51 Japanese Films from 2018
51 titles
- 1
VibratorMovie · 2003 · 94mRei, a writer struggling with inner turmoil, battles insomnia, eating disorders, and a constant barrage of voices in her head. On Valentine's Day, she encounters truck driver Takatoshi and impulsively joins him on a trip in his rickety truck. The vehicle’s jarring movements seem to mirror Rei’s own emotional instability.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.9 - 2
Flower and SwordMovie · 2017 · 127mFollowing Oda Nobunaga's death in the late 16th century, Hideyoshi Toyotomi seizes power, signaling an end to an era of war. However, his rule brings hardship to the populace. Monk Senko Ikenobo, a master of flower arrangement, seeks to inspire hope and peace through his art, forming a close friendship with Rikyu, a monk and influential politician deeply connected to chanoyu. Ultimately, Rikyu is ordered to commit ritual suicide by Hideyoshi. In response, Monk Senko Ikenobo dares to challenge Hideyoshi Toyotomi.IMDb 6.6TMDB 8.0 - 3
Enokida Trading Co.Movie · 2018 · 110mYojiro Enokida runs Enokida Trading Post, a used goods store with the motto, "Anything but garbage. We take it all." The shop becomes a meeting place for Yojiro's employees and regulars, who often bring their problems with them. When part of the store's sign breaks off one summer day, Yojiro believes it signals an extraordinary event. Soon after, the store's customers' troubles begin to manifest in strange ways.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0 - 4
Night Is Short, Walk On GirlMovie · 2017 · 93m · Comedy, Romance, AnimationA group of university students enjoy a night out, and a sophomore known as "The Girl with Black Hair" has a series of strange experiences throughout the city's nightlife. Unbeknownst to her, a senior student, "Senpai," is persistently trying to win her affection by inventing increasingly elaborate excuses to see her.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 5
Top Knot DetectiveMovie · 2017 · 90mDuring the early 1990s, a Japanese samurai detective show found a devoted following in Australia. Originally titled *Ronin Suiri Tentai* in Japan (meaning roughly "Deductive Reasoning Ronin"), it was internationally recognized as *Top Knot Detective*. The series was already a legendary, albeit disastrous, project in Japan, spearheaded by Takashi Tawagoto – a writer, producer, director, and lead actor with no discernible talent for acting, fighting, or writing.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.5 - 6
Ice Cream and the Sound of RaindropsMovie · 2018 · 74mIn March 2017, six young people are chosen for a play in a small town. They dedicate themselves to rehearsals, but the production is unexpectedly canceled. Disappointed, the group decides to continue practicing on their own. Determined to perform, they resolve to take to the stage regardless.IMDb 6.1TMDB 7.3 - 7
Love and WolbachiaMovie · 2017 · 94mOno Sayaka, making her directorial debut, directs, shoots, and edits this documentary exploring Japan's sexual minorities. The film follows a man who, initially drawn to women's fashion for style, discovers he's attracted to men. He falls deeply in love with a woman who is, in fact, a man. As the film captures intimate moments and the complexities of their relationship, it reveals the multifaceted and often confusing nature of sexuality.IMDb 5.3 - 8
Tremble All You WantMovie · 2017 · 117m · Comedy, RomanceYoshika has been in love with Ichimiya, whom she considers her soulmate, since middle school. Now a 24-year-old office worker, her intense feelings have kept her from even considering other men, until a colleague asks her on a date.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.1 - 9
Lu Over the WallMovie · 2017 · 112m · Animation, Family, FantasyIn a quiet fishing village, a withdrawn middle schooler named Kai encounters a mermaid named Lu.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.0 - 10
Danchi WomanMovie · 2018 · 66mShizu, 85 and unmarried, has lived for 30 years in a public housing complex ("Danchi"), filling her home with a lifetime of keepsakes. When the Danchi is slated for demolition, Shizu and her neighbors must relocate to smaller, newer housing – spaces too small for all of her belongings. This intimate documentary follows Shizu as she navigates saying goodbye to her home and deciding which memories to carry forward, and which ones to leave behind. It reveals her sense of humor and deep nostalgia during this poignant process.IMDb 6.6 - 11
CyclopsMovie · 2019 · 109mShinohara has been wrongly convicted and imprisoned for 14 years for his wife's murder. Upon his release, he is consumed by a desire for revenge. He teams up with a police officer haunted by the mistake of contributing to Shinohara's imprisonment, and together they pursue the real killer of his wife. - 12
One Cut of the DeadMovie · 2017 · 96m · Comedy, Horror, DramaA film crew shooting a zombie movie in a deserted warehouse discovers the location was rumored to be a site for human experimentation. Suddenly, real zombies appear and attack them.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6 - 13
Party 'Round the GlobeMovie · 2018 · 116mThe Watanabe Brothers bring their signature blend of humor and sadness to this charming road trip film. Two Beatles fans plan a journey to Tokyo to see a Paul McCartney concert.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.0 - 14
