W2TCH

999 Essential Japanese Films Collection

998 titles

Default order ↑PopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox office
  1. 301A Story from Echigo posterA Story from EchigoMovie · 1964 · 112mA sake factory worker on vacation returns to his hometown and sexually assaults the wife of a coworker in the woods. The coworker later returns home to discover his wife has changed, leading him to suspect infidelity.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2
  2. 302Beijing Watermelon posterBeijing WatermelonMovie · 1989 · 135mShunzo is a well-liked greengrocer in a town outside Tokyo. His life, along with those of his wife Michi and their two children, is profoundly altered when he meets Li, a struggling college student from China.Stream onPlex ChannelPlexAmazon VideoIMDb 7.3TMDB 6.3
  3. 303The Great Passage posterThe Great PassageMovie · 2013 · 133m · DramaMajime, an unusual man working in publishing, possesses a remarkable talent with language. He joins a team compiling a new dictionary, *The Great Passage*, and becomes deeply absorbed in the project. However, the team faces numerous challenges.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2
  4. 304Blue Spring posterBlue SpringMovie · 2001 · 83m · DramaAfter becoming the leader of his high school gang, Kujo finds himself disillusioned by the constant violence and animosity. He longs to step away from his role, but his position of authority paradoxically leaves him feeling helpless.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1
  5. 305Helpless posterHelplessMovie · 1996 · 80mYasuo, recently released from prison, is determined to confront his boss after a betrayal. Before embarking on this perilous journey, Yasuo asks Kenji to look after his sister, Yuri, who has mental disabilities, and a mysterious black bag.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.1
  6. 306All the Long Nights posterAll the Long NightsMovie · 2024 · 119m · DramaTwo coworkers navigate the challenges of their jobs – he battles panic attacks, and she experiences severe PMS. They work for a company that distributes toy planetariums. Though seemingly simple, the film shares Ozu Yasujirō's gentle style: the characters offer each other quiet support and kindness, often unconsciously.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.2
  7. 307A Girl Missing posterA Girl MissingMovie · 2019 · 111m · DramaIchiko is a private nurse caring for a family she once hoped to join. While looking after the grandmother, she becomes close to Motoko, the eldest daughter. Then, Motoko's younger sister vanishes, and the kidnapper is shockingly revealed to be Ichiko's own nephew.Stream onFilm Movement Plus Amazon ChannelFilm Movement PlusHooplaIMDb 6.5TMDB 6.5
  8. 308Climber's High posterClimber's HighMovie · 2008 · 145mOn August 12, 1985, a jumbo jet crash results in 520 fatalities, becoming the deadliest single-plane accident ever recorded. Local news reporters are flooded with information and speculation. Yuuki, tasked with covering the crash for a local newspaper, is confronted with difficult choices. He grapples with questions of journalistic integrity, navigating the pressures of a corporate environment, and considering the importance of his personal relationships. This compelling story keeps audiences captivated by its blend of tension and realism.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.1
  9. 309Fall Guy posterFall GuyMovie · 1982 · 108mFacing a damaged reputation and the rise of a popular rival, Tachibana, Ginshiro pressures his friend Yasu into marrying Konatsu, Ginshiro's pregnant lover. Yasu takes on stunt work to support himself.Stream onCriterion ChannelIMDb 6.9TMDB 6.2
  10. 310The Silk Tree Ballad posterThe Silk Tree BalladMovie · 1974 · 89mNemunoki provides a supportive environment where children and young adults facing physical, intellectual, or family challenges can explore and cultivate their abilities. They participate in activities like painting, music, tea ceremony, and dance, all designed to gently encourage self-discovery.IMDb 7.5TMDB 8.5
  11. 311The Village posterThe VillageMovie · 1975 · 127mA rural village is offered the chance to stage a musical, but the financial burden raises doubts among the hardworking farmers. An acting troupe representative, Ms. Kono, explains the details, and the villagers must decide whether to take on the challenge. The film offers glimpses into a peaceful, countryside life in Japan, a world away from Tokyo. Its strength lies in its heartfelt story of putting on a show. A rare example of a simple narrative in modern filmmaking, it provides a charming look at a slower-paced existence.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0
  12. 312About Her Brother posterAbout Her BrotherMovie · 2010 · 126mGinko's brother Tetsuro has always been an outsider, a source of embarrassment due to his loud, inappropriate behavior. Ginko cuts him out of her life. They reconnect when she learns Tetsuro is dying. His impending death brings about a surprising development: love and acceptance between them.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.4
