W2TCH

999 Essential Japanese Films Collection

998 titles

  1. 401The Blue Bird posterThe Blue BirdMovie · 2008 · 105mA junior high school is shaken after a student, Noguchi, attempted suicide following bullying last term. The new school year begins with the arrival of a substitute teacher for the second-year class. Mr. Murauchi (Hiroshi Abe) surprises the students with his stutter. He communicates with direct, honest statements. His first task for the class is to return a student's desk and chair to their original position. Every morning, Murauchi greets Noguchi’s empty desk with a simple "Good morning." This action creates a stir among the school community, but Murauchi persists. Eventually, his time at the school comes to an end.IMDb 6.8TMDB 5.4
  2. 402Children of Nagasaki posterChildren of NagasakiMovie · 1983 · 126mAugust 9, 1945. At 11:02 am, an atomic bomb is dropped on Urakami, Nagasaki. The film tells the story of Dr. Nagai and his family.Stream onCriterion ChannelIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.1
  3. 403Path of the Beast posterPath of the BeastMovie · 1980 · 71m · Drama, RomanceIn Japan, 17-year-old Saki lives a difficult life with her single mother, working to support them by selling noodles and occasionally engaging in sexual encounters with her boyfriend, Sotoo. Her life changes when she meets truck driver Ataru. Saki begins to question her own behavior, believing it's a trait inherited from her mother. She begins a journey of self-discovery, choosing to end her relationships with both Sotoo and Ataru to avoid repeating her mother’s mistakes. Directed by Tatsumi Kumashiro, this Japanese drama explores themes of love, desire, and family, highlighted by a compelling performance from lead actress Ayako Yoshimura. 'Shoujo Shofu: Kemonomichi' presents a raw and unforgettable look at human connection and the challenges of personal growth.IMDb 4.6TMDB 4.0
  4. 404The Face of Another posterThe Face of AnotherMovie · 1966 · 122m · Drama, Science FictionThe film tells the story of an ambitious businessman who, after a severe car accident leaves him with a disfiguring facial injury, seeks help from his doctor to regain normalcy. The doctor creates a remarkably realistic mask that allows the businessman to appear as he once did. As he grows accustomed to the disguise, however, a subtle but profound change takes hold within him, altering his behavior. The story explores themes of identity, self-perception, and the effects of deception, leaving audiences questioning which version of the man – the injured businessman or the person hidden behind the mask – will ultimately define him.Stream onCriterion ChannelMometuIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8
  5. 405Gonin Saga posterGonin SagaMovie · 2015 · 129mSeiji, a third-generation member of the "Gosei kai" gang, dedicates himself to strengthening the organization. At the same time, a journalist's investigation into a 19-year-old case leads him to Hayato, Daisuke, and Asami.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.1
  6. 406M/Other posterM/OtherMovie · 1999 · 147mTetsuro and his girlfriend Aki are enjoying a comfortable life in Tokyo, focused on their careers. Their peaceful routine is disrupted when Tetsuro brings his eight-year-old son, Shun, to live with them. This happens while his ex-wife recovers from a car accident.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.6
  7. 407Guilty of Romance posterGuilty of RomanceMovie · 2011 · 145m · Thriller, Horror, MysteryA woman is found dead in a rundown apartment in Tokyo's love hotel district. While police investigate, the wife of a romance novelist leads a seemingly routine life devoid of passion. Seeking an escape from this emptiness, she embraces her desires and becomes a nude model performing sexual acts for a camera. She soon finds a mentor and begins selling herself to strangers, all while maintaining the appearance of being a devoted wife at home.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.9
  8. 408Onibi: The Fire Within posterOnibi: The Fire WithinMovie · 1997 · 101mKunihiro, an ex-hitman who has served over half his life in prison, wants to leave his criminal past behind. However, the current gangs aren't up to the task, forcing him to rely on his old yakuza skills. His feelings for Asako, a captivating piano player, unexpectedly reignite his dangerous instincts, threatening to consume those around him. Considered a highlight of Mochizuki's work, *Onibi* masterfully balances intense gangster action with a quiet romance. The director, with a background in adult films, brings a new intensity and passion to the traditional yakuza genre.IMDb 6.8TMDB 4.6
  9. 409Memories of Matsuko posterMemories of MatsukoMovie · 2006 · 130m · Comedy, DramaSho, his aunt Matsuko's nephew, goes through her things after she dies and gradually uncovers the key events that led to her devastating unhappiness.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8
  10. 410Island of Hell posterIsland of HellMovie · 1977 · 141mIn 1946, a hardened detective arrives on a remote Japanese island to solve the murders of three sisters.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.0
