Tetsuro Tamba
Biography: Tetsuro Tamba (July 17, 1922 – September 24, 2006) was a distinguished Japanese actor known for his versatile talent across five decades. Recognized globally for his portrayal of Tiger Tanaka in the iconic 1967 James Bond film "You Only Live Twice," Tamba's cinematic journey was a remarkable blend of cultural bridges. Before embarking on his acting career, Tamba worked as an interpreter for the Allied Powers' Supreme Commander. Graduating from Chuo University in 1948, he later joined Shintoho company, making his debut in the film Satsujin Yougishain in 1951. Tamba's impact on Western audiences extended beyond Bond, with standout performances in films like Bridge to the Sun and The 7th Dawn. He earned acclaim in Japan as well, most notably as the lead in police dramas like Key Hunter and G-Men '75. His talents weren't confined to the screen alone. Tamba lent his voice to characters like the Cat King in Studio Ghibli's The Cat Returns and graced historical roles in television dramas, leaving an indelible mark on period pieces. In 2005, Tamba faced health challenges but continued to contribute until the end. Sadly, he passed away in Tokyo at 84 due to pneumonia on September 24, 2006. His legacy lives on through his son, actor Yoshitaka Tamba, while his last appearances in the 2005 Taiga drama Yoshitsune and the 2006 film Sinking of Japan remain a testament to his enduring impact on Japanese cinema and beyond.
Place of Birth: Not available
Birthday: July 17, 1922
Deathday: September 24, 2006
Popularity:
Known For
You Only Live Twice
1967-06-13
You Only Live Twice
Overview: A mysterious spacecraft captures Russian and American space capsules and brings the two superpowers to the brink of war. James Bond investigates the case in Japan and comes face to face with his archenemy Blofeld.
Genres: Action Thriller Adventure
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1967-06-13
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Minamoto Yoshitsune
1991-12-31
Minamoto Yoshitsune
Overview: During the late Heian era in Japan a famous duel took place between the warrior monk Musashibo Benkei and a slender young man of high rank named Shanao. This was the battle at Gojo Bridge, and while Benkei had taken 999 sword from his vanquished opponents, he was soundly defeated by the young flute-playing samurai. Swearing allegiance to the superior swordsman, Benkei became his loyal vassal and accompanied the young man who went on to fame as Minamoto Yoshitsune, the general who defeated the Taira clan at the Battle of Dan no Ura thus leading the Genji over the Heike as the most powerful clan in the nation. With superb performances by some of Japan's greatest stars, including Satomi Kotaro and Tanba Tetsuro, history comes to life in this action-packed production.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1991-12-31
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Kwaidan
1965-01-06
Kwaidan
Overview: Taking its title from an archaic Japanese word meaning "ghost story," this anthology adapts four folk tales. A penniless samurai marries for money with tragic results. A man stranded in a blizzard is saved by Yuki the Snow Maiden, but his rescue comes at a cost. Blind musician Hoichi is forced to perform for an audience of ghosts. An author relates the story of a samurai who sees another warrior's reflection in his teacup.
Genres: Horror Fantasy Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-01-06
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Operation Diamond
1962-12-09
Operation Diamond
Overview:
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-12-09
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Spycatcher J3: SOS Close Shave
1966-08-03
Spycatcher J3: SOS Close Shave
Overview: TULIP (The Undercover Line of International Police) is a New York-based international police force in direct opposition to the criminal organization TIGER (The International Group of Espionage and Revolt). Shunsuke Dan is agent Spycatcher J3 of the TULIP Japan Branch. Spycatcher J3 stands against TIGER's machinations.
Genres: Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-08-03
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Pigs and Battleships
1961-01-21
Pigs and Battleships
Overview: In the city of Yokosuka, Kinta and his lover Haruko, both involved with yakuza, brave the post-occupation period with a goal to be together.
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-01-21
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Tokyo Gang Vs. Hong Kong Gang
1964-01-01
Tokyo Gang Vs. Hong Kong Gang
Overview:
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-01-01
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Demon Pond
2005-05-25
Demon Pond
Overview: The modern-day story of a man searching for a friend who has mysteriously disappeared, with a magical tale involving strange creatures, a heartbroken princess, and a pact that can't be broken. Conflicts between faith and skepticism, and between social obligation and personal desire drive the narrative toward a dramatic conclusion where the worlds of the real and the surreal inevitabl
Genres: Fantasy Science Fiction
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2005-05-25
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South Pacific Waves Are High
1962-01-09
South Pacific Waves Are High
Overview: 1962 Japanese movie
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-01-09
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Gozu
2003-07-11
Gozu
Overview: Minami mistakenly kills a gangster associate of his named Brother. Almost as soon as the murder takes place, the body of the deceased man is gone, prompting Minami to conduct a search. While looking, he finds a mysterious isolated hotel where he decides to take a rest. Not only are the front desk clerks a bit strange, but even the ambiance feels unusual. Minami soon realizes he may have gotten more than he bargained for.
Genres: Crime Thriller Horror Mystery
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2003-07-11
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The Wolves
1971-10-30
The Wolves
Overview: After going to prison for killing the boss of the Kanno gang, Seji Iwahashi (Tatsuya Nakadai) gets released early -- only to find that his former gang has merged with the Kannos. But with bitter resentments lingering on both sides, how long will it be before the bloodshed begins anew? Set in 1926 Japan, this serpentine crime thriller from director Hideo Gosha also stars Toshio Kurosawa and Isao Natsuyagi as Iwahashi's closest ally.
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1971-10-30
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King of Pornography
1971-05-02
King of Pornography
Overview: Dumb Tatsuo Umemiya / Shingo Yamashiro comedy about a young bloke whose dick grows to inhuman dimensions (obviously a role tailor made for star Umemiya's ego). He visits a doctor, impresses ladies and opens a porn shop before running afoul with yakuza...
Genres: Drama Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1971-05-02
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The Castle of Sand
1974-10-19
The Castle of Sand
Overview: Two detectives are tasked to investigate the murder of an old man, found bludgeoned to death in a Tokyo rail yard.
Genres: Crime Mystery Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1974-10-19
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Deadly Outlaw: Rekka
2002-09-21
Deadly Outlaw: Rekka
Overview: After Kunisada's Yakuza leader and father figure is brutally murdered, he and his best friend go on a two-man mission to avenge his death, killing other Yakuza leaders leading to a final confrontation by the old man's killers.
Genres: Action Drama Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2002-09-21
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Hawk of the Harbour
1967-08-12
Hawk of the Harbour
Overview: A Nikkatsu Action film with Yujiro Ishihara as the head of a small shipping company who gets harassed by the yakuza.
Genres: Action Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-08-12
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Tokyo Untouchable
1962-10-21
Tokyo Untouchable
Overview:
Genres: Crime Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-10-21
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The Cat Returns
2002-07-19
The Cat Returns
Overview: Young Haru rescues a cat from being run over, but soon learns it's no ordinary feline; it happens to be the Prince of the Cats.
Genres: Adventure Fantasy Animation Drama Family
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2002-07-19
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長七郎江戸日記スペシャル 長七郎 大奥まかり通る
1989-04-04
長七郎江戸日記スペシャル 長七郎 大奥まかり通る
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1989-04-04
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The Water Margin
1972-03-17
The Water Margin
Overview: The corruption in the Sung Dynasty of 11th century China is so rampant that it inspires a band of Oriental Robin Hoods - the Honorable 108. Mountain bandits who nevertheless live by a scrupulous code of conduct, the Honorable 108 pledge to end the repression of the brutal overlords.
Genres: Action Drama
Original Language: zh
Release Date: 1972-03-17
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13 Assassins
1990-03-28
13 Assassins
Overview: In between the original 1963 13 ASSASSINS film and the 2010 remake by Miike Takashi, Fuji TV produced a version for TV. Starring Nakadai Tatsuya and Natsuyagi Isao, with strong support from Tanba Tetsuro and Tanaka Ken, this is the ultimate tale of samurai justice carried out in a historical masterpiece. The shogun’s half-brother, Matsudaira Naritsugu has been slated to join the Roju Council of Elders as a senior adviser even though he is criminally insane. His outrageous acts cause one of his top retainers to commit ritual suicide in protest over his lord’s crimes. Alerted to these crimes, Roju Councilor Doi asks Inspector General Shmada Shinzaemon to assassinate Naritsugu before he can be seated on the council. Gathering a band of 13 (including himself), Shimada sets out on a death-defying journey to cut down the lord before he can reach Edo. Can a band of 13 samurai defeat the vile Naritsugu’s 200 man entourage and enact justice against his cruelty?
Genres: Action Drama History TV Movie
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1990-03-28
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Zero Woman: Red Handcuffs
1974-05-21
Zero Woman: Red Handcuffs
Overview: Agent Zero is a cop that uses her own methods for dealing with criminals. After she unlawfully kills a rapist in a violent fashion, she is sent to prison and stripped of her badge. But very soon after, a rich politician's daughter is kidnapped by a ruthless gang. Agent Zero is let out of prison with the mission of going undercover to find the politician's daughter and return her safely. Using her deadly red handcuffs, she disposes of the criminals one by one.
Genres: Thriller Action Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1974-05-21
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Under the Flag of the Rising Sun
1972-03-12
Under the Flag of the Rising Sun
Overview: A war widow determined to clear the name of her disgraced husband, who was court-martialed for desertion and executed. Official records have been destroyed, and the ministry that distributes benefits continues to deny her a pension. Twenty-six years after the war, she seeks out four survivors of her husband's garrison. Each tells a dramatically different story about her husband's conduct, but she is determined to learn the truth.
Genres: Drama Mystery War
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1972-03-12
Popularity:
Futari dake no toride
1963-03-24
Futari dake no toride
Overview: Futari dake no toride
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-03-24
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The Happiness of the Katakuris
2002-02-23
The Happiness of the Katakuris
Overview: The Katakuri family has just opened their guest house in the mountains. Unfortunately their first guest commits suicide and in order to avoid trouble they decide to bury him in the backyard. Things get way more complicated when their second guest, a famous sumo wrestler, dies while having sex with his underage girlfriend and the grave behind the house starts to fill up more and more.
Genres: Comedy Drama Horror
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2002-02-23
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Hunter in the Dark
1979-06-17
Hunter in the Dark
Overview: Yataro Tanigawa, a one-eyed hired assassin, impresses yakuza boss Gomyo Kiyoemon with his skill. Gomyo hires Tanigawa as his bodyguard, or yojimbo, to protect him during an inter-clan conflict. Tanigawa quickly rises in stature in the clan, but finds his boss's enemies almost overwhelming.
Genres: Action Adventure Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1979-06-17
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Cherry Blossoms in the Air - The Suicide Raiders - Oh, Buddies!
1970-05-16
Cherry Blossoms in the Air - The Suicide Raiders - Oh, Buddies!
Overview: In 1943 Japan is facing defeat. This makes Shinkichi, a straight, selfless student-patriot, ever more restless. He can no longer stand his soft "behind-the- gun" role of munition factory worker. School-mates one after another are going to the front, where he feels he should be. The last straw is an official report of his father's death in the Battle of Attu in the Aleutian Islands. He rushes to the naval air corps training camp at Tsuchiura along with his close school-mates Naito, Yamada, Saito and Tagawa as Volunteer pilot trainees leaving his mother and sweetheart weeping and helpless.
Genres: Drama War
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-05-16
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The 5-Man Army
1969-10-16
The 5-Man Army
Overview: At the behest of local revolutionaries, a mercenary enlists four specialists in various combat styles to help him rob a Mexican Army train carrying $500,000 in gold.
Genres: Western
Original Language: it
Release Date: 1969-10-16
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Riki-Oh: The Story of Ricky
1991-10-05
Riki-Oh: The Story of Ricky
Overview: In 2001, where all correctional facilities have been privatized, martial artist Ricky finds himself victim to the corrupt system, found "guilty" of the manslaughter of an infamous crime boss.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: cn
Release Date: 1991-10-05
Popularity:
Violent Streets
1974-04-13
Violent Streets
Overview: With a Kansai syndicate setting their sights on Tokyo, a former yakuza boss gets dragged back into a world of violence.
Genres: Crime Drama Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1974-04-13
Popularity:
Samurai Spy
1965-07-10
Samurai Spy
Overview: Years of warfare end in a Japan unified under the Tokugawa shogunate, and samurai spy Sasuke Sarutobi, tired of conflict, longs for peace. When a high-ranking spy named Tatewaki Koriyama defects from the shogun to a rival clan, however, the world of swordsmen is thrown into turmoil. After Sasuke is unwittingly drawn into the conflict, he tracks Tatewaki, while a mysterious, white-hooded figure seems to hunt them both. By tale’s end, no one is who they seemed to be, and the truth is far more personal than anyone suspected. Director Masahiro Shinoda’s Samurai Spy, filled with clan intrigue, ninja spies, and multiple double crosses, marks a bold stylistic departure from swordplay film convention.
Genres: Action Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-07-10
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Goyokin
1969-05-01
Goyokin
Overview: A guilt-haunted samurai warrior attempts to stop a massacre taking place.
Genres: Drama Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-05-01
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The Peking Man
1997-12-20
The Peking Man
Overview: In 1929 the fossil of a 500,000 year old man is discovered in China. In 1941 the Japanese army confiscates this find, but during the war the remains disappear. Based on these factual events, this movie takes off with a science fiction story involving a space rocket which places a satellite in orbit containing a secret cargo. The satellite crashes on a remote island and footprints are found in the sand leading away from the crash site. A story of how an ancient primitive cave-dwelling family contends with the scientists who want to study them.