  13. 313Another Lonely HitmanMovie · 1995 · 105mAfter serving a ten-year sentence for a drug-related killing of a rival gang leader, Tachibana returns to a drastically changed world. Once a powerful and respected Yakuza figure, he must now navigate a new understanding of honor. While still commanding some respect, he tries to simply survive. A brief connection with a prostitute offers him a sense of peace. When he witnesses her being abused by her pimp, Tachibana intervenes with a brutal display of old-school Yakuza force, sparking a confrontation with the current gang boss, Sato.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.2
  14. 314Scenery to Remember posterScenery to RememberMovie · 2008 · 138mKnowing she doesn't have much time left, Toshiko travels to the place she truly feels at home, a location filled with cherished memories. Supported by her husband, she faces her fate with courage and optimism, yet she can't help but feel sorrow for the future of those she loves.IMDb 4.7
  15. 315Children Drawing Rainbows posterChildren Drawing RainbowsMovie · 1980 · 86m · DocumentaryThis documentary follows Mariko Miyagi as she explores the lives of students at Nemunoki School, highlighting the artistic talents of its children with disabilities. The film shows the children as they discover and develop their art, using it to express themselves and connect with others. Their drawings reveal powerful stories of imagination, self-expression, and communication that overcome physical challenges. The artwork reflects their individual personalities and shared experiences within the school community. By demonstrating the healing power of creativity, the documentary emphasizes the importance of art in building self-esteem, independence, and belonging for students who often experience social isolation.IMDb 7.0
  16. 316Luminous Moss posterLuminous MossMovie · 1992 · 118mSeeking inspiration, a headmaster and a novelist observe an unusual natural event. Afterward, they exchange personal stories.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.5
  17. 317Chronicle of My Mother posterChronicle of My MotherMovie · 2012 · 119mKosaku Igami, a successful novelist known for using his family as inspiration, faces a crisis when his mother is diagnosed with dementia. This forces him to confront the emotional distance he's created within his family and address his own unresolved resentments. This moving story, reminiscent of Ozu's films, beautifully portrays the complexities of family relationships and the enduring bonds that tie them together.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.6
  18. 318Here Comes the Bride, My Mom! posterHere Comes the Bride, My Mom!Movie · 2010 · 110mTsukiko, raised by her mother Yoko after her father's death, relies on their shared support. One evening, Yoko returns home heavily intoxicated with Kenji, a blond young man, and announces her intention to marry him to Tsukiko.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.3
  19. 319Talk, Talk, Talk posterTalk, Talk, TalkMovie · 2007 · 109mMitsuba is a student of the traditional Japanese art of rakugo, a style of comedic storytelling performed while seated. Despite being only average, he unexpectedly finds himself teaching three new students.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.9
  20. 320Sword of Desperation posterSword of DesperationMovie · 2010 · 114mKanemi Sanzaemon is a skilled swordsman haunted by his past. Three years prior, he killed Renko, the mistress of the powerful daimyo Tabu Ukyou. Surprisingly, he received a light sentence and was released after a year, returning to his clan. Soon after, his wife Mutsue dies, and he takes in her niece Satoo. Satoo develops feelings for Kanemi and helps him find a renewed sense of purpose. Meanwhile, Kanemi perfects his distinctive "bird-catching" sword style, preparing for his first real battle against the formidable swordsman Hayatonosho Obiya.Stream onMidnight PulpCineverse Amazon ChannelCineverseIMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8
  21. 321The Story of Yanagawa's Canals posterThe Story of Yanagawa's CanalsMovie · 1987 · 167mThis documentary offers a glimpse into the ongoing efforts to preserve and restore the historic canal system in Yanagawa, Fukuoka. The film blends documentary footage with subtle animation to illustrate the canal's importance and the work being done to maintain it.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.9
  22. 322Permanent Nobara posterPermanent NobaraMovie · 2010 · 100mNaoko returns to her hometown with her young daughter, where her mother Masako operates the town's only beauty parlor. The local women gather there to share stories about their romantic disappointments and joke about crude things. Hidden from them, Naoko has been having a secret affair with her former teacher, Kashima.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.5
  23. 3239 Souls poster9 SoulsMovie · 2003 · 120m · Crime, Comedy, DramaNine prisoners escape from their overcrowded cell after finding a hole. They set out to find the key to the universe, which another prisoner, known as the Counterfeit King, claimed to have hidden.Stream onFilm Movement Plus Amazon ChannelFilm Movement PlusIMDb 7.2TMDB 6.4
  24. 324Gensen-Kan Inn posterGensen-Kan InnMovie · 1993 · 98mThis anthology film adapts the stories of manga artist Yoshiharu Tsuge. Each segment features Tsube, a young cartoonist. In the first story, Tsube rents a dilapidated cottage and meets an eccentric elderly man named Ri. Soon after, Ri, his unusual wife, and their two impoverished children move in. The wife begins taking cucumbers from his garden, while the children consume all the food.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.0
