999 Essential Japanese Films Collection
998 titles
- 701
Japanese Summer: Double SuicideMovie · 1967 · 99mA woman with a strong sexual appetite, a man contemplating suicide she encounters, and an aspiring gangster with a penchant for weapons find themselves confined to a hidden underground location.Stream onIMDb 6.7TMDB 5.4
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BreakableMovie · 1994 · 70mA magazine editor's life becomes complicated by a relationship with his girlfriend and a growing entanglement with his younger sister. - 703
Moonlight SerenadeMovie · 1997 · 117mFollowing the 1995 Kobe earthquake, a writer reflects on a past family trip to bury his brother after World War II.Stream onIMDb 6.6TMDB 5.4
- 704
Oh, My Son!Movie · 1979 · 130mGrief-stricken after his son's murder, a father becomes a passionate advocate for legislative change. He dedicates himself to establishing laws that would provide financial support and security for families who have lost loved ones to violence.Stream onIMDb 6.7TMDB 5.6
- 705
Supermarket WomanMovie · 1996 · 127mA supermarket manager in a declining Japanese neighborhood unexpectedly reconnects with a former classmate. The classmate offers a wealth of suggestions for breathing new life into the struggling store.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 6.6
- 706
WhiteoutMovie · 2000 · 129mTerrorists seize control of Japan's largest dam, taking workers hostage and demanding a $5 billion yen ransom within 24 hours. A blizzard cuts off all access to the area, trapping everyone inside. Fortunately for the hostages, the terrorists haven't captured Togashi, the dam's controller, and he's their only hope for a rescue.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.9 - 707
Battles Without Honor and Humanity: Final EpisodeMovie · 1974 · 100m · Action, Drama, CrimeA tense crime thriller follows Hirono, imprisoned as his rival Takeda builds his criminal empire into a legitimate political party. Ambitious leaders within the new organization fiercely compete for control. As tensions escalate and allegiances shift, the film explores the complex relationship between politics and crime. It's a fast-paced story about ambition, deception, and the corrupting nature of power, designed to keep audiences captivated.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2
- 708
Godzilla, Mothra and King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out AttackMovie · 2001 · 105m · Action, Adventure, HorrorAfter a US submarine is destroyed, the events spark concern for Admiral Tachibana, who thought Godzilla was a thing of the past. His estranged daughter Yuri investigates the legend of guardian monsters. These creatures must emerge to defend Japan from Godzilla, driven by vengeful spirits seeking to destroy the country and its people as retribution for the suffering inflicted during the Pacific War.Stream onIMDb 7.0TMDB 7.5
- 709
Rainy DogMovie · 1997 · 95m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerA highly skilled Japanese assassin is unexpectedly stranded in Taiwan. To survive, he takes on jobs for a powerful local crime boss. During a mission, he encounters a woman from his past who has a son – a son who is his own. The assassin must now confront his past, accept new responsibilities as a father, and navigate the dangerous world of organized crime while forming a relationship with his son. This drama explores themes of redemption, fatherhood, and self-discovery in a perilous foreign setting.Stream onIMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8
- 710
Lonely HeartMovie · 1985 · 112mHiroki, a lonely high school student longing for love, begins pursuing a girl. Then, a mysterious new girl enters his life. He struggles to determine if she's a product of his imagination or truly exists.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0 - 711
A Woman Called Sada AbeMovie · 1975 · 76mSada Abe, a young woman from a wealthy family, is exiled after being raped and losing her virginity. She becomes a geisha and encounters Kichizo, a sophisticated restaurant owner who is captivated by her. They share an intense week of passionate encounters, and their mutual obsession escalates into a shocking crime that becomes a major news story. Inspired by a true event from 1936.Stream onIMDb 6.1TMDB 5.5
- 712
IrezumiMovie · 1982 · 102mTo please her lover's obsession with tattooed women, Akane undergoes extensive body modifications by Kyogoro, a skilled artisan. Kyogoro employs a unique method, with his assistant Harutsune distracting the client from the pain. Following the tattooing, Harutsune uncovers the surprising secret behind Kyogoro’s technique.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.3 - 713
Where Spring Comes LateMovie · 1970 · 106mSet in 1970, during Japan's first World Exposition, the film follows a miner who loses his job when his mine closes. He makes the decision to relocate his entire family to Hokkaido in northern Japan, where they begin a new life as farmers.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6 - 714
A Thousand and One NightsMovie · 1969 · 128m · Animation, Drama, FantasySet in the Middle East, the film follows Aldin, a nomadic water carrier who journeys in search of love, wealth, and power. His travels take him through diverse lands, where he experiences both beautiful and difficult events that challenge him.