Genres: Science Fiction
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1997-12-20
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Gamblers: The Dragon Tattoo
1967-05-03
Gamblers: The Dragon Tattoo
Overview: The second part of the Gamblers series.
Genres: Drama Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-05-03
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Hibari no san'yaku: Kei tsuya yuki no jôhenge
1957-11-17
Hibari no san'yaku: Kei tsuya yuki no jôhenge
Overview:
Genres: History Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1957-11-17
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Hibari no san'yaku: Zoku Kei tsuya yuki no jôhenge
1957-11-23
Hibari no san'yaku: Zoku Kei tsuya yuki no jôhenge
Overview:
Genres: History Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1957-11-23
Popularity:
Tetsuro Tamba's Great Spirit World 2: I was surprised when I died!!
1990-01-13
Tetsuro Tamba's Great Spirit World 2: I was surprised when I died!!
Overview: The second installment of the spirit world guide movie based on the original idea of Tetsuro Tamba, made after the hit of the previous work. Depicts the world after death seen by a man who was sentenced to death for murdering his wife and sent to heaven.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1990-01-13
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Tetsuro Tamba’s Great Spiritual World 3: Amazing Reincarnation Story That Ran Around the Whole
1994-07-13
Tetsuro Tamba’s Great Spiritual World 3: Amazing Reincarnation Story That Ran Around the Whole
Overview: At the end of the Edo period, nine-year-old Katsugoro told his older sister that he was the reincarnation of Tozo, who had died in a neighboring village. A live-action adaptation of Koizumi Yakumo's "Katsugoro Saisei Ki", which is based on a reincarnation incident that is also recorded in the official documents of the Edo magistrate's office.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1994-07-13
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The Political Game
1989-05-03
The Political Game
Overview: This is James Miki's first directorial work, and he is also the original writer and scriptwriter. Noritaka Sakamoto was in charge of photography, and Kentaro Haneda was in charge of music direction. It depicts how an honest candidate aiming for a clean election campaign gradually collapses in the face of various realities. Kiyokawa, the mayor of Higurashi City, died at his lover's house. Yoshihiko announces that he will conduct a clean election campaign, but his sponsors and backers are reluctant.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1989-05-03
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Silence
1971-11-13
Silence
Overview: Two Jesuit priests encounter persecution when they travel to Japan in the 17th century to spread Christianity and search for their mentor.
Genres: Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1971-11-13
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Revenge
1964-11-01
Revenge
Overview: An innocuous comment during a weapon inspection wounds the pride of low-ranking samurai Shinpachi, leading to an argument with his superior. The situation snowballs out of control, leading to a deadly duel and political fallout which threatens the entire clan. Declared mentally unstable by the corrupt authority, Shinpachi begins his descent into true insanity…
Genres: Drama Thriller Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-11-01
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The Sound of the Waves
1985-10-10
The Sound of the Waves
Overview: Lonely youth Shinji meets Hatsue, a pretty pearl diver, on the beach and the two fall in love. But Shinji has a rival for Hatsue's affections, Yasuo. Yasuo spreads unpleasant gossip about his rival, and Hatsue's father forbids her to see Shinji. But when the boy saves the passengers on a boat owned by Hatsue's father, his luck in love begins to change. —Jim Beaver
Genres: Drama Romance
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1985-10-10
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The School Deviate Waru
1973-03-31
The School Deviate Waru
Overview:
Genres: Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1973-03-31
Popularity:
The 7th Dawn
1964-09-02
The 7th Dawn
Overview: Political and personal intrigues surround a group of characters in Malaya, after the close of the Second World War.
Genres: Adventure Drama War
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1964-09-02
Popularity:
Shadow Hunters 2: Echo of Destiny
1972-10-10
Shadow Hunters 2: Echo of Destiny
Overview: The great Daimyo enlists the aid of the three Shadow Hunters in ensuring the delivery of an illegal cannon in this sequel to Toshio Masuda's bloody adaptation of the manga by Takao Saito. Despite the Shadow Hunters's remarkable skill, this mission is no walk in the park, and in order to survive they must face a relentless army of ninjas and female warriors willing to sacrifice their lives to disrupt the delivery and claim the cannon for themselves.
Genres: Action Adventure Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1972-10-10
Popularity:
Bandits vs. Samurai Squadron
1978-07-01
Bandits vs. Samurai Squadron
Overview: Kumokiri Nizaemon, a former samurai warrior, has abandoned his class to become the leader of a gang of thieves. He leads his outlaws in an attempt to rob the castle of his former clan.
Genres: Action Adventure Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1978-07-01
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Shadow Hunters
1972-06-10
Shadow Hunters
Overview: Set during the declining years of the Tokugawa shogunate, Shadow Hunters details the questionably noble exploits of three ronin who act as "Shadow Hunters". These three ronin are not your normal ornery ruffians who are looking for a drink, a broad and someone to jab a sword into, but are in fact former samurai who, rather than follow their destroyed fiefs and murdered masters into death via seppuku, have dedicated their combined sword prowess to stopping the government from raping its daimyos for valuable resources.
Genres: Action Adventure Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1972-06-10
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Three Outlaw Samurai
1964-05-13
Three Outlaw Samurai
Overview: Shiba, a wandering ronin, encounters a band of peasants who have kidnapped the daughter of their dictatorial magistrate, in hopes of coercing from him a reduction in taxes. Shiba takes up their fight, joined by two renegades from the magistrate's guard, Sakura and Kikyo. The three outlaws find themselves in a battle to the death.
Genres: Action Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-05-13
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Japanese Hell
1999-11-20
Japanese Hell
Overview: From the king of the Japanese cult movie, Teruo Ishii! A controversial film in which actual cases that rocked modern-day Japan—including the sarin gas attack by the Aum Shinrikyo Cult—are dramatized with gruesome detail as their perpetrators stand trial in Hell. An angst-ridden girl, Rika, is carried off to Hell by an old woman she meets in a neighborhood park. There she gets a first-hand look at the excruciating agony of those found guilty—by Lucifer himself—of committing heinous crimes during their time on Earth.
Genres: Horror
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1999-11-20
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The Executioner II: Karate Inferno
1974-12-28
The Executioner II: Karate Inferno
Overview: When a priceless jewel owned by rich heiress Sabine is stolen, along with her daughter, Professional thief and hired killer Ryuichi Koga and his gang are hired to retrieve both. At a ransom exchange, the team save the girl but lose the money and the jewel. When Sabine decides to deal directly with the thieves and obtains the jewel on her own by paying the ransom, Koga, having been stiffed of his fee by Sabine, steals the jewel. Little does he know, it’s a fake. Now, Koga and the team must break into a high security bank to steal the real jewel.
Genres: Action Comedy Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1974-12-28
Popularity:
Assassination
1964-07-04
Assassination
Overview: Assassination begins with the events of 1853 when "four black ships" anchored at Edo Bay, sparking civil unrest and the major political manoeuvring that saw the end of the Tokugawa Shogunate. At a time when assassination had become a disturbing political tool, Shinoda's film follows Hachiro Kiyokawa, an ambitious, masterless samurai whose allegiances drift dangerously between the Shogunate and the Emperor.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-07-04
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Devil Princess’ Beauty Competition
1956-12-28
Devil Princess’ Beauty Competition
Overview: An exciting historical drama in which a beautiful woman secretly solves the family problems of the Owari clan. Hibari Misora plays two roles: a charming princess and a dashing youngster, performs songs and dances throughout the film until the big decisive battle.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1956-12-28
Popularity:
Submersion of Japan
1973-12-29
Submersion of Japan
Overview: A team of geophysicists investigating seismic activity on the seafloor discover that the islands of Japan, after suffering from massive volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, will be pulled into the ocean, killing millions.
Genres: Thriller Science Fiction Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1973-12-29
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Bohachi Bushido: Code of the Forgotten Eight
1973-02-03
Bohachi Bushido: Code of the Forgotten Eight
Overview: A Ronin with a death wish reluctantly joins the Clan of the Forgotten Eight, a nasty crew of ronin who are wrapped up in a clan war over local prostitution.
Genres: Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1973-02-03
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Umineko ga tonde
1962-12-05
Umineko ga tonde
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-12-05
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Blackmail Is My Life
1968-02-28
Blackmail Is My Life
Overview: Though he has come from a rough background on the streets, Muraki quickly rises through the ranks by means of his well-honed blackmailing instincts. Desperate to keep rolling with his freewheeling lifestyle, Muraki sees his luck begin to crumble when he sets his sights on the business partners of a powerful gang boss.
Genres: Thriller Crime Drama Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-02-28
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Samon’s Hell Revenge: Unauthorised Jutte Records 2 - The Assassination of the Shogun
1983-01-21
Samon’s Hell Revenge: Unauthorised Jutte Records 2 - The Assassination of the Shogun
Overview: Samon Kamiyama, a yoriki of the Minami-machi magistrate infiltrates the Denzū-machi prison disguised as Mushuku Sahēji. Samon is mistaken for a snitch and about to be beaten up when he was saved by the quick thinking of a ferryman Sanji. The infiltration is the plan of Samon and chief elder Abe Isenokami, who has asked Samon to obtain smuggling evidence against shipping whole retailers Kawachiya Senemon and his son Sennosuke.
Genres: Action Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1983-01-21
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Tokugawa Ieyasu – TBS Warlord Special
1988-07-12
Tokugawa Ieyasu – TBS Warlord Special
Overview: From his early days as Matsudaira Motoyasu through his rise to the most powerful man in Japan as Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first of the Tokugawa Shoguns, this is the story of the man who truly unified Japan under one ruler. Tokugawa Ieyasu is quoted as saying: “People carry burdens through life as they travel a long road. Never rush” “If you think of privation as normal, you’ll be contented. If you know only about winning and losing, harm may fall upon you. Being inferior is batter than being superior.” These writing reflected the beliefs and military strategy of Ieyasu, a man before his time who was destined to take over the entire country in order to ensure the safety of his children.
Genres: War Action Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1988-07-12
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Screwed
1998-06-17
Screwed
Overview: It has been two years since unsuccessful cartoonist Tsube started to live with Kuniko casually in a small apartment.
Genres: Drama Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1998-06-17
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The Villain from Edo Kochiyama Soshun
1982-07-23
The Villain from Edo Kochiyama Soshun
Overview: Kotiyama is a swindler and extortionist, the head of a whole gang of crooks, usually posing as a poor monk; once he really took vows, but he was kicked out of the monastery long ago. He is enterprising, smart and not too cruel, so his accomplices love him. Posing as an envoy from the abbot of the Kennei Temple, Kotiama plays a show in front of Lord Matsue with an income of 150,000 koku, and extorts money from him. The film is based on the famous play by Kawatake Mokuami.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1982-07-23
Popularity:
Mount Hakkoda
1977-06-04
Mount Hakkoda
Overview: Two infantry regiments of the Imperial Japanese Army—210 men overall—tackled Mt. Hakkoda in the winter of 1902 to prepare for war with Russia.
Genres: Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1977-06-04
Popularity:
Heat Wave
1991-02-09
Heat Wave
Overview: Rin Jyoshima lost her father to death-by-gambling; years later, she's grown up in the Kosugi household and has fallen victim to gambling herself.
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1991-02-09
Popularity:
Twilight Saloon
1955-06-19
Twilight Saloon
Overview: Set in a tavern, director Tomu Uchida depicts the joys and sorrows of the people who gather there in an experimental style, weaving in a variety of music in this ambitious ensemble drama.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1955-06-19
Popularity:
Aurora Borealis
1990-08-03
Aurora Borealis
Overview: The story of a man and a wolf-dog in East Siberia during the early 1900s.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ru
Release Date: 1990-08-03
Popularity:
Bridge to the Sun
1961-10-17
Bridge to the Sun
Overview: Tells the true story of American Gwen Terasaki, who falls in love with, then marries a Japanese diplomat. When World War II breaks out they encounter animosity and trouble from both sides.
Genres: Drama Romance War
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1961-10-17
Popularity:
The Tale of Genji
1991-12-27
The Tale of Genji
Overview: TV movie based on the novel "The Tale of Genji" by Murasaki Shikibu, which tells about the life of Prince Hikaru Genji, who was nicknamed "Shining" by people for his dazzling noble beauty. In 1991, to commemorate the 40th anniversary of TBS' founding, it was released with a total production value of around 1.2 billion yen and aired in two parts.
Genres: Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1991-12-27
Popularity:
The Tale of Saikaido
1983-09-30
The Tale of Saikaido
Overview: Set in the Kyushu area of the Edo period. This is a large-length bizarre story that incorporates elements such as mysteries and adventures surrounding hidden gold mines.
Genres: Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1983-09-30
Popularity:
Prophecies of Nostradamus
1974-08-03
Prophecies of Nostradamus
Overview: Professor Nishiyama, after studying and interpreting the prophecies of Nostradamus, realizes that the end of the world is at hand. Unfortunately, nobody listens to him until it is too late. As the effects of mankind's tampering of the earth - radioactive smog clouds, hideously mutated animals, destruction of the ozone layer - rage out of control, the world leaders hurtle blindly toward the final confrontation. The film sparked controversy in Japan and was subsequently pulled out of circulation, with no official video release of the uncut film.