  25. 325The Castle of Sand posterThe Castle of SandMovie · 1974 · 143m · Crime, Mystery, DramaTwo experienced detectives in Tokyo investigate the brutal murder of an elderly man found dead in a rail yard. As they investigate the victim's life and relationships, they uncover a complex network of lies, betrayals, and hidden secrets connected to his death. The detectives navigate the city's dark side while confronting personal challenges and moral questions. The story unfolds with increasing tension, questioning what justice truly means as it leads to a surprising and emotionally powerful resolution.Stream onCriterion ChannelIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3
  26. 326Tony Takitani posterTony TakitaniMovie · 2004 · 77m · DramaA withdrawn illustrator develops feelings for a vibrant young woman with a passion for shopping.Stream onMetrographStrand Releasing Amazon ChannelKanopyIMDb 7.2TMDB 6.7
  27. 327The Third Murder posterThe Third MurderMovie · 2017 · 125m · Drama, Mystery, CrimeA lawyer hired to defend someone accused of robbery and murder starts to question the official story.Stream onFilm Movement Plus Amazon ChannelFilm Movement PlusHooplaIMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6
  28. 328Bounce Ko Gals posterBounce Ko GalsMovie · 1997 · 110mJonko manages a circle of high school girls who work in paid dating. Raku is a street dancer. Togo, raised in the US, has recently returned to Japan and is eager to leave for New York. Their connections with talent scouts and the yakuza lead them into danger over the course of a single day and night in Tokyo's Shibuya district.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.6
  29. 329Kids Return posterKids ReturnMovie · 1996 · 107m · Drama, CrimeShinji and Masaru, longtime classmates known for their schoolyard mischief, leave education behind. Shinji takes up small-time boxing to survive, while Masaru descends into the dangerous world of the yakuza. Both men confront the harsh realities of life and the repercussions of their past. The film examines friendship, regret, and the difficulty of escaping destructive patterns. As Shinji and Masaru's decisions unfold, the story highlights how choices can profoundly shape a person's future.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9
  30. 330The Summit: A Chronicle Of Stones to Serenity posterThe Summit: A Chronicle Of Stones to SerenityMovie · 2009 · 139mIn 1907, a group of men attempt to scale an unclimbed mountain in a remote, unexplored part of Japan.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.2
  31. 331Actress posterActressMovie · 1987 · 130mThis is the story of Kinuyo Tanaka, a celebrated Japanese actress, and her significant professional connection with director Kenji Mizoguchi.IMDb 6.5TMDB 7.0
  32. 332A Scream from Nowhere posterA Scream from NowhereMovie · 1977 · 118mIn 1930, a novelist meets a fan, sparking a chain of strange occurrences. These events escalate and end with the death of a wealthy industrialist who may have been concealing a secret life.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.0
  33. 333Tokyo Olympiad posterTokyo OlympiadMovie · 1965 · 170m · DocumentaryKon Ichikawa's 1965 film, "Tokyo Olympiad," offers a captivating look at the 1964 Summer Olympics, focusing on the energy and emotions of athletes and spectators alike. The film explores the human connections and determination at play during this historic event. A notable scene features a tense pole-vaulting competition between West Germany and the United States, where athletic achievement meets audience excitement. The film also highlights an inspiring marathon race through Tokyo's streets, culminating in a powerful moment as Ethiopian runner Abebe Bikila wins a second gold medal. "Tokyo Olympiad" also follows Chad's young runner, Ahamed Isa, as he represents his country with pride. The documentary celebrates the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie inherent in the Olympics, leaving viewers deeply moved.Stream onHBO MaxCriterion ChannelHBO Max Amazon ChannelIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8
  34. 33447 Ronin poster47 RoninMovie · 1994 · 129mKon Ichikawa’s film recounts the true story of samurai loyalty and honor. After a young lord is ordered to commit ritual suicide, his devoted samurai followers become masterless warriors and dedicate themselves to exacting revenge for his death.IMDb 6.4TMDB 7.5
  35. 335Tokyo Fist posterTokyo FistMovie · 1995 · 87m · Thriller, Action, DramaThis drama follows Tsuda, a successful businessman, whose life changes when he unexpectedly meets his childhood friend Kojima on the subway. Learning that Kojima is now a semipro boxer, Tsuda grows suspicious of an affair between Kojima and his fiancée, Hizuru. As conflict escalates, Tsuda begins rigorous boxing training to confront the situation himself. The story ends with a violent, emotional fight that challenges the limits of friendship, loyalty, and basic human nature.Stream onARROWMidnight PulpAsianCrushIMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7
