More than 100 films to input, with descriptions such as directors, year released, my comments on each film, and overall rating out of 10.
This will be nice to personally look back on as well as to hopefully assist viewers on film recommendations.
About how I rate films: I am a critical thinker but I don't pretend to be capable of critically evaluating a film without subjective opinion. I do, however, have a background and continuing interest in analyzing films so I try to bring some of that to the table. Most of what factors into my ratings is personal enjoyment. Other factors include originality, quality of the film (cinematography, music, acting, directing, etc), and the film's impact on me. I try to keep my feeling about certain actors/actresses/directors out of the picture, but sometimes I'm just obsessed and can't help it.
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Departures (おくりびと) -- Takita Yojiro -- 2008 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ Best foreign film Oscar winner. Amazing music by Hisaishi Joe. Great acting all around, I specifically enjoyed Yamazaki Tsutomu. Very touching film about death and the traditional ceremonies surrounding it.
Tokyo Sonata (トウキョソンナタ) -- Kurosawa Kiyoshi -- 2008 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ Incredible film about the downward spiral of a family in recession-time Japan. Haunting and modern. Both gave me chills and made me tear up. This is a must-watch film.
5 Centimeters per Second (秒速５センチメートル) -- Shinkai Makoto -- 2007 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ *Anime film* A BEAUTIFUL film. All I need to say is that you need to watch this movie. It is a masterpiece.
Little DJ-A Tale of a Little Love- (Little DJ〜小さな恋の物語) -- Nagata Kotoe -- 2007 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ This is one of my favorite films. A spin on the SekaChuu story, with genders reversed. Acting is spot on, especially by Fukuda Mayuko and Kamiki Ryuunosuke, who are both children. A very inspirational and touching story that used its screen time very well. One of the few films that have emotionally moved me.
Scars of the Sun or Sun Scarred (太陽の傷) -- Miike Takashi -- 2006 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ A bleak and cold film that is quite disturbing. Aikawa Sho plays a man whose young daughter is brutally murdered by a gang of young delinquents. What's next? Revenge. This film is satisfying and well-done. My favorite Miike film.
Always--Sunset on Third Street 2 (ALWAYS 続・三丁目の夕日) -- Yamazaki Takashi -- 2005 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ Like its predecessor, a multiple-award winner, including best actor and best film. This is a great sequel that in my mind improves upon the previous film. There is a cinematic splendour that surrounds these films that doesn't exist in many Japanese films. Gives me the same feeling as Hula Girls, Waterboys, and Swing Girls. An incredibly touching film with great production values and great acting.
Be With You (いま、会いにゆきます) -- Doi Nobuhiro -- 2004 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ This is one great film. It revolves around the story of a wife and mother who dies, but one day comes back to be with her family one last time. Great acting, unforgettable music, and an enchanting story. The film moves along at a good pace, playing little mysteries throughout and bringing them together at the end. Such a charming piece of cinema.
Laundry (ランドリー) -- Mori Junichi -- 2002 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ Laundry is a heartwarming story about Teru, a young man who suffers from a brain injury sustained at a young age and Mizue, a single woman with many problems of her own. Kubozuka Yosuke is probably the greatest actor alive in Japan. His performance, along with Koyuki's, is perfect. The film is comedic, dark, touching, and beautiful. It is a film that must be seen and appreciated for what it is.
All About Lily Chou-Chou (リリイ・シュシュのすべて ) -- Iwai Shunji -- 2001 -- Rating: 10*/10
Thoughts~ In my opinion, cinematic genius. This film deals with childhood bullying and internet, music, and friendship themes. My first time watching Lily, I was mesmerized and when the credits began to roll it felt as if I had awoken from a dream. Perfect Iwai cinematography, great soundtrack, and inspired acting by many young actors who would go on to become very famous. My favorite film.
Kikujiro no Natsu (菊次郎の夏) -- Kitano Takeshi -- 1999 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ This is my favorite Kitano film. It tells the story of a young boy who decides to search for his mother during summer vacation. Kitano is hilarious as a man who accompanies the boy, often straying off path to gamble, drink, and enjoy himself. They journey through the countryside, making friends and learning about life. Kikujiro is a very touching and intriguing film about experience and growing up. Hisaishi Joe once again contributes a beautiful score to another Kitano masterpiece. Watch this film.
Orochi (おろち) -- Tsuruta Norio -- 2008 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Very interesting horror film about two sisters born into a cursed family where the women are beautiful but turn into grotesque monsters at age 29. Acting was excellent. This was less of a horror film and more a beautifully filmed, interesting mystery. Definitely recommended.
The Magic Hour (ザ・マジックアワー) -- Mitani Koki -- 2008 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Hilarious. Tsumabuki Satoshi and Sato Koichi are comic genius with this script as Sato plays an actor hired by Tsumabuki to play a deadly assassin...except that it's not a role, it's real life! The Magic Hour is a throwback to classic cinema, with many parodies throughout the movie. It is not over the top and goes at a nice pace. Very well directed, well filmed, and did I mention hilarious?