Samurai RebellionMovie · 1967 · 121m · Drama, History, ActionSet in feudal Japan, the mother of a young lord's heir is kidnapped by her husband's powerful and controlling father. This forces the husband into a difficult choice: accept the injustice or risk the anger of those in power who control his family's fate. With his father, a respected samurai, he must navigate a world of honor and loyalty to try to bring his family back together and challenge traditional societal norms. The film features stunning visuals that immerse audiences in ancient Japan, and its intricate relationships keep viewers engaged until the conclusion.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.2 - 15
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 - 16
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.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.2 - 17
Occult BolshevismMovie · 2018 · 72mThis film explores the theme of psychophobia through the visualization of a dangerous psychic experiment. The experiment is designed as a "departure" into a world of madness, with the stated goal of achieving "spiritual revolution."IMDb 5.6TMDB 6.2 - 18
The Sword of DoomMovie · 1966 · 122m · Action, DramaDuring the final years of the Japanese Shogunate, Ryunosuke is a highly skilled swordsman who expertly maneuvers the complex political scene. He kills without hesitation, driven by habit rather than morality. This detached existence begins to unravel him, threatening his sanity and forcing him to confront the impact of his violence. The story examines morality, power, and the personal price of survival in a world defined by conflict.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.7 - 19
13 AssassinsMovie · 1963 · 125m · Adventure, Drama, ActionSet in feudal Japan, this period drama follows a ruthless Daimyo whose cruel actions go unpunished due to his powerful connections. When an innocent couple is murdered and a loyal vassal protests, the Daimyo's position only strengthens. Driven by a desire to end the suffering, a group plots his assassination. Defending their seemingly invincible target is a brilliant strategist with command of a large army, forced to confront difficult choices. Meanwhile, a mastermind undertakes a suicide mission, leading 12 dedicated warriors – known as the 13 Assassins – in a desperate attempt to overcome impossible odds and bring justice to a nation on the brink of upheaval. The film is a gripping story of strategy, courage, and the conflict between right and wrong amidst Japan's turbulent political climate.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.4 - 20
MFKZMovie · 2018 · 95m · Science Fiction, Animation, ActionIn the bleak city of Dark Meat City, Angelino is just another nobody. But after a seemingly ordinary scooter accident caused by a captivating stranger, his life takes a terrifying turn. He begins to see monstrous figures lurking everywhere. Is Angelino descending into madness, or is an alien invasion unfolding unnoticed?IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.2 - 21
Oh Lucy!Movie · 2018 · 95m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceIn Tokyo, a solitary office worker with a habit of smoking seeks connection when she enrolls in English lessons. She develops feelings for her instructor, but her life is upended when he vanishes. Determined to uncover the truth, she embarks on a quest to find him.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 22
Dear EtrangerMovie · 2017 · 127mMakoto Tanaka, 40, is happily remarried to Nanae, and they share two daughters from Nanae's previous relationship. Makoto strives for a normal family life. When Nanae becomes pregnant, the family dynamic shifts unexpectedly.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.1 - 23
Of Love & LawMovie · 2017 · 95mFumi and Kazu offer a powerful perspective on love. They establish Japan's first LGBTQ+ law firm, becoming deeply involved in the lives of those seeking protection and advocacy. While their own relationship lacks legal recognition, they dedicate themselves to pro-bono work, working tirelessly and also fostering a teenager. The film introduces a diverse group of individuals – artists, dissidents, and those on the margins – including a woman facing prosecution for her provocative art and a young person struggling with identity due to their parentage. A recurring theme emphasizes the pressure to conform to traditional conservatism and suppress sexual diversity. With warmth, humor, and legal expertise, Fumi and Kazu challenge these norms.IMDb 7.4TMDB 2.7 - 24
Trace of BreathMovie · 2017 · 93mThis documentary follows Sato Teiichi as he rebuilds his life after the devastating Tohoku earthquake and tsunami that destroyed his seed shop in Rikuzentakada City. Directed, filmed, and edited by Komori Haruka in her feature film debut, the film chronicles Sato's daily efforts to rebuild everything from his home and shop – including constructing a prefab building and digging a well – to crafting his own signage. He also documents his experiences during the disaster in a diary written in self-taught English. - 25
River's EdgeMovie · 2018 · 118mHaruna, a high school student, develops a friendship with the withdrawn Yamada and becomes entangled in his complicated relationship with a beautiful model and a girl who is deeply infatuated with him.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.9 - 26
SanjuroMovie · 1962 · 96m · Drama, Action, ComedyIn Kurosawa's "Sanjuro," Toshiro Mifune is the charismatic antihero Sanjuro, moving through a world filled with lies and schemes. A sequel to "Yojimbo," the film follows Sanjuro as a seasoned samurai who encounters a group of young, idealistic warriors. They ask for his help in getting rid of the corrupt leaders of their clan and restoring peace.