  11. 411Buddies posterBuddiesMovie · 1989 · 114mThis film, directed by Yasuo Furuhata and based on a well-regarded novel by Kuniko Mukoda, explores the unraveling of a deep friendship complicated by romantic feelings.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.9
  12. 412Blood Type: Blue posterBlood Type: BlueMovie · 1978 · 133mUnidentified flying objects arrive on Earth. Those who witness them discover their blood has turned blue. This sparks widespread panic and hysteria, leading to persecution of the newly-changed "blue-bloods" by the rest of humanity. Eventually, familiar and troubling actions are taken against them.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.5
  13. 413My Way posterMy WayMovie · 1974 · 130mThis true story follows an elderly woman as she tirelessly works for nine months to bring back her husband's body. She faces relentless obstacles from government bureaucracy and widespread neglect throughout her difficult journey.IMDb 6.8TMDB 5.7
  14. 414The Mosquito on the Tenth Floor posterThe Mosquito on the Tenth FloorMovie · 1983 · 108mA police officer from a modest background indulges in a life of fleeting pleasures – cheap alcohol and casual relationships – while struggling to evade debt collectors and the weight of his own unfulfilled aspirations.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3
  15. 415Charisma posterCharismaMovie · 1999 · 104m · Mystery, Drama, ThrillerA seasoned detective must race against time to rescue a prominent politician from a dangerous kidnapper. A moment of doubt forces him to walk away from his life, leaving his career and family behind. Seeking peace in a remote mountain forest, he discovers a mysterious tree called Charisma. Connecting with this unusual plant, the detective rediscovers his resolve and a sense of purpose. The film examines themes of redemption, self-discovery, and the transformative power of nature as he confronts the repercussions of his choices and seeks to understand himself.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6
  16. 416The Half Moon posterThe Half MoonMovie · 1987 · 85mYoko, a 23-year-old office worker, discovers that intimacy often arises unexpectedly. Following college, she maintains close relationships with Yokoyama and Ishida, two male friends who both have romantic feelings for her. Yokoyama is consistently devoted, but acts impulsively when it comes to love. Ishida is more direct in his approach. When Yokoyama proposes, Yoko questions the idea that a conventional marriage leads to happiness. Is choosing an "ordinary" partner the path to a fulfilling life together?IMDb 5.3TMDB 1.0
  17. 417The Stranger Within a Woman posterThe Stranger Within a WomanMovie · 1966 · 102mTashiro runs into his best friend Sugimoto at a bar near the apartment where Sugimoto's wife was found dead. Though police aren't investigating Tashiro, he's consumed by guilt and confesses to his wife, Masako. Hoping to ease his conscience, he also confesses to Sugimoto. Both his wife and friend are shocked and find it hard to believe he could be involved.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3
  18. 418Ryuji posterRyujiMovie · 1983 · 92mRyuji attempts to leave the yakuza to focus on his wife and daughter, but the shift to honest work proves challenging for someone accustomed to a life of effortless wealth.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7
  19. 419Shadow of China posterShadow of ChinaMovie · 1990 · 131mA Chinese immigrant pursues success as a businessman in Hong Kong, but his past as a radical has hardened him into a cynical man.IMDb 6.2TMDB 7.0
  20. 420Contemporary Tales of Chivalry: Forbidden Love posterContemporary Tales of Chivalry: Forbidden LoveMovie · 1971 · 97mThis is the story of someone who prefers to be alone, but finds themselves wrestling with feelings of empathy and a sense of responsibility.IMDb 6.4TMDB 7.0
  21. 421Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade posterJin-Roh: The Wolf BrigadeMovie · 1999 · 102m · Animation, Drama, RomanceThis intense drama follows a counter-terrorism operative grappling with the emotional fallout of a young girl's suicide bombing. While undergoing retraining, he becomes entangled in the intricate dynamics and rivalries within the police department. The girl's sister emerges as a significant presence in his life, and their mutual grief forges an unforeseen connection. The film explores themes of guilt, redemption, and strength as the protagonist confronts his emotional wounds and seeks a path toward healing and a fresh start.Stream onCrunchyrollTubi TVIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4
  22. 422Have You Seen the Barefoot God? posterHave You Seen the Barefoot God?Movie · 1986 · 100mTwo close friends face diverging paths. A gifted painter, admired by many, chooses to leave their hometown to pursue art. The quiet poet, content with a future tied to his mother's business, remains behind.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.0
  23. 423Roujin Z posterRoujin ZMovie · 1991 · 80m · Animation, Drama, Science FictionThis drama centers on Mr. Takazawa, an elderly man cared for by Haruko, a dedicated nursing student. The Japanese Ministry of Public Welfare introduces Z-001, a new computerized hospital bed with robotic functions, designed to be more efficient than human nursing. Haruko questions whether the machine can truly understand and meet Mr. Takazawa's individual needs, believing in the importance of human connection in healing. The film examines the challenges of technology in healthcare, prompting reflection on the irreplaceable human elements of patient care.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5