  36. 336Turn posterTurnMovie · 2001 · 112mMaki is a gifted copper plate artist, but her first gallery show is cut short when she's hit by a truck. She awakens to find herself back home. Stepping outside, she discovers the city is deserted, and something is terribly amiss. Days repeat, each beginning at 2:15 in the afternoon. Slowly, things begin to change – the phone rings, and Maki realizes she is not alone.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8
  37. 337A Man with Style posterA Man with StyleMovie · 2011 · 110mMiyata became a single father to his two children after his wife's death. He then notices a change in his health and believes he has stomach cancer.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.3
  38. 338The Ravine of Goodbye posterThe Ravine of GoodbyeMovie · 2013 · 116mIn a wooded valley, a baby is found dead, and the mother, Satomi, becomes the main suspect. Police investigation reveals Satomi was romantically involved with her neighbor, Ozaki, information disclosed by Ozaki's lover, Kanako.Stream onAsianCrushCineverseYouTubeIMDb 6.7TMDB 6.1
  39. 339Ring posterRingMovie · 1998 · 96m · Horror, ThrillerA mysterious video has lured many to their deaths. A determined journalist becomes fascinated by the video and decides to watch it. As she watches, she unknowingly unleashes a terrifying series of events that endanger her life and draw her into a dangerous world of lies and horror. This story examines the risks of curiosity and the dark side of seeking the truth when confronted with unimaginable evil.Stream onMUBIPhiloBFI Player Amazon ChannelIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1
  40. 340Fly with the Gold posterFly with the GoldMovie · 2012 · 129mKota learns of a planned heist: 1.5 billion yen worth of gold bars from Sumita Bank. He joins forces with Kitagawa, an old college friend, to pull it off. They enlist the help of Noda, a bank security employee; a North Korean spy disguised as a student; Kitagawa's brother Haruki; and a former elevator engineer. Together, these six men prepare to execute a daring plan to overcome the bank’s advanced security.IMDb 5.5TMDB 6.0
  41. 341Wilderness: Part 1 posterWilderness: Part 1Movie · 2017 · 157mIn near-future Shinjuku, Tokyo, Shinji is released from youth detention. Barikan struggles with stuttering and shyness. They connect at a boxing gym, forging a friendship as they both pursue boxing despite their difficult circumstances.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.3
  42. 342Shadow of Fire posterShadow of FireMovie · 2023 · 95m · Drama, WarIn the shadowy underworld of the black market, a war orphan faces the harsh realities faced by those rebuilding their lives after World War II.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.3
  43. 343To Love posterTo LoveMovie · 1997 · 114mMitsu, a factory worker, develops a crush on Tsutomu, a man she met in Tokyo. They begin a relationship, but after some manipulation, Tsutomu leaves her alone. Haunted by his troubled past, he fears love and behaves cruelly. A month later, a changed Tsutomu returns, and they rekindle their romance, moving in together. Their happiness is disrupted when Mitsu discovers a strange sore on her arm, diagnosed as leprosy. She secretly enters a leper sanitarium, where she finds unexpected friendship and purpose among the other patients. Though she misses Tsutomu, she finds fulfillment helping them. When doctors later reveal the diagnosis was a mistake, Mitsu is overjoyed at the prospect of returning to Tsutomu. However, she realizes that going back would mean abandoning the friends she has made.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.5
  44. 344The Samurai That Night posterThe Samurai That NightMovie · 2012 · 120mFive years after his wife is killed in a hit-and-run, a heartbroken metalworker encounters the driver who caused the accident.Stream onNetflixNetflix Standard with AdsIMDb 6.1TMDB 5.2
  45. 345The Rendezvous posterThe RendezvousMovie · 1972 · 88mA young man and a beautiful woman meet, fall in love, and then separate during a train journey. It's a fleeting romance experienced over the course of their travel.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.3
  46. 346Love on Sunday posterLove on SundayMovie · 2006 · 89mAkira is forced to change schools after graduation due to her father's work. She's hesitant about the move because she harbors a secret affection for Nao.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.3
  47. 347The Long Excuse posterThe Long ExcuseMovie · 2016 · 124m · DramaA writer, recently widowed by a bus crash that also took his wife's life, struggles to process his grief. He finds an unexpected path toward healing while caring for the children of a fellow survivor – a working man who also lost his wife in the tragedy.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.5
  48. 348Jazz Daimyo posterJazz DaimyoMovie · 1986 · 85mIn mid-19th century Japan, a group of African-American slaves are shipwrecked and find themselves in a new land. They establish a presence in Japanese society by using their musical abilities to earn a living.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.7
  49. 349The Enchantment posterThe EnchantmentMovie · 1989 · 109mA Tokyo psychiatrist aims to advance his career by marrying the daughter of a respected doctor. His plans are complicated when a captivating yet deeply troubled tourist guide seeks his help.IMDb 6.1TMDB 2.7