Welcome to the Quiet Room (クワイエットルームにようこそ) -- Matsuo Suzuki -- 2007 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ I'd consider this film to be pretty close to a masterpiece. Uchida Yuki delivers a knockout performance as a patient that is sent to a psychiatric hospital after a drug overdose that was mistaken for a suicide attempt. There are so many well-known actors/actresses that make cameos in the film. While definitely being a dark comedy, the film is deep, exploring what it means to live.
The Battery (バッテリー) -- Takita Yojiro -- 2007 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ A very touching movie about the importance of friendship and what it means to play baseball. This film is probably one of my favorite sports movies. The child acting was really good; I especially liked the lead, Hayashi Kento, who I can see becoming big. Good story, good setting, and great presentation lead to an overall great film.
Hula Girls (フラガール) -- Lee Sang-il -- 2006 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Aoi Yu! She is a wonderful actress. This movie won best film at the Japanese Academy Awards. Acting was top notch, along with the music. Hula Girls is one of the most inspiring and touching movies that I have ever seen. I never would have thought that I would enjoy a movie about poor girls learning hula in a past setting, but I really did.
Memories of Tomorrow (明日の記憶) -- Tsutsumi Yukihiko -- 2006 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ I'm a sucker for great acting, and Watanabe Ken gives one of the greatest performances I have ever seen, playing an early-onset Alzheimer patient. He won Best Actor at the Japanese Academy Awards for his role. The rest of the cast consists of well-known actors and actresses. The movie is incredibly well-directed with a good soundtrack to accompany the ups and downs of the narrative.
Letters from Iwo Jima (硫黄島からの手紙) -- Clint Eastwood -- 2006 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Clint Eastwood is a master director and I am so glad that he made this film. It depicts the Japanese side during WWII, specifically during the invasion by the U.S. of the island of Iwo Jima. Watanabe Ken and Kazunari Ninomiya are great in this film, among other great performances. Perfect music, directing, and cinematography add to the visual splendor of the film. Nominated for 4 Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
Hana and Alice (花とアリス) -- Iwai Shunji -- 2004 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Comedic teenage romance film about two best friends who devise an elaborate story just to get a guy. I love Iwai's script and camerawork, as usual. I also love Aoi Yu, who performs great along with Suzuki Anne. The ballet scene at the end is one of cinematic genius.
Swing Girls (スウィングガールズ) -- Yaguchi Shinobu -- 2004 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ A very entertaining comedy film about a school jazz band. Ueno Juri is hilarious, and so is Takenaka Naoto, playing his usual, wacky self. A great film to watch for those not yet fully used to Japanese cinema.
Nobody Knows (誰も知らない) -- Koreeda Hirokazu -- 2004 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ This is a great look at a dark point of Japanese society--children forced to live on their own. Great performances--Yagira Yuya is the youngest winner of the Best Actor prize at Cannes. A slow and pondering film that is both effective and beautiful. A great example of Koreeda's filmmaking.
Zatoichi (座頭市) -- Kitano Takeshi -- 2003 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Kitano Takeshi plays a great Zatoichi. He's a very entertaining actor that brings mystery, charisma, and general bad-ass-ness to the blind samurai character. The story is good, with nice twists and great action scenes. A very enjoyable samurai film.
DRIVE (ドライブ) -- SABU -- 2002 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ The premise: A group of bank robbers rob a bank, but one of their companions steals the money and runs off with the getaway car. The remaining robbers jump into a random car and force the man to drive. Soon the robbers realize that they chose the worst car possible, as the man driving is excessively law-abiding and suffers from migraines. He refuses to drive faster than the speed limit, even under threat of death. The opening scene to this film is a perfect example of SABU, and is one of my favorite film scenes. DRIVE is a very deep, dark comedy that is all over the place and satisfying. Definitely recommended.
Waterboys (ウォーターボーイズ) -- Yaguchi Shinobu -- 2001 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Man, does this director know how to make appealing, hilarious, and feel-good movies. Waterboys is one of the most hilarious films I've seen. It is about a group of high school boys who form a synchronized swimming team. Tsumabuki Satoshi is comedic genius and the rest of the cast supports well. I can't say how many people I've recommended this movie to. A must-see Japanese film!
Go! (IMDb link) -- Yukisada Isao -- 2001 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Go depicts the story of a Japanese-born Korean boy (Kubozuka Yosuke) and his love for a Japanese girl (Shibasaki Kou). I love both of these actors, and they performed admirably. Go won Kubozuka a Best Actor award at the Japanese Academy Awards along with the 41 awards total for the film. In all aspects, a great film that deals with the controversial issue of racism in Japan.
Battle Royale (バトル・ロワイアル) -- Fukasaku Kinji -- 2000 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ I noticed that this film appears most on Midnight Eye's list of Japanese films of the decade. Battle Royale is an incredibly influential and unique film that I could write a lot more about. Cheesy, but perfect. A Jr. High class is sent to an island to battle it out until one student remains. You can imagine the entertainment, violence, and angst that ensues. I believe this movie to be very deep. The more I watch it, the more I believe that it is indeed a masterpiece.
Fireworks/Hana-bi (はなび) -- Kitano Takeshi -- 1997 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Considered to be Kitano's yakuza-film masterpiece, and I was not disappointed. Being such a highly praised and heavily awarded film, I did have high expectations. Hana-bi is very much a film made for the festival circuit, and it is executed perfectly. Kitano is great for the role that he plays, as is the rest of his ensemble cast. The film is very slow-paced, which will turn most people off, but if you can sit through it and enjoy, it is a rewarding experience--especially after multiple viewings.