  24. 424Audition posterAuditionMovie · 2000 · 115m · Horror, DramaSeven years after his wife's death, widower Shigeharu asks a colleague for advice on finding a new spouse. They create an opportunity by staging an audition through their film company. While interviewing several women, Shigeharu is drawn to the reserved Asami. However, their connection takes a dark turn as Asami reveals a hidden side.Stream onRetroCrush Amazon ChannelHi-YAHARROWIMDb 7.1TMDB 7.1
  25. 425Down the Drain posterDown the DrainMovie · 1993 · 92mJunko, a student, experiences a series of unfortunate events after she's caught using her friend's train pass. Her small mistake triggers a major, escalating series of problems.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.2
  26. 426Howl's Moving Castle posterHowl's Moving CastleMovie · 2004 · 119m · Fantasy, Animation, AdventureSophie, a young milliner, is cursed by a witch who enters her shop, transforming her into an elderly woman. She meets a wizard named Howl and becomes involved in his opposition to fighting for the king.Stream onHBO MaxHBO Max Amazon ChannelAmazon VideoIMDb 8.2TMDB 8.4
  27. 427Atlanta BoogieMovie · 1996 · 100m"Atlanta Boogie" follows a staged track meet pitting Yokohama's respected residents against those they wish to remove: undocumented foreign workers, troublemakers, young delinquents, and the elderly.TMDB 5.0
  28. 428Tree Without Leaves posterTree Without LeavesMovie · 1986 · 105mHaru, a seasoned screenwriter, retreats to the remote forests of Nagano to focus on his first novel. As the sole remaining member of his family, he aims to document the history of his lineage.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.8
  29. 429Onmyoji posterOnmyojiMovie · 2001 · 116m · Drama, Horror, HistoryIn the dark days of the Heian period, as the kingdom faces supernatural threats, the emperor depends on the onmyōji to control them. But growing political tensions spark conflict within the order, leading to betrayal. Now, Seimei, a gifted member of the clan, must confront his master, Dōson, to restore peace to the land.Stream onHowdy Amazon ChannelFawesomeYouTube FreeIMDb 6.2TMDB 6.3
  30. 430Princess Raccoon posterPrincess RaccoonMovie · 2005 · 111mThe banished prince Amechiyo falls in love with Tanukihime, a princess disguised as a human. This operetta blends comedy, singing, and dancing with a central love story.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.5
  31. 431Pistol Opera posterPistol OperaMovie · 2001 · 112mA deadly assassin finds herself targeted by her own colleagues, who are eliminating rivals to climb the ranks. She must fight for survival as they try to eliminate her.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.0
  32. 432Summer Days with Coo posterSummer Days with CooMovie · 2007 · 138m · Animation, Fantasy, ComedyOver 200 years after his time, a solitary Kappa survives in modern Japan and is discovered by a young boy named Koichi. Koichi secretly adopts the Kappa, whom he names Coo. Together, the unlikely friends search for remote locations, hoping to find other members of Coo's species.Stream onHooplaKanopyAmazon VideoIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.8
  33. 433For Kayako posterFor KayakoMovie · 1984 · 117mThis film explores the lives of the significant Korean community in Japan, focusing on the romance between Kayako, a Japanese woman, and Im, a Korean man.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.2
  34. 434Nabbie's Love posterNabbie's LoveMovie · 1999 · 92mNanako travels to her island home, Aguni, to visit her grandmother, Nabbie. Unbeknownst to Nanako, the ferry carrying her also brings Nabbie's old flame, who has returned to Aguni after many years away.Stream onNetflixNetflix Standard with AdsIMDb 7.0TMDB 7.6
  35. 435Sad Vacation posterSad VacationMovie · 2007 · 136mAbandoned by his mother, Kenji struggles to survive by taking on odd jobs, such as driving bar hostesses and their patrons. He also cares for the sister of a former friend who is incarcerated, and a young undocumented immigrant. His life takes a significant turn at a crucial moment.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.8
  36. 436The Woman with Red Hair posterThe Woman with Red HairMovie · 1979 · 73mJunko Miyashita, a mysterious woman, is picked up for a ride by Kenzo, a rough construction worker. He takes her to his small, rundown apartment in a poor neighborhood. She tells him she's fleeing an abusive husband, and they begin living together. Hoping to escape their harsh surroundings, they become consumed by a passionate, obsessive relationship.Stream onAMC+ Amazon ChannelSpectrum On DemandIMDb 5.6TMDB 5.9
  37. 437Dolls posterDollsMovie · 2002 · 114m · Drama, RomancePuppetry is a central element of Dolls, mirroring the lives of the people in the film. The story focuses on Matsumoto and Sawako, a young couple whose relationship faces a crisis. Matsumoto's parents are forcing him into an arranged marriage with his boss's daughter.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.6