Genres: Drama Action Science Fiction
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1974-08-03
Popularity:
Zero Fighter
1976-10-02
Zero Fighter
Overview:
Genres: Drama War Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1976-10-02
Popularity:
Crimson Bat - Oichi: Wanted, Dead or Alive
1970-04-08
Crimson Bat - Oichi: Wanted, Dead or Alive
Overview: Oichi the Blind helps a woman escape the clutches of a high government official to go off with the man she loves. The official puts a reward on her head of fifty gold pieces and soon a menagerie of bounty hunters are after her skin. Three of them band together to accomplish this, one an expert swordsman, another a huge judo master and the third is deadly with a chain. To escape, she heads for the fishing town of Itso but soon comes face to face with Sankuro, the swordsman...
Genres: Action Adventure Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-04-08
Popularity:
Ino Tadataka: Meridian dreams
2001-11-17
Ino Tadataka: Meridian dreams
Overview: Biographical story, based on life of Ino Tadataka, a Japanese measurer and cartographer. Ino Tadataka travelled the length and breadth of Japan on foot for 17 years from the age of 55 to perform his surveys. The accuracy of his maps also owed much to the fact that he was the first surveyor in Japan to combine measurements on the ground with observations of the heavens. Ino started the work as a private individual but earned the confidence of the Shogunate and it eventually turned into a national project. His maps were later used for many years as the foundation for maps made by modern survey techniques.
Genres: History Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2001-11-17
Popularity:
Ankoku gai jingi
1965-06-13
Ankoku gai jingi
Overview: A big American boss landed in Japan in search of funding sources. A lone wolf trying to stop it ends up fighting against his big brother's organization and emerging powers. A huge gangster story depicting a three-way turf war on a large scale.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-06-13
Popularity:
Zankokuna tsuki
1962-05-27
Zankokuna tsuki
Overview: 1962 Japanese movie
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-05-27
Popularity:
The White Tiger Battalion
1986-08-25
The White Tiger Battalion
Overview: The Byakkotai was part of Aizu’s four-unit military, set up in the domain’s drive to finalize its military modernization, in the wake of the Battle of Toba-Fushimi. The other three units were Genbutai, Seiryūtai, and Suzakutai. Each of the four was named after the protecting gods of compass directions. Byakkotai was meant to be a reserve unit, as it was composed of the young teenage 16 to 17 year old sons of Aizu samurai in a group of around 350, who fought in the Boshin War (1868–1869).
Genres: History Adventure Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1986-08-25
Popularity:
The Scandalous Adventures of Buraikan
1970-04-18
The Scandalous Adventures of Buraikan
Overview: An outlaw pushes the residents of Edo's red light district to rebel against a growing number of stifling, moralistic laws.
Genres: Comedy Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-04-18
Popularity:
Dai shinrin ni mukatte tatsu
1961-09-23
Dai shinrin ni mukatte tatsu
Overview: Strife between competing lumber mills.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-09-23
Popularity:
Shōwa Gokudōshi
1972-06-15
Shōwa Gokudōshi
Overview:
Genres: Action Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1972-06-15
Popularity:
Kuronekokan ni Kieta Otoko
1956-02-12
Kuronekokan ni Kieta Otoko
Overview: Comedy-horror film by Masaki Môri.
Genres: Comedy Horror Music
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1956-02-12
Popularity:
Detective
1964-12-05
Detective
Overview: The first film with Tetsuro Tamba as a detective. An exciting drama about the pursuit of a criminal, which takes place in Yokohama. Tamba enthusiastically plays a police inspector who pursues a criminal who kidnapped his sister.
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-12-05
Popularity:
Homicide
1964-06-20
Homicide
Overview: This film tells about the murder of Lieutenant Colonel Aikawa, the head of the Bureau of Military Affairs, about the beginning of the incident 2.26 and the execution of young officers.
Genres: Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-06-20
Popularity:
Hanran
1954-01-03
Hanran
Overview:
Genres: Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1954-01-03
Popularity:
Kōgen ni ressha ga hashitta
1984-09-29
Kōgen ni ressha ga hashitta
Overview: At a certain high school in Karuizawa, students relied on ordinary local trains for their commute, but with only seven trains running per day, missing one meant spending two or three hours killing time in town. This sparse train schedule on the Shinetsu Main Line
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1984-09-29
Popularity:
Men and War I: Prelude to Destiny
1970-08-14
Men and War I: Prelude to Destiny
Overview: The upstart Godai family conglomerate plans to strengthen ties with the hardliners in the Kwantung Army as they plan military expansion into Manchuria.
Genres: Drama War History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-08-14
Popularity:
A Taxing Woman's Return
1988-01-15
A Taxing Woman's Return
Overview: Ryōko Itakura returns as the tough-as-nails government taxing agent. This time she must figure out a way to expose a fanatical religious cult lead by a corrupt sociopath.
Genres: Comedy Mystery Thriller Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1988-01-15
Popularity:
Capone: Roppongi Renkin no Teio
2004-02-14
Capone: Roppongi Renkin no Teio
Overview: With the help of the real-life pachislot gambling group "Capone," the film depicts the friendship between a man who gambles and a man who lives in the underworld.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2004-02-14
Popularity:
Shogun's Shadow
1989-01-14
Shogun's Shadow
Overview: A shogun's eldest son must do whatever it takes to survive a series of attempts on his life. He receives much-needed aid from seven warriors who are led by a strong leader.
Genres: History Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1989-01-14
Popularity:
The Return of the Filthy Seven
1967-10-21
The Return of the Filthy Seven
Overview: A 1967 crime film
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-10-21
Popularity:
The Gambler
1965-07-10
The Gambler
Overview: A crime film released in 1965
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-07-10
Popularity:
Sky Scraper!
1969-05-14
Sky Scraper!
Overview: A film about the construction of the Kasumigaseki Building, the first high-rise building in Japan.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-05-14
Popularity:
Kizu-darake no futeki-sha
1963-03-09
Kizu-darake no futeki-sha
Overview: 1963 Japanese movie
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-03-09
Popularity:
Tokyo Untouchable: Escape
1963-03-15
Tokyo Untouchable: Escape
Overview:
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-03-15
Popularity:
The Code of Man
1968-02-13
The Code of Man
Overview: Tetsuya Watari, a modern youth idol, co-stars with Tetsuro Tamba for the first time, and a young man who survives freely is an action giant who swings down the iron arm of justice and anger toward evil
Genres: Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-02-13
Popularity:
Onimasa: A Japanese Godfather
1982-06-05
Onimasa: A Japanese Godfather
Overview: Onimasa is the egocentric boss of a small yakuza clan on Shikoku Island, whose criminal duties conflict with his self-image as a chivalrous samurai. His struggles with his boss, the Shikoku Godfather, and the tumultuous life of his adopted daughter, Matsue, form the backdrop of this epic tale of justice, obedience, and bloody vengeance.
Genres: Action Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1982-06-05
Popularity:
The Kingdom of Jirocho 3
1964-02-08
The Kingdom of Jirocho 3
Overview: The third part of the story about feudal boss Jirocho and his underlings.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-02-08
Popularity:
Shura Group
2002-02-16
Shura Group
Overview: Remake of The Story of a Man Among Men (1984)
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2002-02-16
Popularity:
Kim's War
1991-04-05
Kim's War
Overview: After shooting a gangster in self-defense, Kim Hui Ro takes refuge at a hotel and takes the guest hostages. Realising his position, he invites the press inside and explains why he was driven to his crime.
Genres: Drama History TV Movie Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1991-04-05
Popularity:
The Duel in the forbidden territory
1983-09-09
The Duel in the forbidden territory
Overview: The wandering swordsman, Ino Heihachiro, defeats Ichima, the youngest of the famed swordsmanship trio, the Nikis, but sustains an injury. In the mountains of Tohoku, he is aided by a young boy named Shosuke. Heihachiro finds refuge in the home of the boy's parents, Magoichi and Shino, only to discover that Magoichi was a skilled ninja from Koga. The peaceful days with the family are short-lived as Ichima, bent on revenge, along with his brothers Kurodo and Ryuma, pursue Heihachiro. Heihachiro and Magoichi head towards the duel's location, but the village headman, Seibei, blinded by the allure of gold dust in the mountains, abducts Shino...
Genres: Drama Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1983-09-09
Popularity:
Red Flowers of Hell
1961-05-03
Red Flowers of Hell
Overview: 1961 gangster film.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-05-03
Popularity:
Uragirimono wa jigoku daze
1962-12-23
Uragirimono wa jigoku daze
Overview: 1962 Japanese movie
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-12-23
Popularity:
Bond Girls Are Forever
2002-11-06
Bond Girls Are Forever
Overview: Through vintage film clips of past Bond movie epics, and with the participation of several former "Bond Girls" as interviewees (among them Dr. No's Ursula Andress and Diamonds Are Forever's Jill St. John), the documentary traces the evolution of the typical James Bond heroine from decorative damsel in distress to gutsy (but still decorative) participant in the action.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2002-11-06
Popularity:
The Exotic Locations of 'You Only Live Twice'
2006-10-04
The Exotic Locations of 'You Only Live Twice'
Overview: Maud Adams narrates a tour of the locations of You Only Live Twice.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2006-10-04
Popularity:
Continental Drifter
1966-06-19
Continental Drifter
Overview: Japanese crime film.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-06-19
Popularity:
Best Ever Bond
2002-11-22
Best Ever Bond
Overview: Roger Moore presents the ten best sequences ever to have appeared in the James Bond series, and cast members recall their favourite moments.
Genres: Documentary Action
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2002-11-22
Popularity:
Mysterious Clouds: Legend of Satomi's Heroic Deed
1957-01-09
Mysterious Clouds: Legend of Satomi's Heroic Deed
Overview: In the first year of Chōroku, Satomi Yoshimi, lord of Takita Castle in Awa, faces defeat by neighboring lord Anzai Kagesuren. As the castle nears collapse, Anzai demands a seed from Yoshimi’s lineage, specifically from his wife, Fushihime. Outraged but facing annihilation, Yoshimi gives Fushihime a string of eight ancestral beads and urges her to escape to loyal retainer Inuda Kobungo. Instead, she goes alone to Anzai, followed by her dog, Hachibo. In a twist, Hachibo attacks and kills Anzai, allowing Fushihime to escape. She later reveals that the beads protected her and predicts that eight warriors bearing these beads will someday defend the Satomi family before passing away. Yoshimi finds one of the beads in Inuzuka Nobuno’s armor and convinces her to serve him. Meanwhile, Baka Daiki, plotting to overthrow Satomi, imprisons Inukawa Shosuke, who tries to intervene, under the watch of vassal Aminen Saomojiro.
Genres: Horror History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1957-01-09
Popularity:
Element of Surprise
1963-09-21
Element of Surprise
Overview: 1963 Toei war / action film.
Genres: War Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-09-21
Popularity:
The Imperial Japanese Empire
1982-08-07
The Imperial Japanese Empire
Overview: Story of three people, a barber, a Christian and a graduate of the Tokyo Military Academy during the 2nd World War.
Genres: War
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1982-08-07
Popularity:
Zero
1984-08-11
Zero
Overview: Two young men are recruited into the Japanese air force just before outbreak of WW2 by the test pilot of Japans new super fighter - the Zero. The movie is told in reverse from the point of one of the young men who don't qualify for the pilot training and instead joins the ground crew. It chronicles the entire history of the famous fighter from the first prototype test flights all through the war.
Genres: War
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1984-08-11
Popularity:
Battle Anthem
1983-06-04
Battle Anthem
Overview: The story of Japan's victory in the battle of Tsushima Strait.
Genres: War History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1983-06-04
Popularity:
Monument to Holy Service
1978-09-23
Monument to Holy Service
Overview: A rural high school takes part in a mountain-climbing exercise and are caught in a sudden typhoon.
Genres: Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1978-09-23
Popularity:
Shura Group Part 1
2002-01-01
Shura Group Part 1
Overview: Denzaburo Kato, the third generation leader of the Horii family whose territory encompasses the Yokohama area, has a dramatic encounter at a certain judo hall with a young man who would later shake up Japan's yakuza society. The man's name is Ryuji Inahara, the future president of the Inahara-kai!
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2002-01-01
Popularity:
Shura Group Part 2
2002-11-25
Shura Group Part 2
Overview: Ryuji Inahara, the heir to the Atami Yamazakiya family, subsequently placed the group under the control of the influential members of the Guretai, known as the "Yokohama Four Heavenly Kings," and the Inahara group quickly expanded its influence from Yokohama to the Tokaido region. The world of yakuza then enters the era of Ryuji Inahara and Masao Tashiro, the third generation member of the Yamaga-gumi.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2002-11-25
Popularity:
剣聖 暁の三十六番斬り
1957-04-30
剣聖 暁の三十六番斬り
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1957-04-30
Popularity:
You're My Destiny
1987-11-16
You're My Destiny
Overview: Naomi, a corporate heiress from Japan, vacations to Hong Kong with her two colleagues. Bored, she sneaks out to visit the city and befriends a local rock band and, appreciative of the company, later helps the members with their debit issues. Meanwhile, Naomi's colleagues received news that the big boss of their company succumbed to a heart attack and that Naomi must sign a document to prevent the company from being turned over to a corrupt executive. The colleagues try to locate Naomi, just as a relationship develops between her and the band leader.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: cn
Release Date: 1987-11-16
Popularity:
Ronin on a Mission
1987-09-17
Ronin on a Mission
Overview: Mori Kojiro, a member of the Akō Ronin, fails to identify Kira Kozukenosuke before their attack and is publicly banished by Ōishi Kuranosuke. Ōishi later apologizes privately, revealing that Kira has a decoy and assigning Mori a secret mission to kill the real Kira if necessary. Devastated, Mori finds solace with Okame, a local bar owner. After the ronin avenge their master, Mori, believing their mission complete, plans to leave his samurai life for Okame. However, Terazaka Kichiemon reveals that Kira was not killed but fled, and the decapitated man was a decoy. Mori decides to complete his mission and hunt down the real Kira.