Princess Mononoke (もののけ姫) -- Miyazaki Hayao -- 1997 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ *Anime film* The first Miyazaki film that I had the pleasure of experiencing. It is a wonderful fantasy that combines top-notch animation, beautiful music, and a meaningful story. Miyazaki is a genius.
Kids Return (キッズ・リターン) -- Kitano Takeshi -- 1996 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ One of my favorite Kitano films. Beautiful music composed by Hisaishi Joe, as usual. The movie is about two high school dropouts who attempt to find meaning in their lives. Shinji (Ando Masanobu) becomes a successful boxer and Masaru (Kaneko Ken) joins the Yakuza. Very entertaining film with top-notch acting and directing. Kitano at his best.
Grave of the Fireflies (火垂るの墓) -- Takahata Isao -- 1988 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ #178 on IMDb's Top 250 list. A touching and incredibly sad film dealing with a young boy and his little sister's struggle to survive in Japan during and after WWII. I loved this movie. Every single person that I have talked to about this film has told me that they cried. If you need a good cry, this is the movie to see. Heartbreaking, moving, touching, inspirational, and beautiful.
Air Doll (空気人形) -- Koreeda Hirokazu -- 2009 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Best foreign film Oscar winner. Amazing music by Hisaishi Joe. Great acting all around, I specifically enjoyed Yamazaki Tsutomu. Very touching film about death and the traditional ceremonies surrounding it.
Tokyo Sonata (トウキョソンナタ) -- Kurosawa Kiyoshi -- 2008 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ Incredible film about the downward spiral of a family in recession-time Japan. Haunting and modern. Both gave me chills and made me tear up. This is a must-watch film.
5 Centimeters per Second (秒速５センチメートル) -- Shinkai Makoto -- 2007 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ *Anime film* A BEAUTIFUL film. All I need to say is that you need to watch this movie. It is a masterpiece.
Little DJ-A Tale of a Little Love- (Little DJ〜小さな恋の物語) -- Nagata Kotoe -- 2007 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ This is one of my favorite films. A spin on the SekaChuu story, with genders reversed. Acting is spot on, especially by Fukuda Mayuko and Kamiki Ryuunosuke, who are both children. A very inspirational and touching story that used its screen time very well. One of the few films that have emotionally moved me.
Scars of the Sun or Sun Scarred (太陽の傷) -- Miike Takashi -- 2006 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ A bleak and cold film that is quite disturbing. Aikawa Sho plays a man whose young daughter is brutally murdered by a gang of young delinquents. What's next? Revenge. This film is satisfying and well-done. My favorite Miike film.
Always--Sunset on Third Street 2 (ALWAYS 続・三丁目の夕日) -- Yamazaki Takashi -- 2005 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ Like its predecessor, a multiple-award winner, including best actor and best film. This is a great sequel that in my mind improves upon the previous film. There is a cinematic splendour that surrounds these films that doesn't exist in many Japanese films. Gives me the same feeling as Hula Girls, Waterboys, and Swing Girls. An incredibly touching film with great production values and great acting.
Be With You (いま、会いにゆきます) -- Doi Nobuhiro -- 2004 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ This is one great film. It revolves around the story of a wife and mother who dies, but one day comes back to be with her family one last time. Great acting, unforgettable music, and an enchanting story. The film moves along at a good pace, playing little mysteries throughout and bringing them together at the end. Such a charming piece of cinema.
Laundry (ランドリー) -- Mori Junichi -- 2002 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ Laundry is a heartwarming story about Teru, a young man who suffers from a brain injury sustained at a young age and Mizue, a single woman with many problems of her own. Kubozuka Yosuke is probably the greatest actor alive in Japan. His performance, along with Koyuki's, is perfect. The film is comedic, dark, touching, and beautiful. It is a film that must be seen and appreciated for what it is.
All About Lily Chou-Chou (リリイ・シュシュのすべて ) -- Iwai Shunji -- 2001 -- Rating: 10*/10
Thoughts~ In my opinion, cinematic genius. This film deals with childhood bullying and internet, music, and friendship themes. My first time watching Lily, I was mesmerized and when the credits began to roll it felt as if I had awoken from a dream. Perfect Iwai cinematography, great soundtrack, and inspired acting by many young actors who would go on to become very famous. My favorite film.
Kikujiro no Natsu (菊次郎の夏) -- Kitano Takeshi -- 1999 -- Rating: 10/10
Thoughts~ This is my favorite Kitano film. It tells the story of a young boy who decides to search for his mother during summer vacation. Kitano is hilarious as a man who accompanies the boy, often straying off path to gamble, drink, and enjoy himself. They journey through the countryside, making friends and learning about life. Kikujiro is a very touching and intriguing film about experience and growing up. Hisaishi Joe once again contributes a beautiful score to another Kitano masterpiece. Watch this film.
Orochi (おろち) -- Tsuruta Norio -- 2008 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Very interesting horror film about two sisters born into a cursed family where the women are beautiful but turn into grotesque monsters at age 29. Acting was excellent. This was less of a horror film and more a beautifully filmed, interesting mystery. Definitely recommended.