  38. 438Untamagiru posterUntamagiruMovie · 1989 · 120mThis is a magical realist story about Untamagiru, a legendary hero from Okinawa, who helps organize the movement for an independent Okinawa in the years leading up to the island's return to Japan in 1972.IMDb 7.1TMDB 3.8
  39. 439A Girl Named Ann posterA Girl Named AnnMovie · 2024 · 113mA young woman struggling with drug addiction escapes an abusive home, finding a chance at healing through the kindness of others. But as she begins to believe in a brighter future, the harsh realities of her past threaten to pull her back down.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.8
  40. 440First Love posterFirst LoveMovie · 2000 · 113mThis Japanese coming-of-age story begins after 17-year-old Sataka experiences a breakup. When her mother is hospitalized with a serious stomach ulcer, Sataka finds herself alone with her emotionally distant father. While searching for something to do, she discovers a love letter written to her mother decades ago. She sets out to find the letter's author, Shinichiro (Hiroyuki Sanada), a man who has been estranged from his wife and now spends his time at pachinko parlors. Sataka persistently encourages Shinichiro to change, and he eventually agrees to help her reconnect with her mother. As they spend time together, a friendship blossoms, with Sataka guiding him towards a healthier lifestyle and a new wardrobe. However, once Shinichiro's transformation is complete, he unexpectedly shifts the dynamic. The story culminates in a meeting between Shinichiro and Sataka's mother, marking a turning point for all of them.Stream onNetflixNetflix Standard with AdsHooplaIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9
  41. 441Spring Snow posterSpring SnowMovie · 2005 · 150mThis film adaptation of Mishima Yukio's *Spring Snow*, the first novel in his *Sea of Fertility* series, depicts the complicated and forbidden romance between two young people from Japan's aristocratic and wealthy classes in the early 1900s.IMDb 6.6TMDB 4.0
  42. 442Gravity's Clowns posterGravity's ClownsMovie · 2009 · 118mThe Okunos appear to be a typical, happy family: father Tadashi and his two talented sons, Izumi, a genetics researcher, and Haru, an artist. When arson attacks plague their neighborhood, clues found at the scenes point to the Okunos. Izumi and Haru investigate, gradually uncovering a painful family secret that resurfaces to trouble them.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.0
  43. 443Bashing posterBashingMovie · 2006 · 82mYuko, a Japanese aid worker, is taken hostage in Iraq. After her release and return home, she faces harsh judgment from her community. Society views her as a disgrace for assisting a nation other than Japan and for surviving capture without being killed – actions considered deeply shameful.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.0
  44. 444Crest of Betrayal posterCrest of BetrayalMovie · 1994 · 106mThe film intertwines two narratives: one set in 18th-century Japan, focusing on power struggles and faithfulness within the shogunate; the other is a ghost story centered on a captivating woman whose life is destroyed by love and wickedness.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.3
  45. 445The Battery posterThe BatteryMovie · 2007 · 118mTo care for his ailing younger brother, Takumi and his family relocate to a new town in Japan. There, Takumi, a remarkably talented baseball pitcher, increasingly isolates himself from family and friends as he prioritizes his sport above everything else.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.2
  46. 446Galaxy Express 999: The Movie posterGalaxy Express 999: The MovieMovie · 1979 · 128m · Adventure, Animation, Science FictionA young orphan named Tetsuro joins the Galaxy Express 999, hoping to find a mechanized body that promises immortality. Driven by a desire for revenge after his mother's death, he sees this transformation as his only way to achieve justice and live forever. During his journey, Tetsuro meets Maetel, a mysterious woman who looks strikingly like his mother. This unexpected connection forces him to confront questions about life, death, and the importance of human bonds as they travel across the galaxy together.Stream onCrunchyrollIMDb 7.4TMDB 6.8
  47. 447Life Back Then posterLife Back ThenMovie · 2011 · 131mKyohei Nagashima (Masaki Okada) isolates himself from the world, haunted by bullying from his high school years. He finds a new job cleaning out the homes of the recently deceased. There, he meets Yuki (Nana Eikura), a co-worker who also keeps to herself due to a past trauma. As they clear out these homes together, Kyohei and Yuki form a connection, gradually opening up to each other and to life. But their emotional wounds may not be strong enough to handle such profound changes.IMDb 6.2TMDB 4.4
  48. 448To the Ends of the Earth posterTo the Ends of the EarthMovie · 2019 · 120m · DramaYoko, a young Japanese woman, is accustomed to a reserved life. However, her carefully constructed world is challenged when she travels to Uzbekistan to film a new episode for her travel variety show.Stream onMetrographAsianCrushHooplaIMDb 6.7TMDB 6.3