Genres: Action History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1987-09-17
Popularity:
雪夫人繪圖
1975-04-01
雪夫人繪圖
Overview: 1975 Toei movie.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1975-04-01
Popularity:
Seven Nights in Japan
1976-08-05
Seven Nights in Japan
Overview: Handsome Prince George arrives on board his ship in Japan. Youthful, immaculate in naval uniform and smiling broadly, he goes through the complicated formalities of being greeted by a host nation. But housed with the Ambassador and his family, the Prince finds the atmosphere stuffy and dull; he longs for freedom and, for once, rebels against his upbringing with all its constraints and responsibilities, escaping for a week of romance, and unexpected drama…
Genres: Comedy Drama
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1976-08-05
Popularity:
The Gambling Samurai
1960-03-28
The Gambling Samurai
Overview: Chuji Kunisada returns to his home village to find that Jubei Matsui, the corrupt magistrate, has been responsible for virtually destroying Kunisada's family. A final tragedy leads Kunisada to join with a band of rogues living in the forest in robbing from the rich and giving to the poor, always with an eye toward avenging himself on Magistrate Matsui.
Genres: Adventure Drama Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1960-03-28
Popularity:
Never Give Up
1978-10-07
Never Give Up
Overview: Special forces officer Ajisawa leaves his paramilitary group to take care of his newly-adopted daughter, Yoriko: the sole survival of a bloodbath for which he is responsible. Years later, Ajisawa is forced to return to the scene of the tragedy for his new job as a claims adjuster where he is subsequently arrested for his suspected involvement. But the threat of jail time is the least of his worries as his former organization comes gunning for him.
Genres: Drama Action Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1978-10-07
Popularity:
Battles Without Honor and Humanity
1973-01-13
Battles Without Honor and Humanity
Overview: In the teeming black markets of postwar Japan, Shozo Hirono and his buddies find themselves in a new war between factious and ambitious yakuza.
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1973-01-13
Popularity:
Battles Without Honor and Humanity: The Complete Saga
1980-04-05
Battles Without Honor and Humanity: The Complete Saga
Overview: The 224-minute compilation edition of Battles Without Honor and Humanity compiles these four movies: Battles Without Honor and Humanity, Deadly Fight in Hiroshima, Proxy War, Police Tactics.
Genres: Action Crime Drama Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1980-04-05
Popularity:
April Fish
1986-05-31
April Fish
Overview: A Francophile filmmaker in a creative rut tries to pass off a free-spirited young actress as his movie-star wife in order to fool a chief from the South Seas.
Genres: Comedy Drama Romance
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1986-05-31
Popularity:
Tokyo Blackout
1987-01-16
Tokyo Blackout
Overview: Based on a science-fiction novel by Sakyo Komatsu. Tokyo is suddenly covered by a dome shaped electromagnetic cloud for an unknown reason and is totally blocked and isolated from other parts of the world. The temperature inside the cloud is slowly increasing. The Soviet Pacific fleet is getting closer. The U.S. is forcing Japan to form a new government. Scientists and research workers outside Tokyo have to race against time to find out how to get through the cloud in order to rescue the 12,000,000+ lives in Tokyo and the fate of the country.
Genres: Science Fiction
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1987-01-16
Popularity:
Sakuya: The Slayer of Demons
2000-12-08
Sakuya: The Slayer of Demons
Overview: The eruption of Mt. Fuji in 1707 released hordes of demons from deep inside the earth. Sakuya, the young daughter of a samurai killed fighting these demons, accepts a mission to travel to Mt. Fuji and defeat the evil spirits. Accompanying her on her journey are two veteran warriors who served her father, and Tarō, a young kappa, or river spirit, whom she has adopted as her little brother. Along the way, the two warriors have doubts about Tarō’s loyalties, and the young kappa himself must decide if he will stand with his own species or with the humans who have cared for him.
Genres: Adventure Fantasy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2000-12-08
Popularity:
The Battle of Okinawa
1971-08-14
The Battle of Okinawa
Overview: The Americans are swiftly closing on Okinawa, an island just south of the Japanese mainland. The Imperial command sends top generals and several army divisions to defend it at all costs. The mission quickly degenerates as vital resources and troops are diverted to other islands. After a civilian evacuation ends in tragedy most of non-combatants are forced to remain on the island. Many convert to soldier status. Tokyo sends mixed messages that squander time and resources, as when they order the defenders to build an airstrip for aircraft that never come. The truth soon becomes obvious: the high command decides that the island cannot be held and effectively abandons the Okinawan defenders. When the Americans land many troops are deployed in the wrong places. As the slaughter mounts, a suicidal attitude takes hold. Okinawa becomes a death trap, for civilian volunteers and non-combatants as well.
Genres: War History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1971-08-14
Popularity:
There Goes Benio, the Smart Girl
1987-12-12
There Goes Benio, the Smart Girl
Overview: Benio, a peppy tomboy, is surprised to learn that she has been secretly betrothed by her grandfather to a young officer named Shinobu Ijuin. Because of his family’s noble status, Benio must first undergo rigorous training to learn how to be a proper bride and wife before she can marry. However, because of her vivacious personality, this proves to me more challenging than anyone imagined.
Genres: Drama Romance Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1987-12-12
Popularity:
An Outlaw
1964-04-05
An Outlaw
Overview: Assassin Nanjo goes on a solitary mission to take revenge on the man who trapped him into a complicated drug deal.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-04-05
Popularity:
Rajo to satsujin-meiro
1959-01-22
Rajo to satsujin-meiro
Overview: Japanese crime film.
Genres: Crime Mystery
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1959-01-22
Popularity:
Flickering Flames
1977-02-26
Flickering Flames
Overview: In the early hours of April 13th, a five year old hemophiliac child was kidnapped by someone from Tanemura General Hospital in Tokyo, Setagaya. Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department Inspector Kitahara, who received the report, goes quickly to the Tanemura home, along with other police to speak to the family of the child. Then, suddenly, the phone rings. The kidnapper wants money.
Genres: Mystery Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1977-02-26
Popularity:
The Bad Boss
1968-05-06
The Bad Boss
Overview: The first in what would become Toei's most successful, longest-running bosozoku film series. It lasted from 1968 till 1972 through sixteen films.
Genres: Drama Crime Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-05-06
Popularity:
August without Emperor
1978-09-23
August without Emperor
Overview: Taking the Chilean coup as an example, a group of young officers plan to overthrow the Japanese government on V-J Day. They aim to abolish the post-war constitution, restore the national army and revive the traditional spirit of Japan. As the conspiracy is exposed, the coup squadrons are wiped out one by one. The remaining squadron takes over a night train bound for Tokyo.
Genres: Drama Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1978-09-23
Popularity:
Kukai
1984-04-13
Kukai
Overview: The life and times of Kûkai, a Japanese monk who studies Esoteric Buddhism in the far reaches of India, China and Tibet, then uses their combined influence to establish the Shingon school during the Heian period in early 9th Century AD.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1984-04-13
Popularity:
Dead Angle
1979-07-04
Dead Angle
Overview: Elite college graduates commit perfect financial crimes though loopholes in the law during the 1950s.
Genres: Crime Thriller Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1979-07-04
Popularity:
Battles Without Honor and Humanity: Proxy War
1973-09-25
Battles Without Honor and Humanity: Proxy War
Overview: Shozo Hirono has managed to separate from the Yamamori family and create his own small family, and extend his circle of acquaintances. These new friendships include a powerful underboss of the Muraoka family, Noboru Uchimoto.
Genres: Action Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1973-09-25
Popularity:
Tokyo Pop
1988-04-15
Tokyo Pop
Overview: A young rock singer is not appreciated by her band, and gets a postcard from Japan saying "wish you were here". She takes what little money she has including ex-boyfriend's rent money and goes to Tokyo. She has numerous cross-cultural adventures and ends up singing with a Japanese rock group looking for a gaijin gimmick.
Genres: Comedy Romance Music
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1988-04-15
Popularity:
Be Free!
1986-08-09
Be Free!
Overview: Adventures of a young high school teacher and his oddball students.
Genres: Drama Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1986-08-09
Popularity:
A Madcap Corporation
1983-12-17
A Madcap Corporation
Overview: A comedy of a yakuza family that goes into show business.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1983-12-17
Popularity:
Suspicion
1982-09-11
Suspicion
Overview: A car going at 25 mph plunges into the sea at Shinko Harbour, Toyama prefecture. Inside is the local business magnate Fukutaro Shirakawa, who perishes. Riding alongside him and surviving unhurt is his second wife, Kumako. It soon comes to light that Kumako’s husband was insured for 300 million yen and she is arrested on suspicion of murdering her husband for the insurance money. The newspapers denounce her as an evil woman, while the public is in no doubt about Kumako’s crime. Ritsuko Sahara is chosen as her defence attorney but the pair clash over almost everything...
Genres: Crime Drama Mystery
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1982-09-11
Popularity:
The Challenge
1962-03-28
The Challenge
Overview: Journalist Kuroki is investigating clandestine arms sales to Southeast Asia. He discovers that the point man in an arms trade was also involved in the cover-up of a murder on an American base during the Allied Occupation. The film rolls along as a suspenseful thriller while offering a critique of political corruption, hypocrisy, and journalistic cowardice in postwar Japan.
Genres: Crime Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-03-28
Popularity:
A Class to Remember IV: Fifteen
2000-11-11
A Class to Remember IV: Fifteen
Overview: Bored with school, 15-year-old Daisuke Kawashima embarks on a pilgrimage to visit the 7,000-year-old cedar tree on distant Yakushima Island. Through his journey, Daisuke meets a number of interesting people, including friendly truck driver Sumire and a mysterious mountaineer girl.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2000-11-11
Popularity:
Daredevil in the Castle
1961-01-03
Daredevil in the Castle
Overview: During the raging war between the Toyotomi and Tokugawa clans, the swordsman Mohei (whose family has been completely decimated) is recruited by Toyotomi to overcome the seat of power, Osaka Castle. Mohei's daredevil skills will be put to severe tests.
Genres: History War Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-01-03
Popularity:
Jubaku: Spellbound
1999-09-18
Jubaku: Spellbound
Overview: When a major bank is caught paying off a corporate extortionist, the media and prosecutors begin to dig, breaking open a money-and-favours scandal that threatens to rock the entire structure of business and government to its core. While the bank's top executives continue to vacillate, a quartet of middle-management reformers, led by straight-arrow Kitano (Koji Yakusho), decide to stage a boardroom coup and install a new, clean management team. With the aid of a hotshot news anchor (Miho Wada) and a hard-nosed prosecutor (Kenichi Endo), heads begin to roll.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1999-09-18
Popularity:
Night Train
1987-01-17
Night Train
Overview: A woman faces betrayal, which tests her love.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1987-01-17
Popularity:
Emperor Meiji and the Great Russo-Japanese War
1957-04-29
Emperor Meiji and the Great Russo-Japanese War
Overview: Meiji Tenno portrays the buildup to the Russo-Japan War. In addition to showing the political events that led to war, it also shows the era from the story of a farm family in rural Japan that sends their son off to war. As such, it could be considered an anti-war movie, showing how, while war is devised by governments, the people do not really understand what war is, and its combatants often do not know what they are fighting for.
Genres: History War Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1957-04-29
Popularity:
Kyōen Kobanzame
1958-11-08
Kyōen Kobanzame
Overview: Japanese film, originally released in two parts.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1958-11-08
Popularity:
G-Men in the Pacific
1962-04-22
G-Men in the Pacific
Overview: G-men challenge a jewelry smuggling ring. The chase starts in Kyushu and continues to Kobe to Yokohama.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-04-22
Popularity:
Tange Sazen
1963-11-17
Tange Sazen
Overview: In 1730, the Tokugawa Shogunate orders the Yagyu Clan to repair a huge shrine. Since it cannot refuse the Shogunate's request, the impoverished Yagyu Clan tries to raise funds by obtaining a sword which holds the key to a wondrous, hidden treasure. After learning the sword's secret, Tange Sazen sides with the Yagyu Clan, but his motive seems to be more than just pure interest in the treasure...
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-11-17
Popularity:
Blind Beast vs Dwarf Killer
2001-06-24
Blind Beast vs Dwarf Killer
Overview: A blind masseur kidnaps young women and kills them and then make sculptures of them, while a mysterious dwarf spreading severed body parts around. Detective Akechi Kogorô investigating crimes.
Genres: Horror
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2001-06-24
Popularity:
金語楼の雷社長
1956-09-05
金語楼の雷社長
Overview: Japanese comedy film.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1956-09-05
Popularity:
The Shogun's Vault
1964-08-13
The Shogun's Vault
Overview: Okawa Hashizo is 'Red Peony' Hanji who is thrown into a prison cell where he gets involved in a plot to steal government gold from the Shogun's vault. A tough fighter, he has to show his ability in order to keep from getting himself killed by the prisoners, too. Co-starring some of the biggest name in movies at the time, including Kataoka Chiezo and Tanba Tetsuro this film is loaded with surprises. From the opening moments when prisoners carry out their own form of justice, killing a crooked ex-constable, it is clear that this is the work of a visionary filmmaker.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-08-13
Popularity:
The Young Eagles of the Kamikaze
1968-06-01
The Young Eagles of the Kamikaze
Overview: The film is dedicated to the souls of flight school graduates killed in World War II. Young boys dream about becoming pilots and apply to flight schools. However, the flight schools have extremely demanding, harsh training, and once they finally become pilots, they must become suicide bombers and give their lives for their homeland.