  50. 350Red Peony Gambler: Oryu's Return posterRed Peony Gambler: Oryu's ReturnMovie · 1970 · 100mOryu is searching for a blind child she abandoned and becomes entangled in a violent Yakuza power struggle within the Tokyo Theater.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.3
  51. 351Gemini posterGeminiMovie · 1999 · 84m · Drama, Fantasy, HorrorA young doctor struggles with the rapid loss of his parents and suspects a sinister force is targeting him. His wife, suffering from amnesia and unable to remember her past or the events surrounding the tragedy, complicates their search for answers and safety. Together, they navigate fear and suspicion as they try to connect the pieces of their lives. The film explores trust, identity, and the strength of relationships as the doctor investigates his family's ordeal, uncovering truths that challenge everything they believe and test their ability to survive.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5
  52. 352Give It All posterGive It AllMovie · 1998 · 120mEtsuko is an ordinary Japanese high school student feeling uninspired and overlooked. Her life changes when she sees a boat on the water and decides to try rowing. After being turned away from the school's boys' rowing team, she starts her own, all-girls team, sparking a transformative experience for everyone involved.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0
  53. 353Heat Wave Island posterHeat Wave IslandMovie · 1969 · 104mNobuko Otowa, a former farmer from the Seto Inland Sea, relocates to the mainland seeking employment but is found dead. The film opens with her discovery, sparking an investigation that reveals the widespread problems faced by many impoverished farmers after World War II: drug trafficking, prostitution, and murder.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.0
  54. 354Double Suicide posterDouble SuicideMovie · 1969 · 105m · Drama, RomanceIn 18th-century Japan's strict society, Jihei, a paper mill owner, falls deeply in love with Koharu, a beautiful courtesan. Their passionate romance clashes with societal rules, and Jihei risks everything – his reputation, business, and family – to buy her freedom. But as their love story unfolds, their choices lead to painful betrayals, making a life together increasingly difficult. This story explores the complexities of love, sacrifice, and right and wrong within a world of rigid traditions.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.9
  55. 3550.5 mm poster0.5 mmMovie · 2014 · 198m · DramaSawa Yamagishi was a nursing-care helper who lost her job after refusing a request from a family to sleep with an elderly patient. Now homeless, she unexpectedly finds herself drawn into the lives of troubled seniors. Through these encounters, Sawa begins to confront her own past and find healing.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4
  56. 356The Stormy Times posterThe Stormy TimesMovie · 1991 · 62m*The Stormy Times* is a series of three short films – *Dream Running*, *Grasshopper’s One-Game Match*, and *We Can Hear Joe’s Poem* – presented by Katsu Kanai as a tribute to his friend, Jônouchi Motoharu. The films are conceived as visual poems, accompanied by additional documentary footage.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3
  57. 357A Snake of June posterA Snake of JuneMovie · 2003 · 77m · Romance, Drama, ThrillerA woman is stalked by an unknown man. The stalking escalates into blackmail when he sends her compromising photographs. He gains control over her, forcing her to obey his demands, no matter what they are.Stream onBFI Player Amazon ChannelARROWAsianCrushIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.8
  58. 358Aiki posterAikiMovie · 2002 · 119mAfter a devastating car accident leaves a talented boxer with a crippling injury, he spirals into despair and self-destruction. Rejected by the boxing world and martial arts communities, he finds an unexpected path to recovery with the help of an Aikijujitsu master who designs specialized techniques for wheelchair users. What begins as a somber story transforms into a series of inspiring moments as the young man discovers his life still holds possibilities.IMDb 6.9TMDB 4.3
  59. 359Bicycle Sighs posterBicycle SighsMovie · 1990 · 93mShiro and Keita, both having failed to get into university, are working as newspaper delivery boys in their hometown. Shiro is determined to finish a film they began together, but Keita is less keen on the project.Stream onYouTubeGoogle Play MoviesIMDb 5.4TMDB 5.5
  60. 360The Rocking Horsemen posterThe Rocking HorsemenMovie · 1992 · 135mIn 1965, high school student Takeyoshi Fujiwara is captivated by the sound of "Pipeline" by The Ventures. Inspired, he and three friends start a band called "The Rocking Horsemen." This is a lighthearted and affectionate look at high school and life in a Japanese small town during the 1960s.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.8
  61. 361I Are You, You Am Me posterI Are You, You Am MeMovie · 1982 · 113mIn a quiet Japanese coastal town, 9th-graders Kazuo and Kazumi accidentally trigger a supernatural event at a local temple, resulting in a body swap. The story follows their efforts to navigate the challenges of junior high school as they grapple with each other's lives, creating a heartwarming and funny coming-of-age story.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.6
  62. 362No Life King posterNo Life KingMovie · 1989 · 106mA group of boys become completely absorbed by the newest video game, The Legend Of Life King IV.IMDb 6.3