The movie immerses viewers in a vibrant world, exploring ambition, sacrifice, and the search for happiness. Aldin's experiences invite us to consider the complexities of human desires and the impact of our decisions.
This moving story explores love, ambition, and power through the eyes of a simple water vendor. With its powerful storytelling and beautiful visuals, the film reminds us of life’s uncertainties and the strength of the human spirit.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.7 - 715
UnlovedMovie · 2001 · 117mMitsuko, a woman in her thirties, leads a quiet, unexciting life. She begins an affair with Eiji, a wealthy and recently divorced businessman who is drawn to her reserved nature. However, the affair ends when he pressures her to alter her way of life. As Eiji reflects on the breakup, Mitsuko finds herself drawn to a fellow neighbor who shares her laid-back outlook. But her new love is captivated by Eiji's power and status, creating a love triangle where someone will be left without affection.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 7.0
- 716
Pecoross' Mother and Her DaysMovie · 2013 · 113mYuichi, a relaxed baby boomer, works as a manga artist and singer-songwriter while balancing a day job and caring for his aging mother, Mitsue. Since her husband's death, Mitsue's dementia brings both humor and challenges for Yuichi and his son, leading them to consider a nursing home. The film flashes back to show Mitsue's experiences throughout the latter half of the 20th century: growing up in a large family, surviving wartime, and supporting her alcoholic husband. "Pecoross" is directed by Azuma Morisaki, Japan's oldest active film director, who presents a surprisingly profound and uplifting story through its whimsical depiction.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.7 - 717
Hula GirlsMovie · 2006 · 120m · Comedy, Drama, FamilyIn a small Japanese town, a group of young women hopes to revitalize their community by creating a Hawaiian-themed tourist destination.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8
- 718
Wilderness: Part 2Movie · 2017 · 147mIn 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 7.1TMDB 6.4 - 719
The Great White TowerMovie · 1966 · 150mThe film follows two doctors, Goro Zaizen and Shuji Satomi, who are former classmates and now colleagues at Naniwa University Hospital in Osaka. Goro, a highly skilled and driven surgeon, is determined to climb the ranks and achieve power. Shuji, meanwhile, focuses on his patients and research with a more approachable demeanor.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.7 - 720
The Matsugane Potshot AffairMovie · 2007 · 112mThe discovery of a gold ingot and a severed human head in a quiet town sparks a bizarre investigation, shifting between moments of profound sadness and unsettling dark humor as authorities try to unravel the mystery.Stream onIMDb 6.0TMDB 4.8
- 721
The Blood of WolvesMovie · 2018 · 126m · Crime, Thriller, DramaIn 1988 Hiroshima, Japan, before the anti-organized crime law was enacted, Detective Shogo Ogami is rumored to have connections to the yakuza. He's partnered with Detective Shuichi Hioka and they investigate a missing person case involving a financial company employee. As the investigation progresses, tensions escalate between rival yakuza factions.Stream onIMDb 7.0TMDB 7.2
- 722
A Hardest Night!!Movie · 2005 · 110mThis film explores the traditional Japanese art of rakugo, a form of comic storytelling. The narrative unfolds alongside scenes of funerals and wakes, interwoven with songs, dances, and frequently very bawdy humor.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.2
- 723
The City of Lost SoulsMovie · 2000 · 102m · Action, Crime, DramaBrazilian-Japanese gangster Mario helps his Chinese girlfriend Kei avoid deportation from Japan. They flee to Tokyo's vibrant Japanese-Portuguese neighborhood, seeking a way out of the country with a Russian mobster. To earn the mobster's favor, they plan a heist: intercepting a major drug deal between the Chinese Mafia and the Yakuza.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.1 - 724
FaceMovie · 2000 · 123mMasako is socially awkward and keeps to herself. Overwhelmed by years of suppressed humiliation and anger, she kills her sister in an explosion. Afterward, she becomes a fugitive.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6 - 725
MonsterMovie · 2023 · 125m · Mystery, Thriller, DramaFollowing an incident at school concerning her son, a worried single mother seeks explanations, leading to growing doubt and emotional distress.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.9
- 726
Nagasaki: Memories of My SonMovie · 2015 · 130mIn Nagasaki, Japan, Nobuko is a midwife still grieving the loss of her son, who died in the atomic bombing three years prior. On August 9, 1948, Koji, her son, unexpectedly reappears. He continues to visit her, and they share memories of happier times. These moments of joy, though strange, feel like they will never end.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.6 - 727