  49. 449Tora-san, the Good Samaritan posterTora-san, the Good SamaritanMovie · 1971 · 92mFollowing an argument with his mother, Torajiro leaves home to find a wife.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.8
  50. 450Ley Lines posterLey LinesMovie · 1999 · 105m · Drama, Thriller, CrimeIn Tokyo, three young men of Chinese descent leave their rural homes in search of a better life. They navigate the vibrant streets of Shinjuku, trying to break free from their past. Their journey leads them to a Shanghai prostitute struggling with her own problems, and they become caught in the dangerous world of a powerful crime organization. Director Miike presents a sharp look at the hidden side of Japanese society and the challenges faced by those who aren't ethnically Japanese trying to fit in. The film unflinchingly portrays the characters’ struggles as they seek acceptance in a world that often feels unwelcoming. It explores questions of identity, belonging, and the cost of trying to belong.Stream onPhiloARROWAmazon VideoIMDb 6.9TMDB 6.3
  51. 451Curtain Call posterCurtain CallMovie · 2005 · 86mKaori is a driven journalist working for a prominent magazine. However, after writing a particular article, she's assigned to a community magazine in Fukuoka. An anonymous letter then leads her to an old, neglected theater called the 'Minato Theater' in Shimonoseki.IMDb 6.6
  52. 452My Secret Cache posterMy Secret CacheMovie · 1997 · 85mSakiko, a young bank teller with a strong attachment to money, is caught in a bank robbery and kidnapped. The robbers' getaway ends in a crash, spilling a suitcase full of cash into a river. Driven by desperation, Sakiko embarks on a relentless pursuit to recover the lost money.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5
  53. 453The Cowards Who Looked to the Sky posterThe Cowards Who Looked to the SkyMovie · 2012 · 142mThis film, adapted from the acclaimed novel, is a raw and intimate story about a group of people grappling with pain. It follows a depressed housewife, her teenage lover, and his friend – who is trying to support himself and his ailing grandmother. Their lives become intertwined, bringing both hardship and a quiet sense of optimism for what lies ahead. (TIFF)IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.6
  54. 454An Ocean to Cross posterAn Ocean to CrossMovie · 1980 · 120m · HistorySet in ancient Japan's Tenpyou era, this period drama follows four young monks on a dangerous journey to China. They are sent to learn Buddhism and bring back the respected high priest, Ganjin. The story explores their youthful naiveté alongside the culture and challenging events of Ganjin's life. Their transformative journey, filled with hardships and internal conflicts, is at the heart of this compelling historical story.IMDb 6.5
  55. 455A Story Written with Water posterA Story Written with WaterMovie · 1965 · 120mShizuo grapples with his feelings as he confronts his dreams, past memories, and the impending reality of his marriage. He finds himself torn between his fiancée and his love for his mother.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.2
  56. 456Living in the Sky posterLiving in the SkyMovie · 2020 · 118mFollowing the unexpected death of her parents, Naomi forms a close connection with Morinori Tokito, a well-known actor who shares her apartment building.IMDb 5.6TMDB 7.7
  57. 457And Your Bird Can Sing posterAnd Your Bird Can SingMovie · 2018 · 106mThree young adults form deep connections as they spend a carefree summer together in Hakodate, Hokkaido.Stream onTubi TVAmazon VideoIMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5
  58. 458The Pig's Retribution posterThe Pig's RetributionMovie · 1999 · 118mA young man, untouched by experience, journeys with three sex workers to a remote island to retrieve the remains of his father, who died and whose bones were bleached by the sun after washing ashore.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.2
  59. 459The Yen Family posterThe Yen FamilyMovie · 1988 · 113mDuring Japan's economic bubble, this quirky family comedy follows their everyday struggles to save money, blending humor with gentle irony and satire.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.9
  60. 460A Long Walk posterA Long WalkMovie · 2006 · 136mA retired school principal, grieving the loss of his wife to alcoholism, moves to a small town and takes up residence in an old apartment. There, he develops a relationship with a young girl who is often overlooked by her family.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0
  61. 461Bare Essence of Life posterBare Essence of LifeMovie · 2009 · 120mYojin, a quirky young farmer, experiences his first love when he meets Machiko. She's a kindergarten teacher from Tokyo.IMDb 5.9TMDB 6.0
  62. 462Games posterGamesMovie · 1971 · 90mSixteen-year-old Hana works in a factory to cover her father's debt. Determined to become a hostess, a young man approaches her with kindness and gentle manners. (Also known as "Play" in English.)IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.0