The Magic Hour (ザ・マジックアワー) -- Mitani Koki -- 2008 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Hilarious. Tsumabuki Satoshi and Sato Koichi are comic genius with this script as Sato plays an actor hired by Tsumabuki to play a deadly assassin...except that it's not a role, it's real life! The Magic Hour is a throwback to classic cinema, with many parodies throughout the movie. It is not over the top and goes at a nice pace. Very well directed, well filmed, and did I mention hilarious?
Welcome to the Quiet Room (クワイエットルームにようこそ) -- Matsuo Suzuki -- 2007 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ I'd consider this film to be pretty close to a masterpiece. Uchida Yuki delivers a knockout performance as a patient that is sent to a psychiatric hospital after a drug overdose that was mistaken for a suicide attempt. There are so many well-known actors/actresses that make cameos in the film. While definitely being a dark comedy, the film is deep, exploring what it means to live.
The Battery (バッテリー) -- Takita Yojiro -- 2007 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ A very touching movie about the importance of friendship and what it means to play baseball. This film is probably one of my favorite sports movies. The child acting was really good; I especially liked the lead, Hayashi Kento, who I can see becoming big. Good story, good setting, and great presentation lead to an overall great film.
Hula Girls (フラガール) -- Lee Sang-il -- 2006 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Aoi Yu! She is a wonderful actress. This movie won best film at the Japanese Academy Awards. Acting was top notch, along with the music. Hula Girls is one of the most inspiring and touching movies that I have ever seen. I never would have thought that I would enjoy a movie about poor girls learning hula in a past setting, but I really did.
Memories of Tomorrow (明日の記憶) -- Tsutsumi Yukihiko -- 2006 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ I'm a sucker for great acting, and Watanabe Ken gives one of the greatest performances I have ever seen, playing an early-onset Alzheimer patient. He won Best Actor at the Japanese Academy Awards for his role. The rest of the cast consists of well-known actors and actresses. The movie is incredibly well-directed with a good soundtrack to accompany the ups and downs of the narrative.
Letters from Iwo Jima (硫黄島からの手紙) -- Clint Eastwood -- 2006 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Clint Eastwood is a master director and I am so glad that he made this film. It depicts the Japanese side during WWII, specifically during the invasion by the U.S. of the island of Iwo Jima. Watanabe Ken and Kazunari Ninomiya are great in this film, among other great performances. Perfect music, directing, and cinematography add to the visual splendor of the film. Nominated for 4 Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
Hana and Alice (花とアリス) -- Iwai Shunji -- 2004 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Comedic teenage romance film about two best friends who devise an elaborate story just to get a guy. I love Iwai's script and camerawork, as usual. I also love Aoi Yu, who performs great along with Suzuki Anne. The ballet scene at the end is one of cinematic genius.
Swing Girls (スウィングガールズ) -- Yaguchi Shinobu -- 2004 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ A very entertaining comedy film about a school jazz band. Ueno Juri is hilarious, and so is Takenaka Naoto, playing his usual, wacky self. A great film to watch for those not yet fully used to Japanese cinema.
Nobody Knows (誰も知らない) -- Koreeda Hirokazu -- 2004 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ This is a great look at a dark point of Japanese society--children forced to live on their own. Great performances--Yagira Yuya is the youngest winner of the Best Actor prize at Cannes. A slow and pondering film that is both effective and beautiful. A great example of Koreeda's filmmaking.
Zatoichi (座頭市) -- Kitano Takeshi -- 2003 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Kitano Takeshi plays a great Zatoichi. He's a very entertaining actor that brings mystery, charisma, and general bad-ass-ness to the blind samurai character. The story is good, with nice twists and great action scenes. A very enjoyable samurai film.
DRIVE (ドライブ) -- SABU -- 2002 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ The premise: A group of bank robbers rob a bank, but one of their companions steals the money and runs off with the getaway car. The remaining robbers jump into a random car and force the man to drive. Soon the robbers realize that they chose the worst car possible, as the man driving is excessively law-abiding and suffers from migraines. He refuses to drive faster than the speed limit, even under threat of death. The opening scene to this film is a perfect example of SABU, and is one of my favorite film scenes. DRIVE is a very deep, dark comedy that is all over the place and satisfying. Definitely recommended.
Waterboys (ウォーターボーイズ) -- Yaguchi Shinobu -- 2001 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Man, does this director know how to make appealing, hilarious, and feel-good movies. Waterboys is one of the most hilarious films I've seen. It is about a group of high school boys who form a synchronized swimming team. Tsumabuki Satoshi is comedic genius and the rest of the cast supports well. I can't say how many people I've recommended this movie to. A must-see Japanese film!
Go! (IMDb link) -- Yukisada Isao -- 2001 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Go depicts the story of a Japanese-born Korean boy (Kubozuka Yosuke) and his love for a Japanese girl (Shibasaki Kou). I love both of these actors, and they performed admirably. Go won Kubozuka a Best Actor award at the Japanese Academy Awards along with the 41 awards total for the film. In all aspects, a great film that deals with the controversial issue of racism in Japan.