Genres: War Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-06-01
Popularity:
Flames of Blood
1981-01-01
Flames of Blood
Overview: The story is set in Bakumatsu and revolves around the Bunta Sugawara character, a yakuza (of course :) but instead of a modern yakuza/gangster, he's a gambler/bakuto). After he kills someone and gets wound, is saved by a blind woman (Mitsuko Baishô), who took care of him. They has a happy time under the protection of the Tomisaburo Wakayama character, an oybun. But of course, happy time doesn't last long. The story is also related to Okada Izo and the Shinsengumi (w/ Kondo Isami played by Makoto Sato)
Genres: Action Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1981-01-01
Popularity:
Female Neo-Ninjas
1991-01-01
Female Neo-Ninjas
Overview: Three cute, sexy ninjas, around the age of 20, have been in training, building their powers for some vague future threat. Their destined mission becomes apparent when a handsome ninja from 400 years past drops from the sky into the hot tub of on of the girls. He comes with news of a grave threat: an evil industrialist has apparently joined forces with UFOs to take over Japan. The only solution, it seems, lies in the special talents of the three girls - notable as much for their martial arts as their skimpy costumes.
Genres: Comedy Science Fiction
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1991-01-01
Popularity:
Shogun's Ninja
1980-11-15
Shogun's Ninja
Overview: In the middle of the 16th century, Hideyoshi, a power hungry warlord sets out to destroy the Momochi clan. He sends his war commander in search of the clan's hidden gold only to find that two daggers are the key to the hiding place of the treasured gold. Spanning decades, the quest for the missing daggers takes Shiranui through war and ancient tradition.
Genres: Action Adventure
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1980-11-15
Popularity:
The Fencing Collegian
1956-02-26
The Fencing Collegian
Overview: Japanese sports comedy film about kendo.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1956-02-26
Popularity:
Graveyard of Honor
2002-06-22
Graveyard of Honor
Overview: A barkeeper saves a Yakuza boss' life and thus makes his way up in the organization. However, his fear of nothing soon causes problems.
Genres: Crime Drama Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2002-06-22
Popularity:
Queen of Asia
1957-12-28
Queen of Asia
Overview: Japanese war film based on the true story of Yoshiko Kawashima, played by actress Miyuki Takakura in her film debut.
Genres: War
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1957-12-28
Popularity:
Kingoro's Soldier
1956-05-11
Kingoro's Soldier
Overview: Japanese comedy film.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1956-05-11
Popularity:
Psychic: Traveler to the Unknown
1994-06-11
Psychic: Traveler to the Unknown
Overview: Hikaru, an ordinary man, discovers a way to unleash the supernatural powers hidden inside his soul, allowing him to cure others with his newfound “ki” healing power.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1994-06-11
Popularity:
All Rascals
1962-03-21
All Rascals
Overview: Ishihama is planning a casino robbery with his wife and mother-in-law. They meet a man named Tsuneda who is planning the same robbery and agree to work together.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-03-21
Popularity:
Kuro to aka no hanabira
1962-01-14
Kuro to aka no hanabira
Overview: Crime film distributed by Taiho.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-01-14
Popularity:
Army Intelligence
1968-02-09
Army Intelligence
Overview: Kazuo, a Japanese army intelligence agent, reveals a foreign intelligence network in Japan and then sent to Borneo Island with a special mission.
Genres: Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-02-09
Popularity:
Mukeisatsu
1959-04-17
Mukeisatsu
Overview: Japanese crime film.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1959-04-17
Popularity:
A Flame at the Pier
1962-09-30
A Flame at the Pier
Overview: A young dockworker who owes his life to his boss becomes embroiled in union activity on the Yokohama waterfront. The rebel Saburo works as an errand boy for a shipping company and vents his frustrations by plucking on the guitar.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-09-30
Popularity:
Abashiri Prison
1965-04-18
Abashiri Prison
Overview: Abashiri Prison is located in the coldest place in Japan. Two men, handcuffed together have escaped from the prison, one a yakuza, the other a petty criminal, and although they hate each other they must work together if they are to evade capture in this harshest of climates.
Genres: Drama Thriller Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-04-18
Popularity:
Shinran: Path to Purity
1987-06-02
Shinran: Path to Purity
Overview: In the 12th century, Buddhism was still a relatively new religion in Japan. At that time, one school (Shingon) offered extensive training in complex and very demanding practices which might eventually bring about spiritual purification and realization. Various Zen schools offered students a lengthy path, literally composed of a blank wall and unceasing meditation. Yet another school (Tendai) emphasized complex metaphysics and the study of philosophical systems. Basically, all of them were designed to cater to the few who were able to give up everything else in their lives and focus on liberation, such as scholars and noblemen. In this historical and biographical drama, this is the situation that the young Shinran (1173-1263) discovered when he began exploring Buddhism as an alternative to the violence and ceaseless civil wars that racked Japan at the time.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1987-06-02
Popularity:
The Alaska Story
1977-01-22
The Alaska Story
Overview: A Japanese sailor finds a colony of Eskimos in the Arctic and decides to stay with them. He comes off at a certain moment to look for his luck in the gold rush in Alaska. But he does not forget them.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1977-01-22
Popularity:
Harakiri
1962-09-15
Harakiri
Overview: Down-on-his-luck veteran Tsugumo Hanshirō enters the courtyard of the prosperous House of Iyi. Unemployed, and with no family, he hopes to find a place to commit seppuku—and a worthy second to deliver the coup de grâce in his suicide ritual. The senior counselor for the Iyi clan questions the ronin’s resolve and integrity, suspecting Hanshirō of seeking charity rather than an honorable end. What follows is a pair of interlocking stories which lay bare the difference between honor and respect, and promises to examine the legendary foundations of the Samurai code.
Genres: Action Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-09-15
Popularity:
The Wild Daisy
1981-08-08
The Wild Daisy
Overview: Saito Masao reminisces on the days of his youth more than 50 years ago and his forbidden love of his older cousin Tamiko. When he was 15, Tamiko moved in to take care of his sickly mother. The two quickly fell in love with each other but were inevitably forced by their family to live separate lives.
Genres: Romance
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1981-08-08
Popularity:
Samurai from Somewhere
1964-12-07
Samurai from Somewhere
Overview: Young Lord Takenaka stands to succeed his father until a series of violent actions lead his retainers to think that he has gone mad with blood-lust. Never offering any explanation, he continues his seemingly unprovoked attacks until he is sent away from his domain.
Genres: Action Adventure
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-12-07
Popularity:
The Ceiling at Utsunomiya
1956-09-19
The Ceiling at Utsunomiya
Overview: Ryutaro is a spy employed by the shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu, who is the target of assassination attempts that aim to hand power over to his younger brother Tadanaga. Before learning of these plots, Ryutaro discovers himself in a predicament of his own when he rushes to the defence of a local girl who is caught between her boyfriend and a greedy businessman. The situation results in many violent one-on-one skirmishes between Ryutaro and the businessman’s many samurai defendants, one of whom enigmatically refuses to reveal his face or use more than just the one hand. Before long, Ryutaro’s top priority is not protecting Iemitsu as it should be, but rather unearthing the true identity of the mystery samurai.
Genres: Action Horror
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1956-09-19
Popularity:
Conflagration
1975-07-12
Conflagration
Overview: Global South guerrillas hijack the Japanese oil tanker Arabian Light, threatening to blow it up in Tokyo Bay, unless the Cabinet complies with an economically devastating ultimatum.
Genres: Adventure Action Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1975-07-12
Popularity:
Underwater Murder
1958-07-27
Underwater Murder
Overview: The film marked Yōko Mihara's debut as the star of Shintoho's series of ama films, a role she took over from Michiko Maeda.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1958-07-27
Popularity:
Human Revolution II
1976-06-19
Human Revolution II
Overview: Dramatic story of one man trying to make a difference.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1976-06-19
Popularity:
Submarine Ro Hasn't Surfaced
1954-07-13
Submarine Ro Hasn't Surfaced
Overview: Japanese war film.
Genres: War
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1954-07-13
Popularity:
Samurai from Nowhere
1964-05-20
Samurai from Nowhere
Overview: Misawa Ihei (Nagato) is traveling with his wife Tae (Iwashita Shima) who abhors the practice of sword fighting for prize money. Tae is the daughter of the clan's chief counselor who married the low-ranking Ihei to avoid becoming the clan lord's mistress. Into the mix comes Oba Gunjuro (Tetsurō Tamba), a mysterious ronin who will do anything for money. This leads to a fitting climax as the forces of hate and love converge while the couple attempt to break through the border!
Genres: Action Adventure
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-05-20
Popularity:
Greatest Boss of the Showa Era
1966-05-30
Greatest Boss of the Showa Era
Overview: Somewhat unique as it appears to be one of the very rare appearances of master thespian Itô in a yakuza role.
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-05-30
Popularity:
High Seas Hijack
1977-10-20
High Seas Hijack
Overview: Terrorists hijack an oil tanker and threaten to blow it up unless Japan meets their demands.
Genres: Adventure Action
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1977-10-20
Popularity:
Gang vs. Gang
1962-07-13
Gang vs. Gang
Overview: The plot opens with the hero (Tsuruta) leaving prison, having served time through taking the blame for a fellow gang member’s crime. However, his former gang boss seems to have gone to seed, with people now killing each other and dealing in drugs. The hero then teams up with a lone operator (Tamba) who specialises in shaking down gangsters.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-07-13
Popularity:
Nezumi Kozō kaitō den
1984-12-28
Nezumi Kozō kaitō den
Overview: Japanese comedy film.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1984-12-28
Popularity:
Quick on the Trigger
1958-07-06
Quick on the Trigger
Overview: Early pinku.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1958-07-06
Popularity:
Choshichiro's Edo Diaries: The Yagyu Conspiracy
1984-01-01
Choshichiro's Edo Diaries: The Yagyu Conspiracy
Overview: Rumors are circulating that the shogunate is losing control of some feudal domains. Lord Yagyu Munefuyu is assigned to deal with the problem and the rebellious clans will be crushed! Meanwhile, a former vassal of the Kazama clan is shot and killed. Moments later a second man is killed by a mysterious master swordsman. Matsudaira Choshichiro and his companions arrive at the crime scene and find a new type of repeating gun. The carved seal on the gun stock belong to the Saiga; a ninja clan abolished by the shogunate many years ago. The blame for the murders is placed on the Kazama clan. Are they guilty or is this a wise cunning plan by Lord Yagyu to be able to destroy the Kazama clan? Choshichiro sets out to reveal the truth and try to save the doomed Kazama clan! In his way are the Owari, Lord Yagyu and his ninja assassins, and the mysterious master swordsman! Will Choshichiro prevail against impossible odds...?
Genres: Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1984-01-01
Popularity:
Speed King
1956-04-11
Speed King
Overview: Japanese film about motorcycle racing.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1956-04-11
Popularity:
Call from Darkness
1981-09-26
Call from Darkness
Overview: Keiko Inagawa (Asami Kobayashi) pays a visit to neurologist Aizawa about her fiancé Tatsuo Tamura (Kaoru Kobayashi). A mysterious case involving the disappearance of Tatsuo’s three brothers, one after the other, is yet to be resolved and now Tatsuo, seized with the idea that he too may disappear, has had a nervous breakdown. Aizawa suggests that Tatsuo recount his dreams as a means of solving the mystery, since human beings have an instinct that foretells the near future in the form of a dream. Keiko and Tatsuo eventually discover that the three disappearances have a strange connection…
Genres: Thriller Drama Mystery
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1981-09-26
Popularity:
The Pacific War and the International Military Tribunal
1959-01-03
The Pacific War and the International Military Tribunal
Overview: In 1941, overpopulated Japan faces an economic boycott and its armed forces push further to the south. And despite negotiations between Japan and the U. S. A. war is declared with the attack on Pearl Harbour. Victories follow for Japan on land and sea and her forces push forward to the borders of India. But gradually the tide turns in favour of the Allies and after the atom bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan is compelled to accept the Potsdam Declaration and by the order of the Emperor agrees to unconditional surrender. Under the supervision of the occupation forces the International Military Tribunal opens in Tokyo to try the Japanese war leaders. Established in the cause of justice, and to prevent future aggressive wars the trials drag on for two and a half years. And on December 23, 1948, General Tojo and six other war leaders mount the thirteen steps to the gallows at Tokyo's Sugamo prison.
Genres: War
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1959-01-03
Popularity:
Kaachan
1961-03-15
Kaachan
Overview: Home drama about tin craftsmen and their families in downtown Tokyo. Though poor, they do not lose their cheerfulness or give in to oppression.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-03-15
Popularity:
Kingorō no kaigun taishô
1959-12-27
Kingorō no kaigun taishô
Overview: Japanese comedy film.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1959-12-27
Popularity:
The Incident
1978-06-03
The Incident
Overview: The body of Sakai Hatsuko, a woman of 23 who has been slain with a knife, has been found in a forest. Some days later, Ueda Hiroshi, a 19-year-old shipyard worker, is arrested and charged with the murder. At Ueda's trial, a complex story unfolds.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1978-06-03
Popularity:
Gambler's Farewell
1968-02-09
Gambler's Farewell
Overview: The story of men devoted to the yakuza lifestyle and their struggles during a time of fading yakuza power.