  63. 463Whisper of the Heart posterWhisper of the HeartMovie · 1995 · 111m · Animation, Drama, FamilyShizuku, a young girl who loves stories and writing, lives a quiet life filled with the adventures of fictional characters. Her world shifts when she discovers that all the books she's borrowed from the library were previously read by the same person: Seiji Amasawa. This discovery sparks her curiosity and sets her on an unexpected journey to learn about him. The story shows how these ordinary lives become connected through a shared love of stories and words. The film gently explores themes of connection, ambition, and how literature can change us, prompting viewers to think about their own relationship with reading. With a gentle tone and beautiful visuals, the film reminds us that life holds unexpected moments of beauty and chance encounters.Stream onHBO MaxHBO Max Amazon ChannelXumo PlayIMDb 7.8TMDB 8.0
  64. 464Red Peony Gambler posterRed Peony GamblerMovie · 1968 · 98mOrphaned at a young age and raised by his gambler father in Kumamoto, Kyushu, Ryuko's world is shattered when her father is murdered by a stranger. At eighteen, she breaks ties with her yakuza family and journeys across the country seeking revenge, armed only with the wallet left by the killer. Five years later, known as the defiant and courageous "Red Peony Oryu" – marked by a red peony tattoo – she encounters Katagiri, a fellow gambler; Kumatora, a family boss in Shikoku; and Otaka, the female boss of the Doman Family in Osaka. With their assistance, she finally confronts the man responsible for her father's death.Stream onMUBIMUBI Amazon ChannelHooplaIMDb 6.9TMDB 7.4
  65. 465Confessions posterConfessionsMovie · 2010 · 107m · Drama, Thriller, MysteryFollowing the tragic death of her four-year-old daughter, a middle school teacher is deeply grieving. She becomes increasingly disturbed as she realizes her students are not the children she believed them to be.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6
  66. 466The Inugami Family posterThe Inugami FamilyMovie · 1976 · 146m · Horror, MysteryA wealthy man's will unexpectedly names Tamayo, a complete stranger, as the sole heir to his fortune. The condition? She must marry one of his two estranged grandsons to receive it. This forces the family into conflict, revealing hidden rivalries and loyalties. As the grandsons compete for Tamayo's affection, they grapple with complicated feelings and shifting alliances in a poignant fight to rebuild their family and embrace their futures.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9
  67. 467Rage posterRageMovie · 2016 · 142m · Mystery, Drama, ThrillerA man brutally murders a married couple, writing the word "ikari" ("rage") in their blood. He then undergoes plastic surgery and escapes. Later, three different people in Japan notice the same mysterious stranger, leading to suspicion that he may be the killer.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8
  68. 468Dr. Akagi posterDr. AkagiMovie · 1998 · 128mFollowing World War II, Japanese physician Akagi works within a prisoner-of-war camp to find a cure for hepatitis.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.4
  69. 469The Girl Who Leapt Through Time posterThe Girl Who Leapt Through TimeMovie · 1983 · 104mKazuko Yoshiyama, a third-year junior high student, is cleaning the lab one day when she smells lavender and loses consciousness. Afterward, she discovers she has the ability to travel through time.Stream onEternal FamilyNight Flight PlusHooplaIMDb 6.5TMDB 6.7
  70. 470The Goofball posterThe GoofballMovie · 1998 · 91mHisashi loses his temp job because he's too impulsive. He meets Chikako, a housewife who frequently shoplifts at the supermarket where he works. He unexpectedly agrees to help her find her missing son, Masaru. However, Masaru begins following Hisashi instead of returning home after being found by him. Their escape from the police escalates when they steal a gun from an officer. As they run together, the two outsiders start to form a bond.IMDb 6.8
  71. 471Pom Poko posterPom PokoMovie · 1994 · 119m · Adventure, Animation, FantasyAs cities expand and destroy their natural home, a group of raccoons in Tama Hills fight to survive as housing developments and shopping malls take over. With food and shelter disappearing, they team up for an unusual journey to take back their lost territory. Along the way, they discover a hidden ability to transform. Through hard work, the raccoons learn to change their bodies and even become human, leading to funny situations. Working together, these determined animals realize that even when things look impossible, community and perseverance can help them overcome any obstacle.Stream onHBO MaxHBO Max Amazon ChannelAmazon VideoIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2
  72. 472Assault! Jack the Ripper posterAssault! Jack the RipperMovie · 1976 · 71mTwo restaurant workers embark on a series of murders after accidentally killing a hitchhiker, discovering that killing and mutilating people is mutually arousing.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.2
  73. 473Journey Into Solitude posterJourney Into SolitudeMovie · 1972 · 90mFeeling stifled by school, a 16-year-old girl runs away to travel the Pacific coast. While visiting a theater group, she becomes ill and is found by a fisherman who rescues her.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5