Battle Royale (バトル・ロワイアル) -- Fukasaku Kinji -- 2000 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ I noticed that this film appears most on Midnight Eye's list of Japanese films of the decade. Battle Royale is an incredibly influential and unique film that I could write a lot more about. Cheesy, but perfect. A Jr. High class is sent to an island to battle it out until one student remains. You can imagine the entertainment, violence, and angst that ensues. I believe this movie to be very deep. The more I watch it, the more I believe that it is indeed a masterpiece.
Fireworks/Hana-bi (はなび) -- Kitano Takeshi -- 1997 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ Considered to be Kitano's yakuza-film masterpiece, and I was not disappointed. Being such a highly praised and heavily awarded film, I did have high expectations. Hana-bi is very much a film made for the festival circuit, and it is executed perfectly. Kitano is great for the role that he plays, as is the rest of his ensemble cast. The film is very slow-paced, which will turn most people off, but if you can sit through it and enjoy, it is a rewarding experience--especially after multiple viewings.
Princess Mononoke (もののけ姫) -- Miyazaki Hayao -- 1997 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ *Anime film* The first Miyazaki film that I had the pleasure of experiencing. It is a wonderful fantasy that combines top-notch animation, beautiful music, and a meaningful story. Miyazaki is a genius.
Kids Return (キッズ・リターン) -- Kitano Takeshi -- 1996 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ One of my favorite Kitano films. Beautiful music composed by Hisaishi Joe, as usual. The movie is about two high school dropouts who attempt to find meaning in their lives. Shinji (Ando Masanobu) becomes a successful boxer and Masaru (Kaneko Ken) joins the Yakuza. Very entertaining film with top-notch acting and directing. Kitano at his best.
Grave of the Fireflies (火垂るの墓) -- Takahata Isao -- 1988 -- Rating: 9/10
Thoughts~ #178 on IMDb's Top 250 list. A touching and incredibly sad film dealing with a young boy and his little sister's struggle to survive in Japan during and after WWII. I loved this movie. Every single person that I have talked to about this film has told me that they cried. If you need a good cry, this is the movie to see. Heartbreaking, moving, touching, inspirational, and beautiful.
Air Doll (空気人形) -- Koreeda Hirokazu -- 2009 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ My Review here.
Fine, Totally Fine (全然大丈夫) -- Fujita Yosuke -- 2008 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ A very quirky comedy. There a lot of strange scenes in this film, but most of them you can't help but laugh at. The message of the movie is great, that life is not all about money or success and that it's fine to just be yourself. Kimura Yoshino stood out as an introverted, clumsy character who never seems to do anything right. Watch this for some good laughs.
Still Walking (あるいてもあるいても) -- Koreeda Hirokazu -- 2008 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Koreeda is at the top of his game. He is a truly great director that I am really starting to regard as a favorite. Still Walking is a family drama about a grown-up son visiting his parents with his new family on the anniversary day of his brothers death. The dialog is superb and Koreeda draws the viewer in by revealing little secrets about the family throughout the film. Many viewers may consider the film to be boring, but if one really takes care to watch and enjoy, they will be moved.
One Million Yen and the Nigamushi Woman (百万円と苦虫女) -- Tanada Yuki -- 2008 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ A road movie, where a girl (played by the ever-impressive Aoi Yu) moves from town to town after saving up 1 million yen in each place. Aoi Yu is fantastic in the film, and the rest of the cast is good as well. A bit of a slow pace but nevertheless an inspiring movie. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed the movie, especially the part where she falls in love.
Kabei: Our Mother (母べえ) -- Yamada Yoji -- 2008 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ This is one of the most well-acted movies that I have ever seen. Yoshinaga Sayuri is great, as always, and Shofukutei Tsurube was spot on as well. The best performance, though, goes to Asano Tadanobu, whose acting touched me deeply. I almost cried several times throughout this film. It depicts the hardship of a mother during WWII, raising children alone after her husband was thrown in jail. Too bad it was very slow and lost my interest in some parts. It is the kind of film that I would like to revisit sometime in the future.
Talk Talk Talk (しゃべれどもしゃべれども) -- Hirayama Hideyuki -- 2007 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Surprisingly good! A film about "Rakugo" or traditional Japanese comedy. Good directing and great performances, especially by the kid.
Adrift in Tokyo (転々) -- Miki Satoshi -- 2007 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Tenten is a very good film. It is about a law student (Odagiri Joe) who is in debt tat is dragged around Tokyo by a loan shark. They see various things and people along their path, discovering friendship and self-identity. Odagiri Joe is such a versatile actor. Very well acted, well written, and well directed film.
This World of Ours (俺たちの世界) -- Nakajima Ryo -- 2007 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Uniquely masterful film dealing with youth brutality. I'm not quite sure what to say about this movie...it is very low budget and very unique. It is the director's (who is a former hikkikomori) first film, and has received a lot of buzz at film festivals. Watch it and discover for yourself.
Swallowtail Butterfly (スワロウテイル) -- Iwai Shunji -- 1996 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ A film considered a masterpiece by many. It is a deep film that deals with many social issues such as the hardship felt by foreigners in Japan. There are three main languages spoken in the film--English, Chinese, and Japanese--which adds to the feeling of "foreignness" in many ways. Acting is excellent and cinematography is unique yet sometimes confusing (it was filmed entirely on handheld cameras). The movie is long, and while the first half drags a bit, the second half is magnificent. Iwai Shunji is a genius director and this is a great movie, but not my favorite of his.