As Sanjuro leads these inexperienced swordsmen, he gently challenges their strict sense of honor, playfully mocking the traditional samurai image with his unusual approach and pessimistic view of the world. The film skillfully mixes humor and serious moments against a backdrop of constant danger, creating a compelling story that questions the warriors' core beliefs.
Kurosawa's direction and Mifune's performance bring "Sanjuro" to life, building a fascinating story with clever surprises and memorable characters. This well-paced narrative explores themes of loyalty, honor, and the complexities of people, all seen through the eyes of Sanjuro, a samurai who has seen it all.IMDb 8.0TMDB 8.0 - 27
Inland SeaMovie · 2018 · 122mIn Ushimado, a small village in Japan's Seto Inland Sea, Wai-chan, 86, is one of the last remaining fishermen, continuing to fish alone in hopes of retiring. Kumi-san, 84, regularly walks the shoreline, convinced a care home took her disabled son for financial gain. Koso-san, a woman in her late years, runs her husband's seafood shop, selling to locals and feeding the stray cats with leftovers. Ushimado's traditional culture and close community are fading as the town struggles with the changes of postwar Japan.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.4 - 28
On the Road ForeverMovie · 1964 · 89mA traveling gambler arrives in a village seeking revenge for his father's death. He soon discovers the village is secretly controlled by criminals who enslave the local population.IMDb 6.6 - 29
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.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3 - 30
Blue Film WomanMovie · 1969 · 77mWhen his stock investments crash, a man becomes deeply indebted to a predatory loan shark named Uchiyama. Desperate, his wife offers herself to Uchiyama to buy time for her husband to repay the debt. Uchiyama then exploits her by asking her to be a companion for his son, who has a mental disability. Tragically, she is struck by a car. Overwhelmed by grief and illness, the husband succumbs to despair. Their daughter works as a nightclub dancer, saving every penny to help with the mounting debt. Following her father's suicide, she resolves to seek revenge.IMDb 4.8TMDB 4.4 - 31
BamyMovie · 2018 · 100mFumiko Tashiro, who works at a public library, unexpectedly reconnects with Ryota Saeki, a former college classmate. They quickly develop a strong attraction and decide to marry. As they plan their wedding and dream of a shared future, Ryota grapples with his secret ability to see ghosts.IMDb 4.8 - 32
Mori, The Artist's HabitatMovie · 2018 · 99mPainter Morikazu cultivates a lush garden filled with insects and cats – his constant inspiration. For over thirty years, he has found joy in observing these creatures, and his loved ones share in the simple happiness of their days together.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.3 - 33
HanagatamiMovie · 2017 · 169mSpring 1941. In the coastal town of Karatsu, sixteen-year-old Toshihiko attends school while his aunt cares for his sick cousin. Surrounded by the sea and local traditions, Toshihiko forms close bonds with other remarkable teenagers as they all grapple with the growing threat of war.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0 - 34
The Third MurderMovie · 2017 · 125m · Drama, Mystery, CrimeA lawyer hired to defend someone accused of robbery and murder starts to question the official story.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6 - 35
Pumpkin and MayonnaiseMovie · 2017 · 93mA down-on-his-luck musician, living with his girlfriend, seeks a better life when he learns the truth about how she's been covering their rent.IMDb 5.7TMDB 6.5 - 36
Red Peony Gambler: Flower Cards GameMovie · 1969 · 98mThe third installment of the ‘Red Peony Gambler’ series follows Red Peony Oryu as she embraces her womanhood with a red peony tattoo and navigates the world of yakuza honor in Meiji-era Nagoya. While traveling the country to restore her family's name, Oryu arrives at the Nishinomaru family with a letter of introduction from Kumatora. The Nishinomaru family is preparing for their traditional gambling competition at the Netsuda Shrine Festival, but the ruthless Kinbara family schemes to seize control. Consequently, Oryu finds herself drawn into their conflict.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0 - 37
The City of BetrayalMovie · 2016 · 132mYuichi is a part-time worker who enjoys a relaxed lifestyle, supported by an allowance from the woman he lives with, Tomoko, a housewife. They connect through an online dating site and begin a romantic relationship. However, their lives are on the verge of change when something unexpected happens.IMDb 6.0TMDB 3.0 - 38
The Night I SwamMovie · 2018 · 79mSnow blankets the mountains of Japan. Each night, a fisherman walks to the town market. His six-year-old son is awakened by his father's departure and can't fall back asleep. While the house sleeps, the boy draws a picture, which he puts in his bag. Still half-asleep on the way to school, he wanders off the path and into the snow.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.4 - 39
