The best of Japanese cinema –

Japanese cinema has long been a cornerstone in film history, with a rich tradition dating back to the early 20th century. From the dawn of silent film, cinema from the Land of the Rising Sun has constantly evolved, exploring unique genres and styles.

With that in mind, we want to delve into this country’s cinema in this article. From live-action to anime. From Akira Kurosawa to Hayao Miyazaki. Below we explore some of the best films in Japanese cinema, showing the depth and diversity this dynamic film industry has to offer.

Live Action

When people think of Japanese cinema today, they usually think of two things: live-action and anime, especially Akira Kurosawa and Hayao Miyazaki. In the golden age of classic cinema, directors like Akira Kurosawa became international icons and shared the beauty of Japanese stories and visuals with audiences around the world. So let’s take a trip down memory lane! Here’s our take on the best of live-action cinema that you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

3. Battle Royale (2000)

While Battle Royale may not fit the traditional mold of classic cinema, it has undeniably achieved iconic and cult status. This dystopian thriller thrusts us into a gripping scenario in which a group of college students are forced to kill each other on a desert island. Kinji Fukasaku crafts a bold story full of sharp social criticism, making this film a landmark of contemporary Japanese cinema. It challenges our notions of morality and survival, reflects the dark instincts of society and raises profound questions about the value of human life in extreme circumstances. And frankly, it’s the kind of film that makes you question your group project choices – suddenly that math homework doesn’t seem so bad.

2. Harakiri (1962)

Harakiri is a powerful drama that critiques the samurai code of honor through the tragic story of a ronin who seeks the right to commit ritual suicide in the home of a samurai. The film, directed by Masaki Kobayashi, is a poignant reflection on sacrifice and hypocrisy in society. The intricate story and character development challenge the glorification of bushido and force us to face the moral complexities of loyalty and honor. With stunning cinematography and a gripping storyline, Harakiri continues to make an important contribution to Japanese cinema and embodies its ability to provoke thought and evoke emotion. And let’s face it, after watching this, you might just want to rethink that “honor” -tattoo you were considering.

1. Seven samurai (1954)

With so many incredible films in Akira Kurosawa’s oeuvre, it’s hard to choose just one, but Seven Samurai always stands out just a little above the rest. An enduring classic, Seven Samurai tells the heroic story of a group of warriors working together to defend a village from bandits. Directed by the legendary Akira Kurosawa, the film is known for its masterful direction, in-depth exploration of the struggle between good and evil and its groundbreaking story structure. With its unforgettable characters and thrilling action scenes, Seven Samurai has influenced countless works in various genres and remains a timeless masterpiece in film history. This film not only showcases the artistry of Japanese cinema, but also highlights universal themes of courage, sacrifice and humanity. Seriously, this one is not to be missed.

Anime

As Japanese cinema evolved, so did anime – a captivating art form that has taken the world by storm! Born in the 1960s, anime has grown into a vibrant tapestry of genres, from blood-curdling action series to deep, philosophical journeys. Visionaries like Hayao Miyazaki have left an unforgettable mark on the medium, taking anime beyond entertainment to become a powerful narrative art. So let’s dive in! Here’s our pick for the best of anime you just can’t miss.

7. I want to eat your pancreas (2018)

A moving story of life and death, I Want to Eat Your Pancreas follows a young man who discovers that his classmate has a terminal illness. As their relationship evolves, the moments they share serve as a touching reminder of the fragility of life. The film beautifully captures the emotional weight of human connection and invites us to reflect on the importance of nurturing our relationships. And if this film teaches us anything, it’s that we should enjoy every moment – just like Mom used to say: eat your vegetables, boy.

6. A silent voice (2016)

A deeply moving story of redemption, A Silent Voice revolves around a young man trying to make amends for bullying a deaf classmate. Naoko Yamada’s film addresses themes of empathy and forgiveness with sensitivity and depth. It explores the impact of bullying and the complexity of communication, and resonates with anyone who has struggled with guilt and the desire for reconciliation. And as with I Want to Eat Your Pancreas, you may want to grab some tissues instead of popcorn.

5. Spirit in the Shell (1995)

This futuristic thriller delves into issues of identity and technology and asks profound questions about what it means to be human in an increasingly digital world. Ghost in the Shell, directed by Mamoru Oshii, is not only a cornerstone of anime, but also a cultural touchstone that has inspired works around the world. Its exploration of consciousness, self-identity and social implications of technology remains relevant, making it a must-watch for fans of speculative fiction. And who knows, after watching it, you might wonder if your smartphone is secretly planning to take over the world – you better keep those updates under control.

4. Akira (1988)

A landmark science fiction anime, Akira explores a dystopian future filled with action and philosophical dilemmas. The film, directed by Katsuhiro Otomo, is praised for its groundbreaking animation and complex story. It presents a gripping vision of societal breakdown and individual rebellion, leaving a lasting mark on popular culture and paving the way for future anime works. And after seeing it, you may feel inspired to channel your inner rebel – don’t forget to leave the motorcycle stunts to the professionals.

3. Tomb of the fireflies (1988)

Set against the backdrop of World War II, Grave of the Fireflies tells the heartbreaking story of two siblings struggling to survive in a devastated Japan. Directed by Isao Takahata, this film is a powerful reflection on loss and hope amid horror. Its emotional depth and tragic beauty resonate with us all, reminding us of the fragility of life and the impact of war on innocent lives. Grave of the Fireflies remains one of the most moving anti-war films ever made, showing the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. And while it is a tearjerker, it also serves as a reminder to hug your loved ones a little more tightly, because life can be as fleeting as the glow of a firefly.

2. Your Name (2016)

It’s quite a challenge to select just one work from Makoto Shinkai’s incredible filmography, but Your Name is absolutely my favorite – I’ve watched it more than five times and I still love it every time. This beautiful love story interweaves the lives of two teenagers who mysteriously switch bodies and explore themes of connection, destiny and the fleeting nature of time. Shinkai’s stunning animation and evocative soundtrack resonate around the world, making Your Name a modern classic that captivates us all with its emotional depth and visual splendor. Let me tell you: this film will be a classic in Japanese cinema, there is no doubt about it. So you don’t want to miss this one.

1. Chased Away (2001)

Choosing a single film from Hayao Miyazaki’s remarkable career is no easy task, but Spirited Away holds a special place in my heart. ThisStudio Ghibli masterpiece follows the journey of Chihiro, a young girl trapped in a magical world who must face various challenges to return home. Miyazaki’s enchanting storytelling and rich animation create a tale that celebrates resilience and imagination. A moving exploration of identity, growth and the importance of kindness, the film earns its place as one of the best animated films of all time. But also as one of the best in Japanese cinema, attesting to the value of anime as a major force in international cinema.

So there you have it! Japanese cinema, both in its live action form and in the realm of anime, offers a rich variety of stories and emotions that have left a deep mark on the global film landscape. These ten films represent just a glimpse of the richness and diversity of Japanese creativity and invite us to explore universal themes through a unique cultural lens. Whether through the lens of live action or animation, the genius of Japanese filmmakers continues to captivate and inspire us all.

Sharing a top ten is always exciting, especially with so many great choices out there. But of course, opinions vary from person to person! So, what about your favorite movies? Let us know in the comments!