely composed impressions of the street and skies alongside posed, subtly homoerotic portraits of the filmmaker's friends. *Tarch Trip* is assembled from fragments of a cinematic diary, presented non-chronologically, alternating between periods of rain and dark skies and sunnier days spent with three friends.IMDb 7.1TMDB 3.3
  87. 187The Terminal TrustMovie · 2012 · 144mShinzo Egi, who suffers from asthma, requests his doctor, Ayano Orii, to honor his wish not to be placed on life support. Following his request, Dr. Orii faces scrutiny and is questioned in a criminal case.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.3
  88. 188SaudadeMovie · 2011 · 167mSeiji is a construction worker who feels a connection with Hosaka, who recently returned from Thailand. They often spend their evenings together at bars with Thai women. While working on a construction site, they meet Takeru, a member of a local hip-hop group.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.9
  89. 189I, the ExecutionerMovie · 1968 · 91mDetectives are investigating a connection between the elaborate crimes of a serial killer and the recent suicide of a teenage boy.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2
  90. 190Tora-san, Our Lovable TrampMovie · 1969 · 91mTora-san, a traveling salesman who was banished from his family home years ago, unexpectedly reunites with his aunt, uncle, and sister Sakura. His return stirs up trouble, as he causes disruptions like drunken antics at a wedding and jeopardizes Sakura's opportunity for marriage. Despite his often troublesome behavior, Tora-san also possesses a sentimental side, and ultimately, those around him find themselves growing fond of him.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.8
  91. 191ScoutmanMovie · 2001 · 114mMari and Atsushi run away to Tokyo, but their dreams quickly clash with reality when they run out of money. Mari starts selling "Party Tickets" and is pulled into the sex industry to survive. Atsushi becomes a "Scout Man," recruiting young women for nude modeling and adult films. Their choices have serious consequences for their futures.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.0
  92. 192KaoyakuMovie · 1971 · 98mA detective is assigned to investigate a major corruption scandal at a bank.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.8
  93. 193Did the Red Bird Escape?Movie · 1973 · 99mA young man with a history as an outlaw struggles to leave his past behind, even as he becomes involved with a wealthy family.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.3
  94. 194Street of JoyMovie · 1974 · 78mIn 1958, the night before a new law forces brothels to close, five prostitutes at the Kofukuya – "house of happiness" – decide to celebrate. As the evening unfolds, a blend of eroticism, drama, and comedy emerges, revealing the individual stories of each woman.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.2
  95. 195All Around UsMovie · 2008 · 140mKanao is a courtroom artist who silently witnesses the crimes, scandals, and changing morals of Japan. Amidst the grief of losing their first child, Kanao and his wife find a fragile hope and rekindle their love.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4
  96. 196Crazed FruitMovie · 1981 · 85mTetsuo, a young man from a working-class background, harbors deep distrust for the wealthy. He finds himself falling in love with Chika, a girl from a privileged family. Their relationship faces considerable obstacles, but their love endures.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.4
  97. 197Talk of the Town Tora-sanMovie · 1978 · 104mA chance meeting with his father prompts Tora to contemplate life and death. However, his serious intentions are complicated when a captivating woman begins working at Toraya.IMDb 6.5TMDB 9.0
  98. 198Preparation for the FestivalMovie · 1975 · 117mTateo, a young man plagued by anxiety, longs to escape the village where he grew up.IMDb 7.2TMDB 5.3
  99. 199A Last NoteMovie · 1995 · 110mA retired actress returns to her summer home after her husband's death. There, she reconnects with old friends and acquaintances, who share stories and news, often centered on loss and memories of the past.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.0
  100. 200Lullaby to KillMovie · 1977 · 144mPrivate detective Kôsuke Kindaichi travels to a secluded town where he connects with a local police detective. Together, they begin investigating a decades-old, unsolved murder. As new murders occur, Kindaichi must uncover hidden truths from the past to identify the killer.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.4