Love Letter (情書) -- Iwai Shunji -- 1995 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Iwai Shunji burst into the mainstream with this film. It is possibly one of the greatest love stories ever written, in my mind. Great music, cinematography, directing, and acting (Nakayama Miho is great in a double role). Too bad it lost its way a bit in the middle. Still, Love Letter is a multi-award winning film that became incredibly popular in Asia.
Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone (ヱヴァンゲリヲン新劇場版: 序) -- Anno Hideaki -- 2007 -- Rating: 7/10
Thoughts~ Really, really cool. Keep in mind, I have not watched the original anime series, but I loved this. Most criticism comes from fans of the original series. Check it out, it's a really cool futuristic and psychological film. The 4th highest grossing anime film at the Japanese box office in 2007.
Fine, Totally Fine (全然大丈夫) -- Fujita Yosuke -- 2008 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ A very quirky comedy. There a lot of strange scenes in this film, but most of them you can't help but laugh at. The message of the movie is great, that life is not all about money or success and that it's fine to just be yourself. Kimura Yoshino stood out as an introverted, clumsy character who never seems to do anything right. Watch this for some good laughs.
Still Walking (あるいてもあるいても) -- Koreeda Hirokazu -- 2008 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Koreeda is at the top of his game. He is a truly great director that I am really starting to regard as a favorite. Still Walking is a family drama about a grown-up son visiting his parents with his new family on the anniversary day of his brothers death. The dialog is superb and Koreeda draws the viewer in by revealing little secrets about the family throughout the film. Many viewers may consider the film to be boring, but if one really takes care to watch and enjoy, they will be moved.
One Million Yen and the Nigamushi Woman (百万円と苦虫女) -- Tanada Yuki -- 2008 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ A road movie, where a girl (played by the ever-impressive Aoi Yu) moves from town to town after saving up 1 million yen in each place. Aoi Yu is fantastic in the film, and the rest of the cast is good as well. A bit of a slow pace but nevertheless an inspiring movie. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed the movie, especially the part where she falls in love.
Kabei: Our Mother (母べえ) -- Yamada Yoji -- 2008 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ This is one of the most well-acted movies that I have ever seen. Yoshinaga Sayuri is great, as always, and Shofukutei Tsurube was spot on as well. The best performance, though, goes to Asano Tadanobu, whose acting touched me deeply. I almost cried several times throughout this film. It depicts the hardship of a mother during WWII, raising children alone after her husband was thrown in jail. Too bad it was very slow and lost my interest in some parts. It is the kind of film that I would like to revisit sometime in the future.
Talk Talk Talk (しゃべれどもしゃべれども) -- Hirayama Hideyuki -- 2007 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Surprisingly good! A film about "Rakugo" or traditional Japanese comedy. Good directing and great performances, especially by the kid.
Adrift in Tokyo (転々) -- Miki Satoshi -- 2007 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Tenten is a very good film. It is about a law student (Odagiri Joe) who is in debt tat is dragged around Tokyo by a loan shark. They see various things and people along their path, discovering friendship and self-identity. Odagiri Joe is such a versatile actor. Very well acted, well written, and well directed film.
This World of Ours (俺たちの世界) -- Nakajima Ryo -- 2007 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Uniquely masterful film dealing with youth brutality. I'm not quite sure what to say about this movie...it is very low budget and very unique. It is the director's (who is a former hikkikomori) first film, and has received a lot of buzz at film festivals. Watch it and discover for yourself.
Sad Vacation (サッド ヴァケイション) -- Aoyama Shinji -- 2007 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Very good film. It is about a man who is involved in trafficking of illegal immigrants from China. This man takes in a child that is left behind and the story unfolds. Many good actors, including Miyazaki Aoi and Asano Tadanobu, who provide good performances. Aoyama Shinji is a great director, and this is one of his better films.
Shindo (神童) -- Hagiuda Koji -- 2007 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ A film about child prodigies. Acting, especially by Narumi Riko--who is an acting prodigy herself--is very good. Enjoyable to watch.
Thoughts~ Very good film. It is about a man who is involved in trafficking of illegal immigrants from China. This man takes in a child that is left behind and the story unfolds. Many good actors, including Miyazaki Aoi and Asano Tadanobu, who provide good performances. Aoyama Shinji is a great director, and this is one of his better films.
Shindo (神童) -- Hagiuda Koji -- 2007 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ A film about child prodigies. Acting, especially by Narumi Riko--who is an acting prodigy herself--is very good. Enjoyable to watch.
Tears for You (涙そうそう) -- Doi Nobuhiro -- 2006 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ I love this movie. Not many movies have moved me to tears, but this one did. Tsumabuki Satoshi's acting was incredible as usual and Nagasawa Masami fit her role pretty well. Their chemistry was great. The story could have developed a bit more, or been more deep, but all-in-all the film left a strong impression on me.
Thoughts~ I love this movie. Not many movies have moved me to tears, but this one did. Tsumabuki Satoshi's acting was incredible as usual and Nagasawa Masami fit her role pretty well. Their chemistry was great. The story could have developed a bit more, or been more deep, but all-in-all the film left a strong impression on me.
