If you are a lover of Japanese culture and art, you definitely cannot ignore the classic movies that have made the name of this country's cinema. From innovative and unique animated films, to psychological, social and dramatic films that deeply reflect the reality and life of Japanese people, all bring timeless artistic and cultural values. In this article, we will introduce you to the top 10 most classic Japanese movies, along with their unique contents. Let's explore the masterpieces of Japanese cinema through this article and don't forget to vote for your favorite work!
1 Departures (Okuribito)
Departures movie poster (Source: Film Forum)
2008 Departures Official Trailer 1
This is a great movie about life and death, about love and forgiveness. The film tells the story of Daigo Kobayashi, a violinist who is unemployed when his orchestra disbands. He and his wife moved back to his hometown in Yamagata, where he found a new job: serving as a ceremonial for the dead. At first, he was shy and fearful of dealing with corpses, and was also despised by his family and friends because of his odd profession. But gradually, he realizes that his job is not only to beautify the dead, but also to help the living find meaning and comfort in grief. He also learns many things from his boss, Sasaki, who is experienced and dedicated to the profession. Through different funerals, Daigo feels appreciation and respect for life and death, and also better understands the relationship between parents and children. The movie Departures (Okuribito) is a touching and poignant film, giving viewers different emotions about life and death. The film won the Oscar for best foreign film in 2009, and was also highly appreciated by critics and audiences around the world.
2 My Neighbor Totoro (Tonari no Totoro)
The forest in My Neighbor Totoro (Source: Film Forum)
My Neighbor Totoro - Official Trailer
My Neighbor Totoro (Tonari no Totoro) is a Japanese animated fantasy film, written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, and produced by Studio Ghibli in 1988. The film tells the story of two Little girls Satsuki and Mei, the daughter of a university professor, and their adventures with friendly forest spirits in post-war Japan. The film is a creative and emotional work of art, expressing Miyazaki's love for nature, children, and rural life. The film also brings messages about life, joy, hope and family. The film has received numerous awards and appreciation from audiences and critics worldwide, and has become a cultural icon of Japan. The main character of the film, Totoro, is a very lovable big-bellied furry beast that has become the mascot of Studio Ghibli and one of the most popular cartoon characters. The movie My Neighbor Totoro is an animated film not to be missed for those who love the genre, and a meaningful gift for children and adults.
3 Spirited Away (Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi)
Spirited Away (Source: Film Forum)
Spirited Away - Official Trailer
Spirited Away (Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi) is a Japanese animated film directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. The film tells the story of little Chihiro, a 10-year-old girl who gets lost in the world of gods and youkai when her parents are turned into pigs. In order to save her parents and return home, Chihiro must work at a public bathhouse under the management of the witch Yubaba. In the process, she met many new friends and experienced many amazing adventures. The film is a creative and meaningful work of art that expresses Miyazaki's love for nature and people. The film was also a commercial success, becoming the highest-grossing film in Japanese film history and winning several prestigious awards, including the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2003.
4 Rashomon (Rashōmon)
Acting in the film Rashomon (Source: Film Forum)
Rashomon Original Trailer
Rashomon (Rashōmon) is a popular Japanese film directed by Akira Kurosawa, released in 1950. The film is based on two short stories by writer Ryunosuke Akutagawa: Rashomon and In the Forest. The film tells the story of a murder that occurs in the forest, but there are four different versions of the incident from four witnesses: a bandit, a dead samurai, the samurai's wife, and a buffalo herder. Each version has contradictions and expresses the narrator's own point of view. The film explores themes and highlights messages of objective and relative truth, as well as human weakness and selfishness. The film made a strong impression on audiences and critics worldwide, and is considered a classic of Japanese cinema.
5 Tokyo Story
Footage from Tokyo Story (Source: Film Forum)
Tokyo Story Official Trailer
The Japanese film Tokyo Story is a cinematic classic directed by Yasujiro Ozu. The film tells the story of an elderly couple in a remote village, visiting their children and grandchildren in Tokyo. However, they were not warmly received and faced with the alienation and coldness of the younger generation. The film is a poignant picture of Japanese family, social and cultural life after the Second World War. The film is also a statement of love, gratitude and sacrifice of parents for their children. The film Tokyo Story has been highly praised by critics and audiences worldwide, and is considered one of the best films of all time.