RollingMovie · 2015 · 93mKanichi is employed at a wet tissue company in Mito, Japan, where he encounters Gondo. Ten years prior, Gondo was dismissed from his teaching position for secretly filming people. He is currently with Mihari, who works as a hostess, and has relocated her from Tokyo. Kanichi is immediately drawn to Mihari and intervenes, taking her away from Gondo. However, an unforeseen complication arises due to a female student appearing in the video Gondo secretly recorded.IMDb 5.6TMDB 4.9 - 728
HaruMovie · 1996 · 118mA young businessman in Tokyo finds connection with another member of an online movie forum through their email exchanges, forging a unique bond.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.9 - 729
TekkonkinkreetMovie · 2006 · 103m · Action, Adventure, AnimationBlack and White, two orphaned children, fight to survive in the harsh streets of Treasure Town. Their lives are upended when a powerful corporation plans to demolish the town for a new amusement park, forcing them into a desperate struggle for their home.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4
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The Nineteen-Year-Old's MapMovie · 1979 · 110mA 19-year-old newspaper delivery boy starts documenting his dislike of his neighbors, keeping a detailed journal explaining his grievances. Identifying as a "right-winger," he escalates his feelings by making bomb threats against the families he targets, initiating a campaign of psychological terror within his neighborhood.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.9 - 731
Asian Beat: I Love NipponMovie · 1991 · 104m"Asian Beat" is a collection of films by emerging directors from six Asian countries, featuring Masatoshi Nagase as the central character, TOKIO. TOKIO's life becomes complicated when he encounters Banana, a Filipino woman who is a terrorist with vital, top-secret information that could destabilize Japan. The film follows TOKIO's involvement in a series of events leading to his flight from the country.IMDb 5.3TMDB 9.5 - 732
Hijacked Youth – Dare To Stop Us 2Movie · 2024 · 118mNagoya, 1983: Renowned filmmaker Koji Wakamatsu opens a cinema, primarily to screen his own work. The Cinema Skhole quickly becomes a gathering place for local film lovers. Junichi Inoue offers a sympathetic and largely accurate account of these movie enthusiasts in this loosely connected story to Kazuya Shiraishi’s DARE TO STOP US.IMDb 6.8TMDB 9.0 - 733
Confessions of a DogMovie · 2006 · 195mTakeda is an honest police officer, a father and husband, but his promotion to detective pulls him into a world of corruption, blackmail, and shady dealings at the highest levels of the police force. At the same time, independent investigator Kusama must decide whether to expose damaging information he has about the police, potentially shattering the foundations of law enforcement in Japan.IMDb 7.3TMDB 5.7 - 734
Blood and BonesMovie · 2004 · 144m · DramaIn 1923, Kim Shun-Pei, a teenager, relocates from Cheju Island, South Korea, to Osaka, Japan. Over time, he transforms into a cruel, greedy, and violent man, establishing a kamaboko factory – a processed seafood business – in his impoverished Korean-Japanese community, where he exploits his workers.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5 - 735
Horus: Prince of the SunMovie · 1968 · 82m · Adventure, Drama, AnimationIn ancient Scandinavia, a young man named Horus embarks on a quest when the Sword of the Sun, a symbol of his people's heritage, is stolen. He must overcome a giant rock creature guarding the path to retrieve it. After outsmarting the giant, Horus receives a prophecy: he must travel to his ancestors' homeland, facing dangerous landscapes and dark challenges. Along the way, he meets Hilda, a mysterious woman who becomes his companion. Their journey intertwines romance with mythology as Horus learns to accept his destiny and the hidden wonders of his world.Stream onIMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3
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Village of DreamsMovie · 1996 · 112mThis film explores the childhood of twin boys growing up in a Japanese village after World War II. It follows their relationships with their schoolteacher mother, their father who works as a civil servant, an elderly landlord, a challenging new classmate, and three enigmatic figures who appear as old women.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 5.9
- 737
The Choice of HerculesMovie · 2002 · 130mIn 1972, when Japanese Red Army radicals took a woman hostage in the resort town of Karuizawa, Nagano, Officer Atsuyuki Sassa was tasked with resolving the crisis. Sassa faced a difficult situation from the start: harsh winter conditions in the mountains, disagreements between Tokyo and local police, and public pressure to gain access to the lodge where the hostage was being held.IMDb 6.1TMDB 8.0 - 738
Takeshi: Childhood DaysMovie · 1990 · 119mThis is a story about growing up in wartime Japan. Takeshi, a bright boy from a fishing family, is the schoolyard bully. When his cousin joins their family to escape air raids, Takeshi initially welcomes him, but soon starts bullying him as well. Ultimately, Takeshi's dominance is challenged and he loses his position of power.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.5 - 739