Noriko's Dinner Table (紀子の食卓) -- Sion Sono -- 2005 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ A dark film dealing with mass suicide and the influence of the internet. Very long movie. Yoshitaka Yuriko is great as the sister, but I found Fukiishi Kazue a weak actress. My first Sono film. Recommended.
Linda Linda Linda (リンダ リンダ リンダ) -- Yamashita Nobuhiro -- 2005 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Depicts the struggles high school students face. A couple of girls form a band, learn, love, and find friendship. Feel-good movie with great acting.
Nana (ナナ) -- Otani Kentaro -- 2005 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Love this movie, although it is not perfect. Nakashima Mika and Miyazaki Aoi are perfect for their characters (they resemble the characters that they are based on from the manga perfectly) and the supporting cast is composed of some well-known actors (like Narimiya Hiroki and Matsuyama Kenichi). The music is great--especially Ito Yuna's song Endless Story, which was absolutely perfect for the scene in which it was featured. Watch this film, but avoid Nana 2.
A Day on the Planet (きょうのできごと) -- Yukisada Isao -- 2004 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Once in a while I am pleasantly surprised by how much I am drawn into a film. This is a good example of that. I really like this movie. It is an examination of life and human interaction. Tsumabuki Satoshi and Tanaka Rena stuck out to me; I like them both. A very well directed and well thought out film. Even though it was slowly paced and exceedingly draggy in some parts, I could see it no differently. Great film making. Yukisada Isao's films are usually hit or miss with me--this one was definitely hit.
The Place Promised in Our Early Days (雲のむこう、約束の場所) -- Shinkai Makoto -- 2004 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ *Anime film* Like 5 Centimeters per Second, this film is absolutely beautiful. The story deals with Japan in an alternate universe, where the country was split into two after WWII, with the U.S. occupying one half and the Soviet Union occupying the other. It follows the story of three friends who are fascinated by the huge tower built by the Soviets in Hokkaido. Good story of exploration and friendship.
69-Sixty Nine (IMDb link) -- Lee Sang-il -- 2004 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Japanese teen movie with vandalism, crazy kids, big dreams, and horny teens. Takes place in 1969. Tsumabuki Satoshi and the rest of the cast do a pretty good job, although the dialect spoken in the movie (Kagoshima-ben?) is quite strange to me. 69 is a really fun movie to watch, definitely re watchable.
Josee, the Tiger and the Fish (ジョゼと虎と魚たち) -- Inudou Isshin -- 2003 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ A beautiful film that shows the painful relationship between an ordinary college student (Tsumabuki Satoshi) and a disabled girl (Ikewaki Chizuru). Both performances were great. The film is a bit of a dark comedy, though it is very uniquely done. A deep movie that will make you think.
Bright Future (アカルイミライ) -- Kurosawa Kiyoshi -- 2003 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Unique, dark film starring Asano Tadanobu and Odagiri Joe. These two are both incredibly prolific actors--they star in so many films. Odagiri Joe was great, showing much range and depth, but I found Asano to be quite dull and boring. I remember pondering this film for a while after watching it.
Blue Light (青の炎) -- Ninagawa Yukio -- 2003 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Ninomiya Kazunari's (from the ultra-popular boy band Arashi) breakout role. He was perfect in this film as a high school boy dealing with his abusive stepfather who pesters his family. Good, well-done, edge-of-your-seat movie.
Thoughts~ A dark film dealing with mass suicide and the influence of the internet. Very long movie. Yoshitaka Yuriko is great as the sister, but I found Fukiishi Kazue a weak actress. My first Sono film. Recommended.
Linda Linda Linda (リンダ リンダ リンダ) -- Yamashita Nobuhiro -- 2005 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Depicts the struggles high school students face. A couple of girls form a band, learn, love, and find friendship. Feel-good movie with great acting.
Nana (ナナ) -- Otani Kentaro -- 2005 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Love this movie, although it is not perfect. Nakashima Mika and Miyazaki Aoi are perfect for their characters (they resemble the characters that they are based on from the manga perfectly) and the supporting cast is composed of some well-known actors (like Narimiya Hiroki and Matsuyama Kenichi). The music is great--especially Ito Yuna's song Endless Story, which was absolutely perfect for the scene in which it was featured. Watch this film, but avoid Nana 2.
A Day on the Planet (きょうのできごと) -- Yukisada Isao -- 2004 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Once in a while I am pleasantly surprised by how much I am drawn into a film. This is a good example of that. I really like this movie. It is an examination of life and human interaction. Tsumabuki Satoshi and Tanaka Rena stuck out to me; I like them both. A very well directed and well thought out film. Even though it was slowly paced and exceedingly draggy in some parts, I could see it no differently. Great film making. Yukisada Isao's films are usually hit or miss with me--this one was definitely hit.
The Place Promised in Our Early Days (雲のむこう、約束の場所) -- Shinkai Makoto -- 2004 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ *Anime film* Like 5 Centimeters per Second, this film is absolutely beautiful. The story deals with Japan in an alternate universe, where the country was split into two after WWII, with the U.S. occupying one half and the Soviet Union occupying the other. It follows the story of three friends who are fascinated by the huge tower built by the Soviets in Hokkaido. Good story of exploration and friendship.