  74. 474The Beast to Die posterThe Beast to DieMovie · 1980 · 118m · Action, Crime, ThrillerA veteran detective investigates a series of murders linked by a killer who walks with a distinctive, unsettling gait. As the investigation progresses, he teams up with Date, a Vietnam veteran and former journalist deeply affected by his wartime experiences. Haunted by his past, Date becomes a complex and helpful partner to the detective as they try to understand the killer's motives. This psychological drama explores themes of morality, strength, and how trauma shapes a person, raising questions about justice and finding redemption.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.2
  75. 475Our Homeland posterOur HomelandMovie · 2012 · 100mBetween the late 1950s and the 1970s, over 90,000 ethnic Koreans in Japan emigrated to North Korea seeking opportunity, fairness, and an escape from discrimination. KAZOKU NO KUNI follows one of them during a brief return visit. After 25 years, Sonho reunites with his family in Tokyo for surgery. The film centers on his younger sister Rie, who is portrayed as the director’s own persona. Director Yang Yonghi previously documented her personal experience – witnessing her three older brothers leave for Pyongyang at age six – in her documentaries DEAR PYONGYANG and SONA, THE OTHER MYSELF.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.0
  76. 476To the Bracken Fields posterTo the Bracken FieldsMovie · 2003 · 124mIn a remote village in the Tohoku region, a tradition dictates that villagers must relocate to a distant place called Warabino upon reaching the age of sixty.IMDb 7.9TMDB 9.0
  77. 477Lost Chapter of Snow: Passion posterLost Chapter of Snow: PassionMovie · 1985 · 100mIori escapes a life of domestic servitude after being taken from an orphanage. She finds a new family with two young men who adopt and raise her. A decade later, Iori encounters her former step-sister, who is subsequently poisoned. Because of this, Iori becomes the main suspect in her death.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6
  78. 478A Chorus of Angels posterA Chorus of AngelsMovie · 2012 · 122mTeacher Kawashima Haru accepts a teaching post on a secluded island off Hokkaido, where she oversees six students. An accident later compels her to leave. Two decades later, Haru discovers that one of her former students has committed a crime, prompting her return to the island.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7
  79. 479The Kirishima Thing posterThe Kirishima ThingMovie · 2012 · 103m · DramaThe film follows the disappearance of Kirishima, a popular volleyball player, and the ripple effect his absence creates throughout the entire school community.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9
  80. 480Urusei Yatsura: Beautiful Dreamer posterUrusei Yatsura: Beautiful DreamerMovie · 1984 · 95mAtaru and his friends are excited for the Tomobiki High School carnival, but they soon discover something strange: time is looping. They keep reliving the same day, and no matter what they try, they can't escape the cycle.Stream onHiDiveAmazon VideoIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3
  81. 481Seisaku's Wife posterSeisaku's WifeMovie · 1965 · 94mIn early 1900s Japan, as war with Russia looms, young Okane marries a wealthy older man to escape poverty.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.3
  82. 482Dreams for Sale posterDreams for SaleMovie · 2012 · 137mFollowing a devastating fire that destroys their restaurant, a husband and wife devise an unorthodox scheme to recover their lost money. Their plan involves marrying the husband to a string of lonely women and subsequently defrauding them.IMDb 6.6TMDB 7.1
  83. 483Rape! 13th Hour posterRape! 13th HourMovie · 1977 · 73mA serial rapist takes a young apprentice, but his carefully constructed world begins to unravel when a vengeful gang of gay men hunts him down after he attacked their leader.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.6
  84. 484Sakuya: The Slayer of Demons posterSakuya: The Slayer of DemonsMovie · 2000 · 88mIn 1707, the eruption of Mount Fuji unleashes demons from beneath the earth. Sakuya, whose father was killed fighting these creatures, takes on a mission to defeat them at the mountain's source. She is joined by two seasoned warriors who served her father, and Tarō, a young kappa she considers her adopted brother. During their journey, the warriors question Tarō’s allegiance, while the kappa must choose between his own kind and the humans who have raised him.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.9
  85. 485Every Day a Good Day posterEvery Day a Good DayMovie · 2018 · 100m · DramaA university student joins her cousin for a Japanese tea ceremony near home. It becomes a deeply meaningful experience for her, a source of comfort and reflection during both difficult and joyful times.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.3
  86. 486Robot Contest posterRobot ContestMovie · 2003 · 122mSatomi is struggling in school and needs more credits to graduate. Her instructor suggests joining the Robot Club, which is competing in a single-elimination robot contest. Satomi and the club members then work to improve their skills and advance in the competition.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.4