The Woodsman and the RainMovie · 2012 · 129mA widower living as a lumberjack finds his quiet life disrupted when a film crew making a zombie movie needs his assistance. The crew gradually becomes more dependent on him.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.0 - 740
Ichi the KillerMovie · 2001 · 129m · Action, Crime, HorrorYakuza enforcer Kakihara searches for his missing boss and encounters Ichi, a deeply repressed and dangerously disturbed killer. Ichi possesses a capacity for inflicting pain that intrigues Kakihara, offering a path to the brutal satisfaction he craves.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 7.0
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Female Prisoner #701: ScorpionMovie · 1972 · 87m · Crime, Thriller, ActionMatsushima's life changes dramatically when she becomes involved with Sugimi, a detective working with the mafia. Driven by love and betrayal, Matsushima seeks revenge on those who hurt her. Her pursuit of justice leads her through dangerous criminal circles and complicated alliances. As she uncovers layers of deception, she struggles to trust anyone, resulting in a suspenseful game of cat and mouse where her desire for vengeance is pushed to the breaking point.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0
- 742
A Dedicated LifeMovie · 1994 · 157mThis film chronicles the final years of Mitsuharu Inoue, a novelist whose work sparked considerable debate.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 5.2
- 743
Two in the ShadowMovie · 1967 · 108m · Romance, DramaA man's life changes drastically after a fatal car accident, even though he wasn't at fault. His company transfers him to a remote branch in a close-knit town. As he prepares to leave his old life, he meets the widow of the victim and offers her a large sum of money. This act inspires the widow to reconnect with her past and return to her hometown, seeking healing and a fresh start in the new community.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6
- 744
AntarcticaMovie · 1983 · 143m · Drama, AdventureIn Antarctica's icy expanse, two Japanese researchers undertake a pioneering expedition to study climate change and its impact on the environment. Navigating the snowy landscape with their sled dogs – essential for transporting equipment – they face extreme conditions.
As weeks pass, a strong bond develops between the scientists and their dogs. Overcoming initial hesitation, the resilient animals become trusted companions, sharing in the mission's challenges and successes.
Through this shared experience, the researchers gain insight into the dogs' instincts, loyalty, and strength, revealing the profound connection between humans and animals in a harsh environment. The story underscores the importance of scientific research and the power of empathy in the face of nature's challenges.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.2 - 745
13 AssassinsMovie · 2010 · 141m · Adventure, Drama, ActionIn the final years of Japan's feudal period, a band of jobless samurai are recruited for a dangerous mission: to defeat a cruel lord and stop him from seizing power, potentially leading the nation into widespread conflict.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3
- 746
DoppelgangerMovie · 2003 · 107m · Comedy, Science Fiction, ThrillerA Japanese engineer, close to a major medical advancement, learns about a woman whose brother died by suicide after encountering his double. Soon after, the engineer himself is confronted by his own doppelgänger.Stream onIMDb 6.3TMDB 7.0
- 747
Oh, My Buddha!Movie · 2009 · 114m"Oh My Buddha," based on Jun Miura's semi-autobiographical novel, is a quintessential summer coming-of-age story steeped in 1970s folk culture and teenage yearning. The film follows a first-year student at an all-boys Buddhist school who feels stifled by his predictable life. He dreams of the creative freedom embodied by his idol, Bob Dylan, and spends his time emulating the singer's style. His world shifts when he's invited on a liberating island trip with a like-minded friend.Stream onIMDb 6.5TMDB 6.0
- 748
The Real ThingMovie · 2020 · 232mKazumichi Tsuji is a disaffected office worker entangled in complicated relationships with two colleagues. His life takes a turn when he encounters the captivating Ukiyo Hayama at a convenience store. Unfortunately, Ukiyo's presence in his life quickly unravels his world, bringing unforeseen problems.Stream onIMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6
- 749
Darkness in the LightMovie · 2001 · 119mIn the summer of 1994, a middle-aged salaryman with an ordinary family lives a quiet life in a small city in Nagano Prefecture. He wakes up one morning to discover he's been identified as the prime suspect in the decade's most shocking mass murder.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.8 - 750
Band of NinjaMovie · 1967 · 120mIn 16th century Japan, the son of a murdered feudal lord seeks revenge. He encounters Kagemaru, a rogue ninja aiding peasants in their rebellion against Oda Nobunaga. The story is presented using a unique filmmaking style, adapting pages from the original manga into a sound-driven visual experience.IMDb 5.8TMDB 4.6 - 751
SabuMovie · 2002 · 122mWrongfully imprisoned in a workhouse, a young man's only hope lies with his friend back home, who must uncover proof of his innocence.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.5 - 752