69-Sixty Nine (IMDb link) -- Lee Sang-il -- 2004 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Japanese teen movie with vandalism, crazy kids, big dreams, and horny teens. Takes place in 1969. Tsumabuki Satoshi and the rest of the cast do a pretty good job, although the dialect spoken in the movie (Kagoshima-ben?) is quite strange to me. 69 is a really fun movie to watch, definitely re watchable.
Josee, the Tiger and the Fish (ジョゼと虎と魚たち) -- Inudou Isshin -- 2003 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ A beautiful film that shows the painful relationship between an ordinary college student (Tsumabuki Satoshi) and a disabled girl (Ikewaki Chizuru). Both performances were great. The film is a bit of a dark comedy, though it is very uniquely done. A deep movie that will make you think.
Bright Future (アカルイミライ) -- Kurosawa Kiyoshi -- 2003 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Unique, dark film starring Asano Tadanobu and Odagiri Joe. These two are both incredibly prolific actors--they star in so many films. Odagiri Joe was great, showing much range and depth, but I found Asano to be quite dull and boring. I remember pondering this film for a while after watching it.
Blue Light (青の炎) -- Ninagawa Yukio -- 2003 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Ninomiya Kazunari's (from the ultra-popular boy band Arashi) breakout role. He was perfect in this film as a high school boy dealing with his abusive stepfather who pesters his family. Good, well-done, edge-of-your-seat movie.
Dolls (ドールズ) -- Kitano Takeshi -- 2002 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ This movie deserves multiple viewings. I'm still not sure about the film. Dolls is definitely a film festival film. It is beautiful, accompanied by awesome music and good acting (I wish Kanno Miho was more active...). There is heavy use of symbolism in the film, which adds to the deepness of the message that Dolls is attempting to get across. I don't fully comprehend the film yet, but it is definitely a masterful work of art. Decide for yourself.
Blue Spring (青い春) -- Toyoda Toshiaki -- 2001 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ High school bad boy/violence film. Really good! The acting is all around great, the music is superb, and the filming is quite good. This film deals with problems that high school students have on an extreme level. The opening scene is one of the best I have seen in a film. Miike's Crows Zero is similar to this film, but focuses much more on fighting than delivering a message. Watch it for an entertaining two hours.
Audition (オーディション) -- Miike Takashi -- 1999 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ A very artistic, well-done horror film. Audition is a slow and mysterious film in which everything is a build up to the last 20 minutes, which consists of some very disturbing torture. I will forever be haunted by the creepy voice of the girl... "Kiri, Kiri, Kiri..." In my opinion, this is a horror masterpiece.
Thoughts~ This movie deserves multiple viewings. I'm still not sure about the film. Dolls is definitely a film festival film. It is beautiful, accompanied by awesome music and good acting (I wish Kanno Miho was more active...). There is heavy use of symbolism in the film, which adds to the deepness of the message that Dolls is attempting to get across. I don't fully comprehend the film yet, but it is definitely a masterful work of art. Decide for yourself.
Blue Spring (青い春) -- Toyoda Toshiaki -- 2001 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ High school bad boy/violence film. Really good! The acting is all around great, the music is superb, and the filming is quite good. This film deals with problems that high school students have on an extreme level. The opening scene is one of the best I have seen in a film. Miike's Crows Zero is similar to this film, but focuses much more on fighting than delivering a message. Watch it for an entertaining two hours.
Audition (オーディション) -- Miike Takashi -- 1999 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ A very artistic, well-done horror film. Audition is a slow and mysterious film in which everything is a build up to the last 20 minutes, which consists of some very disturbing torture. I will forever be haunted by the creepy voice of the girl... "Kiri, Kiri, Kiri..." In my opinion, this is a horror masterpiece.
Swallowtail Butterfly (スワロウテイル) -- Iwai Shunji -- 1996 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ A film considered a masterpiece by many. It is a deep film that deals with many social issues such as the hardship felt by foreigners in Japan. There are three main languages spoken in the film--English, Chinese, and Japanese--which adds to the feeling of "foreignness" in many ways. Acting is excellent and cinematography is unique yet sometimes confusing (it was filmed entirely on handheld cameras). The movie is long, and while the first half drags a bit, the second half is magnificent. Iwai Shunji is a genius director and this is a great movie, but not my favorite of his.
Love Letter (情書) -- Iwai Shunji -- 1995 -- Rating: 8/10
Thoughts~ Iwai Shunji burst into the mainstream with this film. It is possibly one of the greatest love stories ever written, in my mind. Great music, cinematography, directing, and acting (Nakayama Miho is great in a double role). Too bad it lost its way a bit in the middle. Still, Love Letter is a multi-award winning film that became incredibly popular in Asia.
Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone (ヱヴァンゲリヲン新劇場版: 序) -- Anno Hideaki -- 2007 -- Rating: 7/10
Thoughts~ Really, really cool. Keep in mind, I have not watched the original anime series, but I loved this. Most criticism comes from fans of the original series. Check it out, it's a really cool futuristic and psychological film. The 4th highest grossing anime film at the Japanese box office in 2007.