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-02-09
Popularity:
The International Gang of Kobe
1975-10-14
The International Gang of Kobe
Overview: In 1947, in Kobe, Japan, a local street gang fights for their survival when its turf is overrun by United States occupation forces and international gangs.
Genres: Crime Drama Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1975-10-14
Popularity:
Mysterious Pygmy
1955-02-12
Mysterious Pygmy
Overview: Horror film about a killer dwarf.
Genres: Horror
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1955-02-12
Popularity:
All Men Are Brothers
1975-05-10
All Men Are Brothers
Overview: Based on one of China's enduring epic novels, written in the 14th century, "All Men Are Brothers" continues the patriotic story of righteous warriors battling despotic leaders, featuring mythic characters familiar to every Chinese, and with a cast that has achieved an equally celebrated status among Shaw Brothers devotees.
Genres: Action Adventure Drama
Original Language: zh
Release Date: 1975-05-10
Popularity:
Nichiren
1979-03-10
Nichiren
Overview: An epic drama about Nichiren's life. Nichiren was a Buddhist monk who lived for 60 years during the Kamakura period (1185-1333) in Japan. Nichiren taught devotion to the Lotus Sutra as the exclusive means to attain enlightenment. Because of his devout belief, Nichiren is met with opposition throught his travels, with life on the line, can Nichiren accomplish his goal?
Genres: History Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1979-03-10
Popularity:
Jakoman and Tetsu
1964-02-08
Jakoman and Tetsu
Overview: In a village subsisting on its herring fishery, a one-eyed criminal named Jakoman terrorizes the inhabitants. One of them, the son of the head of one of the fish companies by the name of Tetsu, decides to overthrow Jakoman and his cohorts.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-02-08
Popularity:
Thirst for Love
1966-04-01
Thirst for Love
Overview: Natsuko, a Tokyo bar proprietress, and Yuki, a Kyoto Ryokan owner, vie for the affections of an advertising professional.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-04-01
Popularity:
Yakuza Ladies 3
1989-04-08
Yakuza Ladies 3
Overview: Upon the passing of the Sakanishi Clan’s boss, a fierce battle between his wife Hazuki and his disciple Terada breaks out. Will Hazuki be able to assume her husband’s position as the head of the established yakuza clan?
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1989-04-08
Popularity:
Greed in Broad Daylight
1961-11-01
Greed in Broad Daylight
Overview: After a successful robbery the culprits, from very different backgrounds, at once turn on each other.
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-11-01
Popularity:
The Bullet Train
1975-07-05
The Bullet Train
Overview: A Japanese bullet train is threatened with a bomb that will explode automatically if the train slows below 80 km/h, unless a ransom is paid. Police race to find the bombers so the train crew can learn how to defuse the bomb.
Genres: Action Crime Drama Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1975-07-05
Popularity:
Blood of Revenge
1965-09-18
Blood of Revenge
Overview: Osaka, 1907: Asajiro lives between a rock and a hard place: he has to keep his business clean and running, tame his late oyabun’s hot-blooded son and suffer the throes of his impossible love for beautiful geisha Hatsue.
Genres: Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-09-18
Popularity:
The Ghost of Kasane
1957-07-10
The Ghost of Kasane
Overview: A blind masseur visits a samurai to request the return of a loan. The samurai kills him in anger, then has his servant dump the body in the Kasane swamp. However, the ghost of the masseur returns to haunt the samurai, who kills his wife by mistake and then goes to the swamp and drowns himself. 20 years later, the masseur's daughter unknowingly falls in love with the samurai's son who has been brought up to be a servant. After she is horribly disfigured in an accident, he plots to run away with another woman, but the path of their escape lies by the Kasane swamp...
Genres: Horror
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1957-07-10
Popularity:
A Wicked Woman
1958-02-25
A Wicked Woman
Overview: In 1870's Tokyo, Den steals to support the daughter of her first marriage and her consumptive second husband. She falls in love with a young policeman, but is coerced into becoming the mistress of and procurer for a vice boss.
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1958-02-25
Popularity:
Four Sisters
1962-07-01
Four Sisters
Overview: A story about the lives of four sisters and their manipulative mother who must come to terms with each of their decisions in life.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-07-01
Popularity:
Organized Violence II
1967-06-29
Organized Violence II
Overview:
Genres: Crime Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-06-29
Popularity:
Four Days of Snow and Blood
1989-06-17
Four Days of Snow and Blood
Overview: Based on the "2.26 Incident", an attempted coup d'état in Japan 1936, launched by radical ultra-nationalist parts of the military. Several leading politicians were killed and the center of Tokyo was briefly held by the insurgents before the coup was suppressed.
Genres: Drama War History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1989-06-17
Popularity:
King of the Gang
1967-08-25
King of the Gang
Overview: The 11th and final film in the Gang series. Most of the films had different directors and cast, and were only connected by the title and Toei's marketing department. Unlike the early entries, which were jazzy capers, this final entry is a prototype jitsuroku yakuza film. Just back from the war, Noboru Ando leads a gang of war vets turned gangster in the US occupied streets of Tokyo. They get into a conflict with a Chinese gang as well as the military police. Tetsuro Tamba appears as a police chief trying to bring peace to the streets; 1st wave pinky violence star Masumi Tachibana is a girl grieving his dead gangster father.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-08-25
Popularity:
Penitentiary Brothers
1969-07-26
Penitentiary Brothers
Overview: Authentic action drama of modern gangsters.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-07-26
Popularity:
The Private Police
1969-09-06
The Private Police
Overview: After the war, Kijima (Bunta Sugawara) returns to Tokyo where he meets Ôba (Noboru Andô), an Ex-Kamikaze pilot, and the two ruffians gather hooligans to join their group. In Ginza, the Togawa gang have taken over Sakurada's territory. After several fights Kijima and Ôba gain control of the territory by chasing out the notorious Togawa Group in the name of Sakurada. But Kijima is arrested for assaulting an American soldier. A few years pass. Kijima has served his prison term and the sears of war have been erased from Ginza. Ôba is now president of a company specializing in collection of bad debts, cheque frauds and everything that means money. People call their organization the “Private Police,” and Kijima begins to work for Ôba. Now the Takegami gang waits a chance to seize the Ginza territory.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-09-06
Popularity:
Tales of Young Genji Kuro 3
1962-03-07
Tales of Young Genji Kuro 3
Overview: In the third, and final chapter of this epic tale, handsome swordsman Genji helps a vulnerable princess who is in search of a missing scroll that belongs to the Shogun. This is one of the most highly regarded trilogies featuring a youthful Nakamura Kinnosuke in one of his best roles. This was Kinnosuke at the height of his career, with charm, honor and a vicious sword. If you enjoyed the first two films in the series, you can't miss the exciting conclusion. Even without know-ledge of the first two films, this movie stands on its own with great action throughout!
Genres: Action Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-03-07
Popularity:
The Way to The Gold Medals
1980-04-05
The Way to The Gold Medals
Overview: About Soviet and Japanese volley-ball players who are both rivals and friends. The events cover the period from the 1976 Montreal Olympics to the eve of XXII Olympics in Moscow.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1980-04-05
Popularity:
Fireflies in the North
1984-09-01
Fireflies in the North
Overview: Set in the icy wilderness of Hokkaido during the early days of the Meiji era, where the brutal warden of Kabato Prison terrorizes convicts sentenced to forced labor to build the roads needed to open up the territory.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1984-09-01
Popularity:
The Last True Yakuza
1985-11-16
The Last True Yakuza
Overview: A made man during the height of Hiroshima's yakuza turf war must maneuver through the violence and betrayal inside the criminal underworld.
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1985-11-16
Popularity:
Gang vs. G-Men
1962-11-02
Gang vs. G-Men
Overview: Two rival gangs of gangsters clash for dominance of a neighborhood.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-11-02
Popularity:
Dissolution Rites
1967-03-31
Dissolution Rites
Overview: Sawaki is released from prison after serving eight years for murdering a rival gang leader in order to obtain the land rights to a landfill for the Kotaki clan and he discovers that the world has changed significantly in that time. The police have forced the disbanding of all yakuza groups in and around Tokyo and most of the former yakuza have moved on to legitimate jobs. Sawaki is disgusted that his yakuza brothers have abandoned their codes of honor and are abusing their newfound power in the legitimate business world to exploit the poor. Sawaki feels partly responsible for making them so powerful and enabling their corruption, so he decides to follow his traditional code of honor to save the residents of a small town where his former lover lives.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-03-31
Popularity:
Yakuza Skirmishes
1972-09-29
Yakuza Skirmishes
Overview: In the gaudy world of 1930s Shinjuku, a violent youth known as Bakudan Match tangles explosively with prostitutes, politicians and the police.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1972-09-29
Popularity:
Quarreling with Yakuza
1973-03-03
Quarreling with Yakuza
Overview: Set loose in a postwar world with no rules, an ex-juvenile delinquent begins building the most powerful gang in Tokyo's glittering Shibuya ward.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1973-03-03
Popularity:
Black Lizard
1968-07-31
Black Lizard
Overview: A detective tries to outwit a jewel thief who has kidnapped the daughter of a jeweler to get to an exquisite diamond.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-07-31
Popularity:
The Ando Gang Documentary Film
1973-12-01
The Ando Gang Documentary Film
Overview: This biopic of notorious yakuza-turned-actor Noboru Ando focuses on the days leading to his arrest after the shooting of businessman Hideki Yokoi.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1973-12-01
Popularity:
Portrait of Chieko
1967-06-22
Portrait of Chieko
Overview: Takamura, a poet and sculptor, marries a budding artist named Chieko who dreams of becoming an oil painter. When a series of hardships befall her family, she finds herself unable to confide in her husband, and the pain she carries within begins to weigh heavily on her sanity...
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-06-22
Popularity:
Crayon Shin-chan: Explosion! The Hot Spring's Feel Good Final Battle
1999-04-17
Crayon Shin-chan: Explosion! The Hot Spring's Feel Good Final Battle
Overview: There's only one way to stop a filthy evil scientist from destroying the world, and it's with a powerful hot spring located under Shin-chan's house!
Genres: Animation Action Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1999-04-17
Popularity:
The Fall of Ako Castle
1978-10-28
The Fall of Ako Castle
Overview: This is the story of "The Forty-Seven Ronin." Based on historical events in 1701-2, the movie tells the tale of the Asano clan's downfall and the revenge of its former samurai on the perpetrator of the catastrophe. Lord Asano was goaded, or tricked, into drawing his sword inside the Shogun's palace -- a crime which carried the death penalty. The newly installed Shogun was furious at Asano and ordered all his clan's assets seized, meaning some 20,000 samurai and commoners were unemployed and landless at a stroke. Forty-seven of these ronin (masterless samurai) banded together to take attempt revenge on Lord Kira, who had goaded Asano into drawing his sword.
Genres: Action Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1978-10-28
Popularity:
Shogun's Samurai
1978-01-21
Shogun's Samurai
Overview: Following the death of the second Tokugawa shogun, it is revealed that he was poisoned by retainers of his son Iemitsu in hopes of gaining him the shogunate despite the stammer and birthmark which undermine his respect. Iemitsu and his brother Tadanaga become bitter rivals for the shogunate, and the land is split into factions, eventually erupting into warfare. Iemitsu's mentor, his fencing instructor Yagyu, is fixated upon securing Iemitsu the shogunate and ends up betraying everyone, even his own family, in pursuit of the goal.
Genres: Action Drama Adventure
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1978-01-21
Popularity:
Samurai Reincarnation
1981-06-06
Samurai Reincarnation
Overview: After surviving the slaughter of many Christians 350 years ago, a samurai denounces God for ignoring the pleas of believers. He sells his soul to Satan and receives the power to resurrect the dead to join him in a murderous rampage.
Genres: Action Fantasy Horror
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1981-06-06
Popularity:
13 Assassins
1963-12-07
13 Assassins
Overview: A sadistic Daimyo (feudal lord) rapes a woman and murders both her and her husband, but even when one of his own vassals commits suicide to bring attention to the crime, the matter is quickly hushed up. Not only will there be no punishment, but because the Daimyo is the Shogun's younger brother, he will soon be appointed to a high political position from which he could wreak even more havoc. Convinced that the fate of the Shogunate hangs in the balance, a plot is hatched to assassinate the Daimyo. The two most brilliant strategic minds of their generation find themselves pitted against each other; one is tasked to defend a man he despises, and has a small army at his disposal. The other is given a suicide mission, and has 12 brave men. They are the 13 Assassins.
Genres: Adventure Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-12-07
Popularity:
Wild Cop 2
1973-12-01
Wild Cop 2
Overview: Based on the comic Gokuburi Deka.
Genres: Action Crime Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1973-12-01
Popularity:
Sazen Tange and The Secret of the Urn
1966-05-25
Sazen Tange and The Secret of the Urn
Overview: Loyal samurai Samanosuke is attacked, mutilated, and left for dead while carrying out a mission for his clan. He recovers but has lost an eye and an arm. Taking a new identity as Tange Sazen, he searches for a stolen urn which has hidden significance to his clan. But Tange Sazen has his own reasons for seeking the urn.