Gojoe: Spirit War ChronicleMovie · 2001 · 138m · Action, HistoryBenkei, a skilled warrior who once killed for a living, had vowed to never take another life after becoming a Buddhist. His belief in peace is challenged when a group of ruthless fighters, known as the Demons, begin a campaign of violence. Faced with their brutality, Benkei abandons his pacifism and returns to his sword, determined to stop them.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.8 - 753
A ManMovie · 2022 · 121m · Drama, Thriller, MysteryAkira is a lawyer. He reconnects with Rie, a former client, who requests that he investigate her deceased husband, Daisuke.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.0 - 754
Gonin 2Movie · 1996 · 108mFive women steal one billion yen worth of jewelry from the yakuza. Construction manager Toyama, fueled by vengeance for the rape of his wife and her subsequent death at the hands of the mob, is also pursuing them. Soon, the yakuza and Toyama converge on the women's secret hideout.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.8 - 755
The Sky CrawlersMovie · 2008 · 121m · Animation, Action, AdventureThe Kildren are young people who live forever as teenagers. Aware that each day could be their last, they fight a war – a conflict staged and controlled by adults for their amusement. However, accepting their fate, they make the most of every day.Stream onIMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7
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Profound Desires of the GodsMovie · 1968 · 173m · DramaIn Tokyo, engineer Kariya journeys to a remote tropical island, a world away from modern life, where he meets the native Futori clan. He joins them in a project to drill a well for a sugar mill, hoping to improve their lives. The story explores the challenges and connections that arise as these two cultures work together, revealing the complexities of adapting to new environments and understanding each other.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3
- 757
InochiMovie · 2002 · 111mYu Miri, a writer, becomes pregnant by her married lover and chooses to raise the child on her own. Her former boyfriend, Yutaka, then offers to help with the baby's upbringing.IMDb 6.9TMDB 3.8 - 758
What Is Love?Movie · 2019 · 123mTeruko, a 28-year-old office worker, instantly fell in love with Mamoru five months ago. Since then, she's neglected her job and drifted apart from her friends. She subsequently loses her job, and her friends become distant. However, Teruko remains content as long as she's with Mamoru. Meanwhile, Mamoru views Teruko as someone he doesn't need to love. Teruko's unrequited feelings for him intensify.IMDb 6.4TMDB 7.0 - 759
Mermaid LegendMovie · 1984 · 110mA married couple who dive for abalone must face powerful investors who are seizing control of their coastal home.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.3
- 760
Wet Sand in AugustMovie · 1971 · 91mA group of high school friends make the most of their last summer together, enjoying carefree days of intimacy and relaxation. But their idyllic time is drawing to a close.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.3 - 761
AmikoMovie · 2022 · 104mAmiko is different from the other kids, and her restless energy often makes her feel like an outsider. At school, she struggles to fit in, and at home, her behavior causes problems. When a sudden family tragedy shatters her peaceful life by the sea, Amiko's loneliness deepens. However, she continues to reach out to others, inviting them into her world.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.7 - 762
Funeral Parade of RosesMovie · 1969 · 105m · DramaIn 1960s Tokyo, Gonda’s bar offers refuge to people from diverse LGBTQ+ communities, creating a space for unity and self-expression despite societal disapproval. Gonda’s life is closely tied to Leda, the bar’s madam and his romantic partner. The arrival of Eddie, a young and passionate person, intensifies Gonda’s emotional connection with both Leda and Eddie, revealing hidden tensions and complexities in their pasts that threaten their relationships. This drama explores love, jealousy, and self-discovery against the backdrop of societal shifts, offering a vivid look at a pivotal time for Tokyo and the global LGBTQ+ community.Stream onIMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5
- 763
I WishMovie · 2011 · 127m · DramaAfter his parents' divorce separates him from his brother Ryunosuke, twelve-year-old Koichi hears a rumor: when two new bullet trains pass each other at high speed, a wish will come true.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3
- 764
Secret Chronicle: She Beast MarketMovie · 1974 · 83mIn 1970s Osaka, a determined young woman working as a prostitute struggles to keep her family afloat. She cares for her mentally disabled brother and her aging mother, who also works as a prostitute. They fight to survive together.Stream onIMDb 6.4TMDB 6.3
- 765