  63. 363The Motive posterThe MotiveMovie · 2004 · 160mFour people are found murdered in a luxury apartment. They all appear to be related, but the investigation reveals that one of the victims was not a family member.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.4
  64. 364A.K.A. Serial Killer posterA.K.A. Serial KillerMovie · 1975 · 86mAKA Serial Killer explores the social and political turmoil in Japan during the 1960s through the story of nineteen-year-old serial killer Norio Nagayama. The film critiques media sensationalism by portraying the young man's crimes as a reflection of his surroundings.IMDb 6.8TMDB 5.7
  65. 365A Class to Remember III: The New Voyage posterA Class to Remember III: The New VoyageMovie · 1998 · 133mA widow struggling to support her autistic son loses her job and enrolls in a technical college to improve her skills. There, she connects with other people seeking fresh beginnings, and develops a secret relationship with a former office worker.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.2
  66. 366Tokiwa: The Manga Apartment posterTokiwa: The Manga ApartmentMovie · 1996 · 110mA renowned apartment building remains, once home and workplace to legendary manga creators like Osamu Tezuka, Shotaro Ishinomori, and Fujio Akatsuka, who forged many shared experiences there.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.0
  67. 367All Under the Moon posterAll Under the MoonMovie · 1993 · 109mIn 1990s Tokyo, a Korean taxi driver navigates the city, encountering passengers and workplaces with a blend of humor and heartbreak.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.5
  68. 368A Night in Nude posterA Night in NudeMovie · 1993 · 110mJiro, a Tokyo resident who takes on any job, meets a woman who says she's from Fukuoka and wants a tour of the city. Unbeknownst to him, she's fleeing her Yakuza boyfriend, and Jiro is about to become involved in her dangerous escape.Stream onEternal FamilyMidnight Pulp Amazon ChannelFawesomeIMDb 6.6TMDB 5.7
  69. 369Dawn of a New Day: The Man Behind VHS posterDawn of a New Day: The Man Behind VHSMovie · 2002 · 108mThis Japanese film recounts the story of VHS's creation. It centers on Kagatani Shizuo, an electronics worker who motivates his colleagues to boost sales and secure their positions. Their strategy involves developing the VHS format, leading to a competitive struggle against Sony and their competing standard. Ultimately, they succeed in winning out.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.0
  70. 370Submersion of Japan posterSubmersion of JapanMovie · 1973 · 143mDuring a study of underwater earthquakes, a team of geophysicists discovers that the Japanese islands are on a collision course with the ocean. The islands, already vulnerable to volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, will soon be submerged, resulting in the deaths of millions of people.IMDb 5.6TMDB 6.9
  71. 371Godzilla Minus One posterGodzilla Minus OneMovie · 2023 · 125m · Science Fiction, Horror, ActionPostwar Japan faces further destruction with the arrival of Godzilla. Abandoned by the military and government, the survivors band together to confront the relentless monster.Stream onNetflixNetflix Standard with AdsAmazon VideoIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6
  72. 372We Shall Overcome Someday posterWe Shall Overcome SomedayMovie · 2005 · 118mRomeo, also known as Kosuke Matsuyama, is a typical, peaceful high school sophomore. He unexpectedly gets caught in a riot of Korean students who are furious about insults directed at two Korean girls by some of his classmates. He narrowly avoids danger, and soon after, he and his friend Yoshio are tasked by their teacher to invite the Korean students to a friendly soccer game to help ease tensions.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.2
  73. 373What the Snow Brings posterWhat the Snow BringsMovie · 2005 · 112mAfter receiving a lead, Manabu Yazaki bets his remaining money on the veteran horse "Unryu" in a draft-horse race in his hometown of Obihiro, Hokkaido. Unryu is ridden by Makie, the daughter of a famous jockey.Stream onIndieFlix Shorts Amazon ChannelFawesomeIMDb 6.8TMDB 5.7
  74. 374Pulse posterPulseMovie · 2001 · 119m · Horror, Thriller, MysteryIn sprawling Tokyo, some people drawn to the afterlife find solace in escaping the loneliness and unhappiness of modern life.Stream onPhiloARROWAMC+ Amazon ChannelIMDb 6.6TMDB 6.7
  75. 375Close-Knit posterClose-KnitMovie · 2017 · 127m · DramaA young girl, overlooked by her mother, finds a loving home with her uncle and his transgender girlfriend. They provide her with a supportive and nurturing environment.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1
  76. 376The Scandalous Adventures of Buraikan posterThe Scandalous Adventures of BuraikanMovie · 1970 · 104mIn Edo's pleasure district, a wanted outlaw ignites a rebellion against increasingly strict and oppressive laws.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.8
  77. 377Canary posterCanaryMovie · 2005 · 132mFollowing the deadly Sarin gas attack on Tokyo's subway system, two children who have both been abandoned by their families find themselves drawn together. The story is based on the true events of the devastating attacks carried out by members of the Aum Shinrikyo cult.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.9