Genres: Action Adventure Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-05-25
Popularity:
The Geisha
1983-09-10
The Geisha
Overview: Yokiro was the most successful Geisha house in Western Japan during the first half of the 20th century and remains open to this day. At its peak, it was home to over 200 geisha, however behind the fabulous facade, there were many battles - between family members, men and women, and with the Yakuza. Momokawa was sold to Yokiro at age 12, and despite being the top geisha, her many complicated relationships provide unending challenges throughout her glamorous but turbulent life.
Genres: Drama Romance War
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1983-09-10
Popularity:
The Imperial Navy
1981-08-08
The Imperial Navy
Overview: A lavish retelling of the true story of the final voyage and ultimate destruction and sinking of the battleship Yamato, Japan's greatest flagship during the Second World War.
Genres: War Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1981-08-08
Popularity:
The Yellow Climate
1961-09-23
The Yellow Climate
Overview: Based on the mystery novel of the same name by Seichō Matsumoto.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-09-23
Popularity:
The Classroom of Terror
1976-07-01
The Classroom of Terror
Overview: Yusaku Matsuda plays an ex-boxer who killed an opponent during a fight. He is brought into a school to deal with a gang of disruptive students led by Hiroshi Tachi.
Genres: Thriller Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1976-07-01
Popularity:
The Armed Organization
1971-11-10
The Armed Organization
Overview: Violent Gang Re-Arms is a rousing tale of friction in yakuza and labor interactions with Koji Tsurata as a yakuza supervising a dockworker's union. He finds himself between a rock and a hard place, at odds with both the dockworkers' leader (Tomisaburo Wakayama) and sadistic, unprincipled bosses (Fumio Watanabe and Tetsuro Tamba).
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1971-11-10
Popularity:
Red Peony Gambler: Biographies of a Gambling Room
1969-10-01
Red Peony Gambler: Biographies of a Gambling Room
Overview: Junko Fuji returns as Oryu the Red Peony, a wandering female yakuza on a soul-searching journey after the death of her father. After collecting her sickly follower from jail, she is taken in by a fishing village. Feeling indebed to their generosity, she stays to work for the village and promises to leave her yakuza ways behind. When a dispute breaks out for the gambling rights to a local festival, the villagers are harrassed by a gang of thugs. When the harrassment turns violent, Oryu must decide wither to keep her promise or protect the villagers.
Genres: Action Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-10-01
Popularity:
To Trap a Kidnapper
1982-09-25
To Trap a Kidnapper
Overview: Hideyuki Mitamura, a student at a private school near Osaka, is kidnapped on his way home from school.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1982-09-25
Popularity:
Eleven Gangsters
1963-01-15
Eleven Gangsters
Overview:
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-01-15
Popularity:
Port Arthur
1980-08-02
Port Arthur
Overview: Depicts the bloody siege of the fortress of Port Arthur, one of the most strongly fortified positions in the world, during the Russo-Japanese War of (1904 - 1905). In the story dominated the character Lt Takeshi Kogyo (Teruhiko Aoi), teachers, and a reserve officer who became commander of the platoon and later company. At the same time monitors the conduct of the army commander general Nogi (Tatsuya Nakadai), which was commissioned of the emperor Matsuhito (Toshirô Mifune) to the conquest of the fort.
Genres: War Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1980-08-02
Popularity:
Twilight of the Cockroaches
1987-11-21
Twilight of the Cockroaches
Overview: The cockroaches of Saito's apartment live in peace with their human host, who gives them lots of space to breed and plenty of leftovers to munch on. In the midst of these high living times, Naomi and Ichiro plan to get married and start a family. But when a hard-bitten stranger roach named Hans appears with news of war with the humans across the lawn, it foretells disruption-not only of Naomi and Ichiro's relationship, but of the hive's entire way of life.
Genres: Fantasy Drama Science Fiction Romance Family Animation
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1987-11-21
Popularity:
The Shogun Assassins
1979-09-01
The Shogun Assassins
Overview: This is a film about a real person. Sanada Yukimura fought a war against Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Genres: Action Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1979-09-01
Popularity:
Get 'em All
1960-11-29
Get 'em All
Overview: Gang of robbers quarrel about the loot, but when one of them gets killed, his younger brother seeks them out to ice them one by one.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1960-11-29
Popularity:
L・O・V・I・N・G
1983-12-24
L・O・V・I・N・G
Overview: Murder case.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1983-12-24
Popularity:
The Thousand Year Fire
2004-09-11
The Thousand Year Fire
Overview: Having lost both his mother and father, an 11-year-old city boy is sent to live with his grandparents in a small seaside village. Feeling responsible for his father's accidental death, he becomes increasingly introverted and finds himself unable to make friends with the local kids. Then an eccentric elderly doctor takes him under his wing, and tells him of an ancient ceremony where a sacred flame must be brought back from a remote island by a lone swimmer.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2004-09-11
Popularity:
Once and For All
1967-05-20
Once and For All
Overview: Film concerning warring yakuza families.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-05-20
Popularity:
A Case of Murder by the Atami Station Taxi Stand
2003-02-17
A Case of Murder by the Atami Station Taxi Stand
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2003-02-17
Popularity:
The Story of a Man Among Men
1984-11-17
The Story of a Man Among Men
Overview: During the Showa era, a young yakuza survives war and injury and rises to become a clan boss with the help and respect of his sworn brothers.
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1984-11-17
Popularity:
Destroyer Yukikaze
1964-02-16
Destroyer Yukikaze
Overview: Yutaro Kida, a worker at the Sasebo Naval Arsenal, volunteers for the navy but finds himself a cook's mate in the galley of a gunboat. But his dream is eventually realized when he is transferred to the new and powerful destroyer Yukikaze which he helped to build. When the Pacific War breaks out Yukikaze performs valiantly in the South Pacific, and while on shore leave, Kida meets and falls in love with Yukiko, younger sister of his commander.
Genres: War Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-02-16
Popularity:
Blood and Law
1965-08-29
Blood and Law
Overview: Based on the autobiography of Noboru Andô .
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-08-29
Popularity:
Rise and Fall of Chivalry
1970-02-21
Rise and Fall of Chivalry
Overview: A reformed gangster agrees to help a former yakuza member.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-02-21
Popularity:
The Gambler's Counterattack
1971-10-14
The Gambler's Counterattack
Overview: Aiba is a gang boss who has just got out of jail, and finds everything has changed. His old gang has broken up, and only a few people still respect him. So he becomes a consultant to another gang who are about to be clobbered by a much larger gang moving in from out of town. Aiba proves a crafty tactician, and does very well at playing gangs off against each other in order to save the smaller gang. His advice is not always taken by those he tries to help, but he is generally proved right.
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1971-10-14
Popularity:
Organized Violence
1967-02-25
Organized Violence
Overview: A war breaks out on the streets between rivaling Yakuza clans.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-02-25
Popularity:
Informal Dress
1972-10-12
Informal Dress
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1972-10-12
Popularity:
Japan's Violent Gangs: The Boss and the Killers
1969-11-20
Japan's Violent Gangs: The Boss and the Killers
Overview: An honorable yakuza syndicate deeply rooted in Kyoto fights for survival when a new breed of gangsters threaten their very existence.
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-11-20
Popularity:
The Kii River
1966-06-11
The Kii River
Overview: Epic saga of an idealistic land-owning family dealing with militarism, war, social change and economic reform.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-06-11
Popularity:
Gang Loyalty and Vengeance
1963-10-20
Gang Loyalty and Vengeance
Overview: A modern gang version of Chushingura, chronicling almost scene for scene the Brave 47 Ronin story, transposed from the Genroku Period to the Showa Era.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-10-20
Popularity:
Mist and Shadows
1961-08-26
Mist and Shadows
Overview: The film adaptation of the bestseller of the same name by Tsutomu Mizukami. A large-scale detective drama in which two newspaper reporters investigate the mysterious death of a teacher in Hokuriku and the dark suspicions that lurk behind it.
Genres: Thriller Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-08-26
Popularity:
The Sacrifice of the Human Torpedoes
1955-01-09
The Sacrifice of the Human Torpedoes
Overview:
Genres: War
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1955-01-09
Popularity:
Female Slave Ship
1960-01-03
Female Slave Ship
Overview: The year is 1945, months prior to Japan's ultimate defeat in WW2, and military lieutenant Sugawa is sent on a critical mission to deliver micro-fiche war plans to Tokyo from his base in Malaysia. But while flying over Chinese waters his plane is shot down and he is taken aboard a ship bound for Shanghai to deliver its merchandise - a ship filled with Female Slaves kidnapped from Japan. Will he abandon the women to pursue his main objective? Or will he fight foes, spies and pirates to save these women against all odds?
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1960-01-03
Popularity:
The Sand Boat
1980-05-31
The Sand Boat
Overview: A Young couple find a boad buried under a beach,and are taken to another world where they must face a Deadly cult who want to sacrifice them.
Genres: Horror Fantasy Romance
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1980-05-31
Popularity:
Japan's Top Gangster
1973-08-11
Japan's Top Gangster
Overview: A boy born in a poor village in Tokushima spends his days idly until a chance meeting sets him on the road to becoming boss of Japan's largest gang.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1973-08-11
Popularity:
The Twilight Samurai
2002-11-02
The Twilight Samurai
Overview: Seibei Iguchi leads a difficult life as a low ranking samurai at the turn of the nineteenth century. A widower with a meager income, Seibei struggles to take care of his two daughters and senile mother. New prospects seem to open up when the beautiful Tomoe, a childhood friend, comes back into he and his daughters' life, but as the Japanese feudal system unravels, Seibei is still bound by the code of honor of the samurai and by his own sense of social precedence. How can he find a way to do what is best for those he loves?
Genres: Drama Romance
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2002-11-02
Popularity:
Operation Plazma in Osaka
1976-01-31
Operation Plazma in Osaka
Overview: Amidst Japan's postwar economic boom, yakuza factions in Osaka fight for survival when Japan's largest crime syndicate plans a hostile takeover.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1976-01-31
Popularity:
Organized Crime: Killer's Glory
1972-05-27
Organized Crime: Killer's Glory
Overview: A professional lone-wolf hitman comes to his blood brother's aid when his boss is brutally murdered by an unknown yakuza faction.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1972-05-27
Popularity:
1750 Days of Turbulence
1990-09-15
1750 Days of Turbulence
Overview: After the death of previous Boss, a gang war lasts for more than four years.
Genres: Crime Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1990-09-15
Popularity:
Abashiri Prison: Duel in Hokkaido
1967-04-20
Abashiri Prison: Duel in Hokkaido
Overview:
Genres: Action Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-04-20
Popularity:
Postwar Secrets
1970-06-04
Postwar Secrets
Overview: Everybody's chasing a diamond in Sadao Nakajima's crime/action/drama. It was a based on a novel by Tsusai Sugawara, who was a Japanese writer and political figure campaigning against drugs, prostitution and sexually transmitted diseases.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-06-04
Popularity:
The Domain: Kanto Legends of Chivalry
1965-08-12
The Domain: Kanto Legends of Chivalry
Overview: Third part of Nihon Kyokakuden series is set in Kanto in 1924. Ken Takakura playing a ship's mate befriending fish shop owners harassed by yakuza.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-08-12
Popularity:
Murderer!
1976-10-16
Murderer!
Overview: A cowardly samurai is sent as an official executioner targeting the clan's former sword instructor, a man whose sword and spear skills are second to none.
Genres: Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1976-10-16
Popularity:
The Bushido Blade
1981-06-19
The Bushido Blade
Overview: A steel samurai blade that was to be given to the American ambassador by the Emperor of Japan is stolen. American sailors and Japanese samurai are sent to find it.
Genres: History Action Drama
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1981-06-19
Popularity:
Tale of Ninja Duty
1965-02-25
Tale of Ninja Duty
Overview: Mumyo Tsunataro killed his betrayed fiance Orie and He flees to Utsunomiya. On his way he happens to saves Chisaka Hyobu's daughter Oyu (She is exactly like Orie) be attacked by ninja. Thus he stays Chisaka's residence in Yonezawa. Chisaka was just trying to stop Forty-seven ronin's revenge against Kira Kozukenosuke by female ninja's sexual entrapment. Chisaka asks Tsunataro to lead female ninja. Tsunataro accepts the request on condition of marriage to Oyu.
Genres: Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-02-25
Popularity:
Love: Starting on a Journey
1985-01-26
Love: Starting on a Journey
Overview: A girl suffering from an incurable disease get in a coma, while her boyfriend visit her to the hospital, she visits the beyond.
Genres: Fantasy Mystery Romance
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1985-01-26
Popularity:
Emperor & Empress Meiji and the Sino-Japanese War
1958-03-14
Emperor & Empress Meiji and the Sino-Japanese War
Overview:
Genres: History War
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1958-03-14
Popularity:
Karafuto 1945 Summer
1974-08-17
Karafuto 1945 Summer
Overview: The film is set in Karafuto after the radio broadcast of the Imperial Rescript on the Termination of the War. On August 15, 1945, Soviet forces invaded Karafuto. On August 20, the postal telegraph office in Maoka suspended operations and nine of the twelve telephone operators committed suicide by taking potassium cyanide while the city was being invaded.