Battles Without Honor and HumanityMovie · 1973 · 99m · Drama, CrimeIn post-war Japan, the yakuza clans fight for control in a dangerous underworld. Shozo Hirono, a young man, becomes caught in their web of alliances and rivalries while navigating the black markets with his friends. The film explores the dark side of Japanese society, where betrayal is common and survival depends on adapting to shifting power struggles. Set against a backdrop of war-torn landscapes, it depicts deceit, violence, and loyalty within these criminal organizations, revealing their complex power dynamics and ruthless ambition. Shozo's journey highlights both human vulnerability and resilience in the face of hardship.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3
- 766
OutMovie · 2002 · 119mFeeling trapped and abused, pregnant lunchbox factory worker Yayoi kills her violent husband and dismembers his body. She then connects with three other housewives, each also desperate and facing abusive husbands. Together, they murder their spouses and devise elaborate plans to conceal their crimes.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.3 - 767
Tora-san's RunawayMovie · 1970 · 88mFollowing a meeting with the dying son of a yakuza boss and encouraged by the son's sister, Sakura, Torajiro decides to leave his wandering life behind and find stable employment as an honest worker.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.8 - 768
For BusinessMovie · 1986 · 109mDuring the late 1980s economic boom, two television employees remain dedicated to their jobs as they compete against a rival talent agency.IMDb 4.2 - 769
Bari zôgonMovie · 1996 · 114mThis drama, inspired by true events, follows the investigation into an unexplained death, which leads to the exposure of police corruption and brutality.IMDb 6.8 - 770
TomorrowMovie · 1988 · 105mSet the day before the atomic bombing of Nagasaki on August 9, 1945, this film, adapted from a story by Mitsukaru Inoue, portrays the everyday lives of its people. It explores the human stories of joy and sorrow experienced by those living with hopes for the future – a newlywed couple, an expectant mother, and lovers facing a painful farewell as one is drafted into the army. Their dreams are abruptly shattered, their lives cut short. Knowing the historical outcome deepens the emotional resonance, amplified by Teizo Matsumura's moving score. 'Ashita' is the first installment in Kazuo Kuroki's 'War Requiem Trilogy,' alongside 'Utsukushii Natsu Kirishima' (2002) and 'Chichi to Kuraseba' (2004).IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.5 - 771
G.I. SamuraiMovie · 1979 · 139m · Action, Science Fiction, WarA team of modern Japanese soldiers suddenly finds themselves transported to Japan's Warring States period. Thrust into a world of samurai and political maneuvering, they must adjust to a drastically different era. Lacking modern technology, the soldiers rely on their military skills to survive. They navigate the dangerous power struggles between rival samurai clans in feudal Japan, fighting to stay alive in this unfamiliar and hostile time.Stream onIMDb 6.3TMDB 5.9
- 772
After LifeMovie · 1999 · 118m · Fantasy, DramaOn a cold Monday, a team of counselors starts their unusual work at an old social services office. They interview the recently deceased, carefully record their life stories, and help them choose a single, important memory to keep forever.
This unusual situation explores life, death, and our need to remember special moments. As the counselors learn about their clients' lives, they face their own mortality and question what truly matters. The film is emotionally thoughtful, blending drama, humor, and reflections on life as each character struggles with the difficult choice of selecting one memory to last eternally.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.2
- 773
Let's Make the Teacher Have a Miscarriage ClubMovie · 2012 · 62mThis low-budget psychological drama, inspired by real events, centers on a group of seemingly sweet high school girls with a disturbing habit: throwing small animals. Their leader, Mizuki (Kaori Kobayashi), descends into madness when her teacher becomes pregnant. The girls then establish a "miscarriage club," intending to terminate the pregnancy as a defiant act against the authority figure.IMDb 5.4TMDB 4.3 - 774
Let Him Rest in PeaceMovie · 1985 · 103mA man goes back to his hometown by the sea to face a powerful yakuza leader. He connects with the local community, winning over young men and easing tensions with a tough woman, while also dealing out some justice along the way.IMDb 6.6TMDB 8.0 - 775
By PlayerMovie · 2000 · 126mThe film presents a collection of scenes from Taiji Tonoyama's life and excerpts from his films, combined with Nobuko Otowa speaking directly to the camera, as if addressing Tonoyama. She reflects on moments from his life. The film centers on Tonoyama's struggles with alcohol, his relationships, and his collaborations with Shindo on filmmaking.IMDb 7.1TMDB 8.0 - 776
Ringing in Their EarsMovie · 2011 · 89mYu Irie (of *8000 Miles 1 & 2*) presents a new film centered on an impending concert by a reclusive rock band, and the diverse individuals whose lives are impacted. These include managers, devoted fans, homebound people, single mothers, and kindergarten teachers. It's a heartfelt exploration of rock and roll's ability to provide healing.Stream onIMDb 5.9TMDB 5.0