  87. 487Violent Panic: The Big Crash posterViolent Panic: The Big CrashMovie · 1976 · 85mBank robber Takashi plans his ultimate heist and escape to Brazil. However, his plans are complicated by a woman who loves him, his deceased partner's brother, a corrupt police officer, a motorcycle gang, and the entire police force of the Kanto region.Stream onFilm Movement PlusHooplaTubi TVIMDb 7.0TMDB 5.4
  88. 488The Boy and the Heron posterThe Boy and the HeronMovie · 2023 · 124m · Animation, Adventure, FantasyDuring World War II, the teenage Mahito, grieving his mother's death, moves from Tokyo to the peaceful countryside to live with his new stepmother, Natsuko, who looks remarkably like his mother. As he struggles to adapt, Mahito finds himself in an increasingly bizarre environment, plagued by a recurring gray heron that both confuses and troubles him, and which calls him the "long-awaited one."Stream onHBO MaxHBO Max Amazon ChannelAmazon VideoIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4
  89. 489Rikyu posterRikyuMovie · 1989 · 135m · DramaSet in 16th-century Japan, the film follows the developing relationship between an aging tea master and a young, driven Shogun. The tea master shares his deep knowledge of tea with Hideyoshi, the ambitious future warlord. This unusual mentorship teaches Hideyoshi patience, discipline, and inner strength – qualities that will define him as Japan's most powerful leader and help unify the country. The movie explores the connection between traditional Japanese culture and the rise of a military figure, presenting a compelling mix of historical drama and the philosophical meaning behind the tea ceremony.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.5
  90. 490After the Rain posterAfter the RainMovie · 2000 · 91m · DramaHeavy rains cause a river to flood, trapping a group of travelers in a remote country inn. As the storm persists, tensions begin to escalate among those confined within.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3
  91. 491MARKS posterMARKSMovie · 1995 · 138mAssistant police inspector Aida investigates the murder of a former gang member. Days later, when a justice ministry official is killed in a similar way, she begins to suspect a larger conspiracy.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.0
  92. 492Nana posterNanaMovie · 2005 · 113m · Romance, Drama, MusicTwo women named Nana meet on a train traveling to Tokyo. Nana K. wants to find her boyfriend, while Nana O. hopes to succeed in the music industry. Though different, they quickly connect and decide to become roommates.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7
  93. 493Small, Slow But Steady posterSmall, Slow But SteadyMovie · 2022 · 99m · DramaDuring the pandemic, a hearing-impaired woman pursuing a career in boxing faces the potential closure of her club and the declining health of its elderly president – her most ardent supporter – testing her resolve.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.0
  94. 494Boxer posterBoxerMovie · 1977 · 94mDuring a fight, Hayato, a successful boxer, decides he's finished with the sport. He forfeits the match and quits boxing altogether, choosing to live alone with his dog, leaving his wife behind. One day, a young, less-than-talented boxer seeks him out, hoping to become Hayato's apprentice.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.8
  95. 495Affair in the Snow posterAffair in the SnowMovie · 1968 · 97mAt a remote mountain retreat, a woman finds herself caught in a romantic conflict between her passionate current lover and her former boyfriend, with whom she once shared only friendship.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6
  96. 496Anime Supremacy! posterAnime Supremacy!Movie · 2022 · 129mHitomi Saito, who has steadily advanced her career, is on the verge of directing her first anime series. Meanwhile, acclaimed director Chiharu Oji is poised for a return to prominence after a nearly ten-year absence.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.4
  97. 49769 poster69Movie · 2004 · 114mTo impress a girl, high school students Ken and Adama create a large-scale project: a festival featuring film, theater, and rock music. Their ambitious undertaking quickly gains attention, drawing the interest of television news, newspapers, and eventually, the police, turning their teenage endeavor into a full-blown adventure.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.2
  98. 498The Sea and Poison posterThe Sea and PoisonMovie · 1986 · 123mDuring the war, two interns and a nurse are questioned by American military police about their role in a horrific event: the vivisection of a crashed American air crew.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9
  99. 499Big Joys, Small Sorrows posterBig Joys, Small SorrowsMovie · 1986 · 129mA lighthouse keeper and his family move from town to town for work. With each new location, they build new friendships and are visited by the lighthouse keeper's difficult father.Stream onCriterion ChannelIMDb 6.2TMDB 6.0
  100. 500Beyond Outrage posterBeyond OutrageMovie · 2012 · 112m · Action, CrimeWhen the police aggressively target organized crime, a major conflict erupts between the Sanno and Hanabishi yakuza clans. This internal power struggle from *Outrage* has escalated into a full-blown war across the country in *Outrage Beyond*.Stream onAmazon Prime VideoWarriors and Gangsters Amazon ChannelMagnolia Selects Amazon ChannelIMDb 6.7TMDB 7.0