  78. 378Bangkok Nites posterBangkok NitesMovie · 2016 · 183mIn Bangkok, 2015, Ozawa, adrift and without a home, encounters Luck, a woman at the peak of her career on Thaniya Street, a district catering exclusively to Japanese men. Together, they embark on a journey to explore the lingering effects of colonialism, searching for a lost sense of paradise.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5
  79. 379My Man posterMy ManMovie · 2014 · 129mWhen Hana is a young child, a devastating tsunami destroys her town and family. At a shelter, a distant relative named Jungo finds her alone and takes her in as his daughter.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.8
  80. 380Linda Linda Linda posterLinda Linda LindaMovie · 2005 · 114m · Comedy, Music, DramaThree days before their school festival, guitarist Kei, drummer Kyoko, and bassist Nozomi must find a new lead singer for their band. They choose Son, a Korean exchange student whose Japanese isn't strong. With the festival's rock concert just around the corner, the group races to learn three songs – including a classic '80s track by The Blue Hearts called "Linda Linda."Stream onCriterion ChannelIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5
  81. 381Night on the Galactic Railroad posterNight on the Galactic RailroadMovie · 1985 · 108mGiovanni leads a bleak existence, consumed by work and relentlessly mocked by his classmates. His workplace offers no warmth or support. Overwhelmed by social isolation, he impulsively boards a train, leaving his unhappy home behind. He's joined by Campanella, a fellow student, and together they begin a journey that will fundamentally change Giovanni’s life.Stream onCrunchyrollRetroCrush Amazon ChannelEternal FamilyIMDb 7.0TMDB 7.2
  82. 382The Little House posterThe Little HouseMovie · 2014 · 136m · Romance, DramaAfter the passing of Taki, an unmarried woman with no family, Takeshi, a young relative, finds pages of her detailed recollections. These entries reveal her past as a housemaid and nanny for the Hirai family, living in a small house with a red-tiled roof in Tokyo.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8
  83. 383Gassan posterGassanMovie · 1979 · 103mAs winter approaches, Akira travels to the foothills of Mount Gassan. There, he visits a local temple and spends time with the community, developing feelings for a woman named Fumiko.
  84. 384The Emperor's Naked Army Marches On posterThe Emperor's Naked Army Marches OnMovie · 1987 · 122m · DocumentaryKenzo Okuzaki, a 62-year-old World War II veteran who fought in the New Guinea campaign, undertakes a personal quest to understand the truth behind disturbing events from one of the war's fiercest battles. As part of a trapped Japanese unit, Okuzaki carries painful memories of atrocities committed by his fellow soldiers under extreme duress. Seeking to comprehend the emotions that fueled these horrific acts, he interviews surviving veterans and their families. His investigation reveals a complicated mix of guilt, fear, loyalty, and humanity surrounding the mysterious killing of two Japanese privates in his unit. Through this journey, Okuzaki confronts his own involvement in the tragedy and searches for redemption in the war's aftermath.Stream onCriterion ChannelAmazon VideoFandango At HomeIMDb 8.1TMDB 7.5
  85. 385Dear Doctor posterDear DoctorMovie · 2009 · 127mDr. Osamu Ino is a highly respected physician in his rural community. His skill and commitment deeply affect Keisuke Soma, a new medical intern who initially resists him. However, Soma and the villagers' respect for Ino is shaken when they discover a troubling event from his past. Now, Dr. Ino must confront the consequences of his former actions.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.4
  86. 386The Stars Converge posterThe Stars ConvergeMovie · 2004 · 114mChirusoku Summer is set in the sister cities of Pusan, South Korea, and Shimonoseki-shi, Yamaguchi. In the summer of 2003, four girls from Shimonoseki-shi travel to Pusan for a sports festival, where one of them falls in love.IMDb 6.5TMDB 7.7
  87. 387The Silk Road posterThe Silk RoadMovie · 1988 · 143mIn 1026, students from western China are forced to join the army of Crown Prince Li Yuanhao of Xi Xia, who aims to control the Silk Road. One student, Zhao Xingde, gains favor with his commander, Zhu Wangli. While attacking a fortress, Xingde encounters Tsurpia, a Uighur princess, and hides her. They fall in love. Sent away for further study, Xingde leaves Tsurpia in Zhu's care, but returns to find she is promised to Li. Tragedy ensues, and Xingde and Zhu make a pact to seek revenge when Li arrives in Dun-Huang, the region’s center of learning. Despite facing great challenges, they devise a unique way to commemorate their lives and love.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5
  88. 388Sway posterSwayMovie · 2006 · 120mThis is a psychologically intense story about a family desperately trying to maintain appearances, but hiding deep-seated problems.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.8