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The Face of JizoMovie · 2004 · 99mInspired by a play by Hisashi Inoue, the film centers on the hardships faced by Hiroshima survivors. Set over four days in the summer of 1948, it follows Mitsué (Rié Miyama) as the ghost of her father appears. He has discovered she is in love and attempts to persuade her to embrace a new life with gentle humor. However, Mitsué firmly rejects his heartfelt encouragement, insisting, "People died in my place. I don't have the right to be happy."IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7 - 778
The Life of ChikuzanMovie · 1977 · 124mAfter more than 50 years of traveling throughout Japan, blind shamisen player and folk-song collector Takahashi Chikuzan achieved musical fame in the 1970s. This biographical drama follows his life, focusing on his early years as a peasant on a remote, arid island.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.8 - 779
Tora-san Loves an ArtistMovie · 1973 · 107mJust before his family departs for a trip to Kyushu, Tora-San returns to Shibamata. He later meets an old classmate and begins to develop feelings for his artist sister.IMDb 6.6TMDB 8.0 - 780
Will to LiveMovie · 1999 · 119mThis film updates the classic story of "The Ballad of Narayama" to modern times, changing the act of abandonment to placing a parent in an old people's home. The movie received the Golden St. George and the FIPRESCI Prize at the 21st Moscow International Film Festival.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.3 - 781
Samurai AssassinMovie · 1965 · 122m · Drama, Action, HistoryIn 1860s Japan, members of the Mito clan undertake a perilous mission, secretly approaching Edo Castle through the Sakurada Gate. Burdened by the consequences of the Ansei Purge, a devastating period in their history, they seek out Naosuke Ii of Hikone, a key figure in the Tokugawa shogunate held responsible for their suffering. Moving with caution, they navigate a tense environment where danger lurks at every turn, yet hope for revenge and justice fuels their determination. This historical drama immerses viewers in 19th-century Japan, where loyalty and honor are tested by betrayal and power struggles.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3 - 782
TampopoMovie · 1985 · 115m · ComedyTwo truck drivers discover a struggling ramen shop owned by a widow named Tampopo. Captivated by her dedication to making perfect noodle soup, they help her revitalize the business. The film playfully examines the importance of food and its effect on people's lives through humorous stories. This warm and funny tribute to cooking takes audiences on a delicious journey celebrating the pleasure of sharing good food and building connections over a meal.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8
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A Boy's Summer in 1945Movie · 2002 · 118mKazuo Kuroki, a highly regarded Japanese director, marks a new phase in his career with "A Boy's Summer in 1945" (also known as "A Beautiful Summer in Kirishima"). This beautifully crafted, character-driven drama unfolds in the Japanese countryside during the final months of World War II. The film boasts a gentle pace and skillfully weaves together a series of interconnected stories. With its strong production values, it is ideally suited for film festivals and could become a key work in retrospectives of Kuroki's films, including "Preparation of the Festival" and "Ronin-gai," a director who is well-known in Japan but has received little international recognition.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.3 - 784
The HomelessMovie · 1974 · 97mTwo inmates are simultaneously released from jail, but go their separate ways, only to cross paths again in the nearest brothel. There they make the acquaintance of a would-be prostitute. They help her escape and decide to guide her on her quest for sunken contraband somewhere off the coast.IMDb 5.7TMDB 7.5 - 785
Hoodlum SoldierMovie · 1965 · 103mA thoughtful young man who refuses to fight is compelled to serve in the Japanese army in Manchuria. He teams up with a naive ex-gangster, and together they plan to escape by hijacking a train.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3 - 786
The Voice of WaterMovie · 2014 · 127mA religious group faces disintegration when its young Korean leader begins to question the authenticity of her purported psychic abilities.Stream onIMDb 5.4TMDB 6.0
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MadadayoMovie · 1993 · 134m · Drama, ComedyThis biographical drama follows Hyakken Uchida, a celebrated Japanese author and teacher, whose life takes shape during World War II. The story begins with Uchida, a German professor, sadly resigning from his job as war approaches. Through a series of scenes, the film explores his life and his relationships with former students who now care for him in his old age. It highlights themes of intellectual passion, connections between generations, and strength in the face of hardship, portraying a man whose work in literature and education endures beyond the war.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3