Genres: Drama War History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1974-08-17
Popularity:
Yakuza Warfare
1991-11-09
Yakuza Warfare
Overview: Two childhood friends find themselves caught in the midst of an all-out turf war between rival factions in the yakuza-stained region of Kyushu.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1991-11-09
Popularity:
School Be-In Bully
1990-08-25
School Be-In Bully
Overview: The prestigious private Sakuraryo Gakuen, which has a 90-year tradition, has now lost its glory to the ground, and the back organization of the athletic club, the male “Black Warriors” and the female “Red Warriors”, have made use of them. One girl, Oda Yoko, who has transferred to such a school, sneaks into the principal's room to find out the truth of the death of her best friend, Atsushi Katayama
Genres: Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1990-08-25
Popularity:
Vendetta of Obligation
1985-12-30
Vendetta of Obligation
Overview: This is the story of the 47 ronin of the Ako clan who rose up to avenge the brutal death of their beloved master Asano Takumi-no-kami after his failed attack on the vile Lord Kira led to his being ordered to commit ritual suicide in a garden on the grounds of the shogun's palace.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1985-12-30
Popularity:
The Great Duel
1964-09-05
The Great Duel
Overview: In this gritty tale of gamblers battling in the samurai era, Okawa Hashizo gives perhaps his greatest performance as a gambler returning to his home town. Swearing allegiance to his fiancée’s father, a decent boss, he had taken to the road after a gang fight until things cooled down. While honing his sword skills in his travels, everything in the town had changed and he descended into a virtual hell of violence. Opponents were being slaughtered by a former samurai ‘Bodyguard’ played by Tanba Tetsuro at the height of his amazing career. While these two master swordsmen are fated to meet, before that can even happen they must survive one of the longest, bloodiest swordfights in movie history!
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-09-05
Popularity:
The Human Revolution
1973-09-08
The Human Revolution
Overview:
Genres: Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1973-09-08
Popularity:
The Making Of The Katakuris
2001-10-31
The Making Of The Katakuris
Overview: In this contemporary documentary, the cast and the crew share their experiences of making the film.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2001-10-31
Popularity:
Game of Chance 3
1967-10-21
Game of Chance 3
Overview: Bungo, fulfilling his duty as a yakuza, kills a man from a rival gang. Since then, he has escaped the clan's vengeance by staying on the road with his son Kenichi. Tired of running, the two settle in a mountain town. Bungo finds work as a lumberjack for the Iwasaki family and Kenichi becomes a student at the local elementary school. Regrettably, their good fortune doesn't last. The yakuza boss, Tomitaka, wants control of the town's lumber and is willing to destroy the Iwasaki to get it. Natsue, Kenichi's estranged no-good mother, returns wanting to take part in the boy's upbringing. And shortly thereafter, a mysterious stranger arrives in town to lay claim on Bungo's life...
Genres: Action Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-10-21
Popularity:
Company Buggers
1975-08-09
Company Buggers
Overview: Hiroshi, a small-time racketeer, makes a name for himself extorting vulnerable companies and their directors for financial gain.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1975-08-09
Popularity:
Gamblers and Racketeers
1964-12-24
Gamblers and Racketeers
Overview: Komatsu Takioka is boss of a Yakuza group rival to Masakichi Kijima boss of the Kikuya group which supports the town vendors unlike Takioka, who will stop at nothing to undermine the vendors and take over the territory. Masakichi will do all he can to protect and support the people. Ryutaro Kijima is senior son to Masakichi, though disowned, he keeps interest in the family from a distance. He will be there for his father and his hot tempered younger brother Katsuo, if they should need his loyal help.
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-12-24
Popularity:
New Abashiri Prison Story: Honor and Humanity, Ammunition That Attracts the Storm
1972-08-12
New Abashiri Prison Story: Honor and Humanity, Ammunition That Attracts the Storm
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1972-08-12
Popularity:
Cabaret
1986-04-26
Cabaret
Overview: A young jazz musician's desire to advance in his career runs afoul of organized crime in this thriller from Haruki Kadokawa. After a saxophonist starts playing at a particular nightspot, a thug from the Yakuza adopts him as a special friend for no greater reason than he plays one of his favorite songs well. As the dangerous life of the gangster intertwines with that of the musician, it brings harm to the musician's girlfriend, who is raped. This changes the young saxophonist's attitude about his patron, but his Yakuza "friend" is still too embroiled in his own problems to worry about anything else.
Genres: Drama Crime Music
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1986-04-26
Popularity:
Secret Prophecies of Nostradamus
1974-07-25
Secret Prophecies of Nostradamus
Overview: A documentary about the 1974 film Prophecies of Nostradamus, released to coincide with the latter's release. It featured several prophets and experts on meteorology and food ecology giving their respective takes on the 1999 apocalypse which Nostradamus predicted. Performers Hiroshi Itsuki, Shizue Abe and Linda Yamamoto appeared as well as the film's stars, Tetsuro Tanba, Yoko Tsukasa, Toshio Kurosawa and Yumi Kaoru.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1974-07-25
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Message from Space
1978-04-29
Message from Space
Overview: The peaceful planet of Jillucia has been nearly wiped out by the Gavanas, whose leader takes orders from his mother rather than the Emperor. King Kaiba sends out eight Liabe holy seeds, each to be received by a chosen one to defend the Gavanas. Each recipient, ranging from hardened General Garuda to Gavana Prince Hans to young Terrans Meia, Kido, and Aaron all have different reactions to being chosen.
Genres: Action Adventure Science Fiction
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1978-04-29
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The Stupid Teacher
2000-09-30
The Stupid Teacher
Overview: Film director Mario Baba meets a mysterious gentleman, and realizes he is a important man from his boyhood. The two chase each other around, causing a lot of commotion.
Genres: Fantasy Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2000-09-30
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The Supernormal II
1993-03-03
The Supernormal II
Overview: Pseudo-documentary sequel.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: cn
Release Date: 1993-03-03
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Sugata Sanshiro
1977-10-29
Sugata Sanshiro
Overview: The story of Sanshiro Sugata, a young man who wants to learn the new art of judo. A wise teacher reveals to Sanshiro that judo is not merely a means of combat nor a demonstration of physical skill, but an art which reveals the artist to himself.
Genres: Drama Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1977-10-29
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Troops of Darkness
1971-11-10
Troops of Darkness
Overview: A disgraced yakuza member, framed for the murder of his boss, emerges from prison eight years later with revenge on his mind.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1971-11-10
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Teruo Ishii Fan Club
2006-08-12
Teruo Ishii Fan Club
Overview: A documentary on Teruo Ishii, the Japanese "King of Cult".
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2006-08-12
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Taira no Kiyomori
1992-07-25
Taira no Kiyomori
Overview: The tale of Taira Kiyomori who started as a young inexperienced warrior who led the Heike into the battle against the brutal pirates on Setouchi.
Genres: History Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1992-07-25
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The Great Shogunate Battle
1991-12-14
The Great Shogunate Battle
Overview: The early days of the Tokugawa shogunate are brought to light in this exciting historical tale of broken vows and violent swordplay. In an ambush reminiscent of Miike’s 13 Assassins, although pre-dating that incident by 160 years, the heir to the shogun’s seat is brutally cut down by those who hope to install the emperor’s 5th son as military leader of the nation.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1991-12-14
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Gang and G-Men Part 2
1963-02-24
Gang and G-Men Part 2
Overview: A gang plans to steal twenty billion yen by safecracking tactics; however, they discover that one of the gang members is an infiltrating cop.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-02-24
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Lone Rebel
1969-09-13
Lone Rebel
Overview: Nomi-gumi, who plans to control Tama City, has begun to hurt Takase-gumi. Muraki, an executive, was entrusted with the destruction, but he was a brother of Takase-gumi's substitute, Tsukada. Muraki, who missed Tsukada and the old days at Tsukada's wife Shizue's shop, took the future of turning to the enemy painfully.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-09-13
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The Corporation
1976-08-14
The Corporation
Overview:
Genres: Drama Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1976-08-14
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T.R.Y.
2003-01-11
T.R.Y.
Overview: At the turn of the 20th Century amongst tension between China and Japan, a Japanese swindler in Shanghai plans to profit by selling weapons. He steals arms from the Japanese military and sells them to the rich Chinese.
Genres: Action Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2003-01-11
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Hell's Kitchen
1962-10-12
Hell's Kitchen
Overview:
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-10-12
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Drive for the Future
1980-10-25
Drive for the Future
Overview:
Genres: Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1980-10-25
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花眞珠
1955-08-22
花眞珠
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1955-08-22
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Tabaruzaka
1987-12-30
Tabaruzaka
Overview: Known as the ”Last Samurai” Saigo Takamori was a stout giant of a man with a huge head and a neck like a bear. As the leader of Satsuma’s anti-Western faction, he was instumental in establishing the Sat-Cho Alliance dreamed of by Sakamoto Ryoma. After the fall of the Tokugawa, Saigo rose to major prominence before falling in disfavor. In 1876 Saigo Takamori resigned from his government post and went back to Kagoshima. He founded a local military school and dissatisfied samurai gathered around him in large numbers. In late 1876 it came to an open conflict when samurai rebels raided and occupied ammunition and weapon depots of the central government. The samurai rebels urged and proclaimed Saigo Takamori as their leader. While the Tom Cruise movie fictionalized Saigo’s life story, this is history come to life in the most exciting rendition with an all-star cast that is not to be missed!
Genres: Action Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1987-12-30
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The Prosecutor and His Sister
1956-05-18
The Prosecutor and His Sister
Overview:
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1956-05-18
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Tetsuro Tamba's Great Spirit World: What Happens When You Die
1989-01-14
Tetsuro Tamba's Great Spirit World: What Happens When You Die
Overview: Visualization based on Tetsuro Tamba's best-selling "Great Reikai". A story about a physicist who dies in an accident and experiences the afterlife as a spirit. The leading role is Tamba Tetsuro's biological son, Tamba Yoshitaka.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1989-01-14
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Admiral Yamamoto and the Allied Fleets
1956-07-21
Admiral Yamamoto and the Allied Fleets
Overview: Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto leads the Combined Fleet of the Imperial Japanese Navy to defeat the American Fleet.
Genres: War
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1956-07-21
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The Hitman Blood Smells Like Roses
1991-06-14
The Hitman Blood Smells Like Roses
Overview: A woman is being attacked by the yakuza of the Mitsuyoshi group ... A man with a pistol appears dashingly and shoots the yakuza without question now the yakuza want him dead
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1991-06-14
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Zero sen no jorō gun
1960-01-13
Zero sen no jorō gun
Overview: Japanese crime film.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1960-01-13
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Snake Woman's Curse
1968-07-12
Snake Woman's Curse
Overview: An old man dies of heartbreak when a cruel landlord is about to repossess his land. The old man haunts the landlord from the grave. Since the man died in debt, his wife and daughter are indentured servants and are forced to work in the landlord's factory.
Genres: Horror
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-07-12
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Tokyo: The Last War
1989-09-15
Tokyo: The Last War
Overview: The year is 1945. After the horrific fire-bombings of the Pacific War levels Japan to the ground, the government decides to consult spiritual psychics to aid them in winning the war. Unfortunately, the resentment and agony of the souls of the fire-bombing victims culminate together to revive the evil Onmyoji, Yasunori Kato. Only a young, psychically imbued apprentice of the priests will dare fight against the evil magic user. However, can this lone man possibly contend with Kato's overwhelming power?
Genres: Fantasy Science Fiction Horror
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1989-09-15
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Yakuza Demon
2003-06-25
Yakuza Demon
Overview: Seiji and Yoshifumi are the only members of the Muto branch of the Date Family. The two respect and love their leader, Mr. Muto, like a father and the three share a firm bond. But their fate is sealed when the Family is involved in a conflict. Muto is unable to pay his share of funds for the oncoming battle but tells executives of the Family that he would fight at the front line instead. In the wish to protect Muto, Seiji has him arrested by the police. Ignoring the Family executives' mocks of "Muto escaped to prison", Seiji prepares for the battle and attacks like a demon on behalf of his boss...
Genres: Action Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2003-06-25
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Lady Vengeance and the 47 Ronin
1983-12-08
Lady Vengeance and the 47 Ronin
Overview: During the events of the Chushingura incident, Mumyo, a disgruntled Shogunate secret agent, retires from post, disillusioned by the concept of loyalty. Meanwhile, the leader of the Uesugi Clan, who is Lord Kira’s son, sends a group of Ninja assassins to kill the Ako Ronin before they take revenge on his father. But, the chief retainer of the clan sees the foolishness of this plan and hires Mumyo, along with a group of Female Ninja, to stop the assassins and destroy the Ako Ronin from the inside.
Genres: TV Movie Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1983-12-08
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High-Ranking Yakuza
1965-09-30
High-Ranking Yakuza
Overview: 1965 youth / yakuza film
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-09-30
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Tidal Wave
1975-05-28
Tidal Wave
Overview: Two hundred million years ago, Earth had a single continent. As the millennia progressed, the single continent slowly split off into smaller continents and islands. Thirty million years ago, the country of Japan was part of the continent of Asia, and has since split off into its own archipelago. Another landmass shift is about to occur...
Genres: Science Fiction Drama Thriller
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1975-05-28
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The Last Days of Planet Earth
1981-04-18
The Last Days of Planet Earth
Overview: In 1853, Gentetsu Nishiyama tells his students that the French prophet Nostaradamus foretells great change for Japan, some of his students revolt, calling his words heresy and his wife flees with a book of Nostradamus’s predictions… In the present day, Dr. Nishiyama has to combat increasingly bizarre goings on which seem all to familiar to the prophet's predictions…
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1981-04-18
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Diamonds of the Andes
1968-04-28
Diamonds of the Andes
Overview: Romantic action film set against the beautiful backdrop of Rio de Janeiro. Jiro Ibuki has decided to leave the world of the yakuza and live with his fiancée Reiko.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-04-28
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