  89. 389Only Yesterday posterOnly YesterdayMovie · 1991 · 119m · Animation, Drama, RomanceThe film follows Taeko as she reflects on her life, moving between the present and memories of her youth. It explores the difference between her youthful dreams and the reality of her adult life. As we experience these personal moments with Taeko, we consider whether our dreams can survive time or if they change with life. This moving story suggests that our choices and experiences shape who we become, connecting our past, present, and future.Stream onHBO MaxHBO Max Amazon ChannelAmazon VideoIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4
  90. 390Tokyo Sonata posterTokyo SonataMovie · 2008 · 120m · DramaAs his family falls apart following his father's job loss, a young boy discovers a passion for the piano.Stream onTubi TVAmazon VideoIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4
  91. 391Yunagi City, Sakura Country posterYunagi City, Sakura CountryMovie · 2007 · 118mThirteen years later, Minami (Kumiko Aso), one of the film’s two main characters, reflects as she dies in 1958 from an illness caused by radiation exposure: "They did it! They were able to kill another person!" The film *Yunagi no Machi, Sakura no Kuni* explores the experiences of survivors of the 1945 Hiroshima bombing and their descendants in the present day. Based on a comic by Fumiyo Kono, the story shifts between these two time periods, gently portraying the sorrow and shame felt by the quiet people of Hiroshima through their daily lives. Only a few scenes depict the bombing and its aftermath.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0
  92. 392Cold Fish posterCold FishMovie · 2011 · 146m · Drama, Thriller, CrimeShamoto owns a small tropical fish shop. When his daughter Mitsuko is caught shoplifting, a man named Murata intervenes to resolve the situation with the store manager. Murata also runs a tropical fish shop and he and Shamoto quickly become friends. But Murata harbors many hidden secrets beneath his friendly demeanor.Stream onMometuYouTubeGoogle Play MoviesIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9
  93. 393Nobody To Watch Over Me posterNobody To Watch Over MeMovie · 2009 · 118mFifteen-year-old girl goes into police protection to evade relentless journalists after her brother is arrested for murder.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.1
  94. 394The Witch of the West Is Dead posterThe Witch of the West Is DeadMovie · 2008 · 115mThirteen-year-old Mai avoids school because of her asthma. Her parents arrange for her to stay with her grandmother in the countryside. Convinced her grandmother is a witch, Mai requests lessons. Her grandmother playfully agrees, guiding Mai towards greater responsibility and appreciation for life's simple pleasures.IMDb 6.6TMDB 7.3
  95. 395The Brutal Hopelessness of Love posterThe Brutal Hopelessness of LoveMovie · 2007 · 117mMovie star Nami is interviewed about her latest film, which mirrors her own life. The film's story parallels her husband Yosuke's affair with a younger actress, with Yosuke and the new woman named Junko mirroring the characters in the movie. During the interview, Nami becomes lost in memories of her own encounters with strangers on a night train – experiences that echo the film's plot. The movie explores Nami’s complex motivations, whether revenge or desire, as she engages in intimate relationships with various men in different settings. Director Takashi Ishii uses striking nudity and scenes of violence to examine female sexuality.IMDb 5.7TMDB 8.5
  96. 396Josee, the Tiger and the Fish posterJosee, the Tiger and the FishMovie · 2003 · 116m · Drama, RomanceA part-time worker at a mahjong parlor meets a young woman in a baby carriage – she is unable to walk. He develops a friendship with her and starts to feel drawn to her.Stream onRetrocrushRetroCrush Amazon ChannelAsianCrushIMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9
  97. 397Deep River posterDeep RiverMovie · 1995 · 130mSeeking escape from their histories, a group of Japanese tourists travel to India.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0
  98. 398A Chain of Islands posterA Chain of IslandsMovie · 1965 · 116mThe death of a US Army sergeant in Tokyo Bay sparks an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his drowning. The inquiry reveals a complex web of criminal activity: a black market operation dealing in counterfeit money, linked to murder and a wider conspiracy.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.4
  99. 399An Innocent Witch posterAn Innocent WitchMovie · 1965 · 98mAyako, a young woman from a fishing village, is sold by her family to a brothel when her father falls ill. She rapidly loses her naiveté and innocence there.Stream onCriterion ChannelIMDb 7.0TMDB 7.1
  100. 400Gamera 3: Revenge of Iris posterGamera 3: Revenge of IrisMovie · 1999 · 108m · Fantasy, Science Fiction, HorrorA massive monster, Gyaos, reappears, endangering the Earth. Gamera, the giant turtle who has defended humanity for years, has now broken his connection with people. As Gyaos causes destruction, Nagamine and Asagi investigate this new danger. During the chaos, a young orphan named Ayana finds an unusual creature while mourning her family. She names it Iris and develops a strong bond with it. While Nagamine and Asagi try to stop Gyaos, they also deal with Ayana and Iris. Ayana secretly blames Gamera for her family's death. The story explores grief, revenge, and forgiveness as the heroes try to convince Ayana and Iris to abandon their plan to destroy Gamera.Stream onARROWScreambox Amazon ChannelMidnight PulpIMDb 7.1TMDB 7.4