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Year One in the NorthMovie · 2005 · 169mFollowing the end of the Shogunate in 1868, the new government orders residents of Awaji, near Kobe, to relocate to northern Hokkaido. These people had previously supported the displaced Samurai class. After two years, more than 500 settlers establish a life in their new land, led by Hideaki, who is married to Shino. But when crops fail, he must travel to Sapporo for five years to learn modern farming techniques, leaving his wife and daughter behind. Throughout this time, the government maintains a watchful eye, planning to forcibly remove the community from their homes once more.IMDb 6.7TMDB 4.9 - 789
Birds Without NamesMovie · 2017 · 123mA troubled young woman is obsessed with her former boyfriend, the man who once violently attacked her and then vanished without a trace.Stream onIMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3
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Circus BoysMovie · 1989 · 106mJinta and Wataru are brothers who grow up in a traveling circus. Following an accident, Jinta leaves the circus and becomes a con artist, traveling the countryside. He then gets involved with a local yakuza gang after a confrontation, and makes a mistake by falling for the boss's mistress. Wataru remains with the circus, working to restore its past success.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.5 - 791
My SO Has Got DepressionMovie · 2011 · 121mMikio is a dedicated husband and employee until he's diagnosed with depression. He's married to Haruko, who works as a comic artist but struggles to make sales and has largely depended on him for financial support. Haruko feels responsible for not recognizing Mikio’s struggles. His depression stems from intense pressure at work, where his company has been pushing him to resign. After he quits, his health improves, but their relationship shifts.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.3 - 792
Tetsuo II: Body HammerMovie · 1992 · 81m · Science Fiction, Horror, DramaAn ordinary Japanese businessman's life is shattered when his child is kidnapped by a ruthless criminal organization. As the kidnappers relentlessly torment him, he uncovers a hidden power within himself. Driven by rage and desperation to save his son, the businessman transforms into a formidable force, delivering brutal justice to those responsible. The film explores themes of family, strength, and resilience, featuring intense action sequences that will keep audiences captivated.Stream onIMDb 6.4TMDB 6.2
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Extreme Private Eros: Love Song 1974Movie · 1974 · 98mAfter his wife, Miyuki Takeda, announces she's leaving to find herself, Kazuo Hara starts a deeply personal documentary to stay connected to her and understand their complicated relationship. Hara gains surprisingly intimate access to Miyuki's life as she pursues independence. The film follows her journey of self-discovery, including exploring her sexuality, becoming a single mother, and growing disillusioned with societal expectations.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8
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Tora-san's Cherished MotherMovie · 1969 · 93mKuruma Torajiro is in Kyoto searching for someone important to him.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.3 - 795
A Tale of AfricaMovie · 1980 · 120m · DramaA pilot crash-lands in the African wilderness and wakes with amnesia. He must use his instincts to find his way back to people. In the jungle, he meets an old man and his spirited granddaughter, forming a close connection. Sharing stories, the pilot begins to remember his past, including a fiancée he thought he'd left behind. Torn between his old life and the new love he finds, he must confront his history and decide what future to embrace. This story is about identity, loss, and how people connect, set against the backdrop of the African jungle.IMDb 4.7TMDB 5.0 - 796One Step on a Mine, It's All OverMovie · 1999 · 111mThis film tells the story of Taizo Ichinose, a war photographer.IMDb 6.5TMDB 7.0
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The Cherry OrchardMovie · 1990 · 96mAt an all-girls boarding school, a group of students rehearse for a production of Anton Chekhov's "The Cherry Orchard."IMDb 7.1TMDB 3.3 - 798
Karaoke TerrorMovie · 2003 · 112mA group of middle-aged women who enjoy karaoke are targeted by a young man who murders one of them. The remaining friends pursue him, leading to a violent confrontation. Subsequently, the young man's friends seek revenge on the women, escalating the cycle of violence.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.6 - 799
HarmoniumMovie · 2016 · 120m · DramaToshio takes on Yasaka as a worker in his workshop. However, Yasaka's recent release from prison leads him to interfere in Toshio's family.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 6.5
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To Sleep So as to DreamMovie · 1986 · 81mA retired silent film star enlists a private investigator and his eccentric assistant to find her missing daughter, Bellflower. The unlikely duo follows a series of odd and cryptic clues, ultimately leading them to the kidnappers and Bellflower's whereabouts.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 6.4