Outrage CodaMovie · 2017 · 104m · Action, Crime, ThrillerFive years after a devastating war between the Sanno and Hanabishi crime families, Otomo, a former yakuza boss, works as a fixer in South Korea for Mr. Chang. When tensions escalate between Chang and the Hanabishi, putting his life at risk, Otomo returns to Japan to resolve the conflict.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.8 - 40
Passage of LifeMovie · 2017 · 98mKaung, a Burmese boy, and his family moved to Japan seeking a better future. They've been living in Tokyo for years without legal visas. The constant pressure of their illegal status begins to fracture their family.IMDb 5.5TMDB 6.0 - 41
Kurama TenguMovie · 1928 · 71mKurama Tengu is a 1928 Japanese silent film, accompanied by a benshi, and directed by Teppei Yamaguchi. It's part of a popular series following the adventurous hero Kurama Tengu. While the series is based on novels by Jiro Osaragi, the films featuring Kanjuro Arashi are particularly prized. The series is notable for its climactic scenes, often depicting the main character battling multiple enemies with a sword in each hand.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 42
A Free ManMovie · 2017 · 75mKei, a 22-year-old, rejects Japan's focus on success. He lives on the streets of Kyoto, choosing a life outside societal norms, finding solace in nature and music. But when his money runs out, he must confront reality.IMDb 7.6 - 43
Destiny: The Tale of KamakuraMovie · 2017 · 129m · Mystery, Drama, FantasyIn a world where mythical creatures and humans coexist, Akiko, a bright publishing assistant, relocates to Kamakura after marrying Masakazu, a well-known mystery writer. She's charmed by the town's unique atmosphere. But her newfound happiness is shattered when a minor event unexpectedly pulls her into the afterlife. Determined to reclaim his wife, Masakazu ventures into the underworld to bring Akiko back.IMDb 6.6TMDB 7.4 - 44
The NameMovie · 2018 · 114mMasao (45) is struggling after a business failure left him broke and divorced, living a bleak life in Ibaraki. His routine is disrupted by the arrival of Emiko, a mysterious high school girl who occasionally teases him. Slowly, Masao finds himself drawn to her charm and begins to confide in her, something he rarely does. Yet, there's an unsettling quality to Emiko that persistently troubles him.IMDb 5.6TMDB 7.5 - 45
Ramen HeadsMovie · 2017 · 93m"Ramen Heads" follows Osamu Tomita, Japan's top ramen chef, as he unveils his meticulous process for crafting exceptional ramen. The film details his intense dedication to perfecting the broth and noodles, and his unwavering pursuit of the finest ingredients.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6 - 46
Destiny's SonMovie · 1962 · 71mIn feudal Japan, Shingo's mother was an assassin executed for killing her lord's concubine. Years later, his adopted family is murdered to protect this secret. Possessing an unparalleled swordsmanship skill, Shingo becomes a masterless samurai driven by a desire for revenge and a future free from his shameful past.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.6 - 47
YojimboMovie · 1961 · 110m · Drama, ThrillerIn feudal Japan, a masterless samurai named Sanjuro Kuwabatake arrives in a village where two businessmen, Tazaemon (a silk merchant) and Tokuemon (a sake merchant), are competing for control of the local gambling business. Sanjuro becomes their bodyguard, secretly manipulating events to turn their rivalry into a full-blown gang war. He exposes their deceitful ambitions, leading to a destructive confrontation. As Sanjuro navigates this dangerous situation, his true motives remain unclear, blurring the lines of honor and deception in this gripping story.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.1 - 48
Mary and The Witch's FlowerMovie · 2017 · 103m · Adventure, Animation, FamilyMary Smith, living with her great-aunt in the countryside, follows a mysterious cat into the woods. There, she discovers an unusual flower and an antique broom, each harboring secrets beyond the ordinary.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.1 - 49
NoiseMovie · 2019 · 115mThe 2008 Akihabara street killing, which deeply disturbed the world, served as the inspiration for director Yûsaku Matsumoto's film. He examines random violence in Japanese society, focusing on the events leading up to and following one particular incident. By observing the lives of those involved – perpetrators, victims, and their families – the film presents a human story about acts of cruelty.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.0 - 50
Wilderness: 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 - 51
Violence VoyagerMovie · 2018 · 84mAfter school, Bobby, an American boy, and his friend Akkun head into the mountains to find a secret base. They stop at a strange amusement park on their way. After enjoying themselves, they are trapped there and attacked, joining other lost children. Together, they fight off the attacks and uncover the truth about the park.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.8