6 Seven Samurai (Shichinin no Samurai)
A scene from the movie Seven Samurai (Source: Film Forum)
Seven Samurai (1954) Trailer #1
If you are a movie lover, you must not miss the Japanese movie Seven Samurai (Shichinin no Samurai). This is one of the classics of famous director Akira Kurosawa, produced in 1954. The film tells the story of seven samurai hired by a poor village to protect them from terrifying bandits. The film not only gives viewers thrilling action scenes, but also shows deep human values of courage, friendship and sacrifice. The film has also influenced many later films, such as The Magnificent Seven or A Bug's Life. You can watch this movie on many online platforms, or buy DVDs to enjoy at home. Let's explore the movie Seven Samurai and feel its appeal!
7 Battle Royale (Batoru Rowaiaru)
Best Segment in Battle Royale (Source: Film Forum)
Battle Royale Official Blu-Ray Trailer (2000)
If you are a fan of the survival action movie genre, you cannot ignore the Japanese movie Battle Royale (Batoru Rowaiaru). This is a classic movie about a class kidnapped by the government and forced to participate in a bloody game on a deserted island. Each student is armed with a random weapon and an explosive necklace. They must kill each other to survive, only one person is allowed to leave the island. The film not only has fascinating and thrilling scenes, but also deeply portrays the relationships, conflicts and emotions of the characters in fierce situations. The film also raises questions about the meaning of life, friendship, love, and sacrifice. Battle Royale is a movie not for the faint of heart, but if you want to experience a dramatic and touching adventure, you should watch this movie right away.
8 Grave of the Fireflies
Touching scenes in Grave of the Fireflies (Source: Film Forum)
Grave of the Fireflies - Official Trailer
Grave of the Fireflies (Hotaru no Haka) is a famous Japanese animated film about the lives of two orphaned brothers during the Second World War. The film was directed by Isao Takahata and produced by Studio Ghibli in 1988. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Nosaka Akiyuki, a writer who experienced war as a child. The film realistically and emotionally portrays the hardships, poverty and cruelty of war for innocent people, especially children. The film is also a tribute to the love and sacrifice between brothers Seita and Setsuko, who try to survive in a cold and violent world. The film is considered a classic of Japanese and world cinema, loved and praised by many. The film has also caused a lot of controversy about its meaning and message. Some see the film as a poignant criticism of Japan's war policy, while others see the film as an excuse for the nation. Either way, the movie Grave of the Fireflies (Hotaru no Haka) is a film worth watching and reflecting on human rights, peace, and humanity.
9 Your Name
Your Name movie poster (Source: Film Forum)
Kimi no Na wa (Your Name) Trailer
The Japanese movie Your Name (Kimi no Na wa.) is a fantasy and romantic anime about two teenagers living in two different worlds. Mitsuha is a girl who lives in a small village located at the foot of a mountain, while Taki is a schoolboy living in Tokyo. One day, they begin to experience strange dreams in which they swap positions with each other. They must find a way to adapt to their new life and learn about the mystery behind this displacement. The film is an emotional and creative work of art that gives viewers exciting and unexpected experiences. The film also portrays the beautiful culture and scenery of Japan, as well as profound messages about love, destiny, and human connection.
10 Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai (Ichimei)
Scenes from Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai (Source: Film Forum)
Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai [2011] Official Trailer
If you are a lover of Japanese historical dramas, you cannot miss the movie Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai (Ichimei) directed by Takashi Miike. It is a 3D remake of Masaki Kobayashi's famous 1962 film Harakiri. The film tells the story of revenge, honor and humiliation of an impoverished samurai who discovers the fate of his son-in-law, a ronin, and causes a tense confrontation with the house of a feudal lord. The film, which premiered at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival, was the first 3D film to do so. The film stars talented actors such as Ichikawa Ebizō XI, Eita, Kōji Yakusho and famous musician Ryuichi Sakamoto. The film is a work of art, giving viewers beautiful scenes, eye-catching martial arts performances and deep emotions about the life and death of samurai.
