Ken Takakura
Biography: Ken Takakura (高倉 健, Takakura Ken), born Gouichi Oda (February 16, 1931, in Kitakyūshū, Fukuoka, Japan), was a Japanese actor best known for his brooding style and the stoic presence he brings to his roles. Takakura gained his streetwise swagger and tough-guy persona watching yakuza turf battles over the lucrative black market and racketeering in postwar Fukuoka. This subject was covered in one of his most famous movies, Showa Zankyo-den (Remnants of Chivalry in the Showa Era), in which he played an honorable old-school yakuza among the violent post-war gurentai. A graduate of Meiji University in Tokyo Takakura happened by an audition in 1955 at the Toei Film Company, and decided to look in. Toei found a natural in Takakura as he debuted with Denko Karate Uchi (Lightning Karate Blow) in 1956. Japan experienced a boom in gangster films in the 1960s as the Japanese people struggled with the generational differences between those raised in pre-war and post-war Japan and these were Takakura's stock and trade. His breakout role would be in the 1965 film Abashiri Prison, and its sequel Abashiri Bangaichi: Bokyohen (Abashiri Prison: Longing for Home, also 1965), in which he played an ex-con antihero. By the time Takakura would leave Toei in 1976, he had appeared in over 180 films. Takakura gained international recognition after starring in the 1970 war film Too Late the Hero as the cunning Imperial Japanese Major Yamaguchi, the 1975 Sydney Pollack sleeper hit The Yakuza with Robert Mitchum and is probably best known in the West for his role in Ridley Scott's Black Rain (1989) where he surprises American cops played by Michael Douglas and Andy García with the line, "I do speak fucking English". He again proved himself bankable to Western audiences with the 1992 Fred Schepisi comedy Mr. Baseball starring Tom Selleck. While he has slowed down a bit in his older years, he is still active. His most recent film was the 2005 Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles by Chinese director Zhang Yimou. Description above from the Wikipedia article Ken Takakura, licensed under CC-BY-SA,full list of contributors on Wikipedia.
Place of Birth: Not available
Birthday: February 16, 1931
Deathday: November 10, 2014
Popularity:
Known For
The Longest Tunnel
1982-10-16
The Longest Tunnel
Overview: After a passenger ship sinks in 1954, Go Akutsu devises a life-saving project in the form of a tunnel under the Tsugaru Strait. While working on this project Akutsu becomes involved with Tae Makimura leading to his estrangement from his wife.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1982-10-16
Popularity:
Black Rain
1989-09-22
Black Rain
Overview: Two New York cops get involved in a gang war between members of the Yakuza, the Japanese Mafia. They arrest one of their killers and are ordered to escort him back to Japan. However, in Japan he manages to escape, and as they try to track him down, they get deeper and deeper into the Japanese Mafia scene and they have to learn that they can only win by playing the game—the Japanese way.
Genres: Drama Action Thriller
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1989-09-22
Popularity:
Operation Diamond
1962-12-09
Operation Diamond
Overview:
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-12-09
Popularity:
The Yellow Handkerchief
1977-09-30
The Yellow Handkerchief
Overview: The story is about a convict released from prison for an old murder who is thinking about returning to his ex-wife and his former life. If she puts a yellow handkerchief on the window, it would mean that she wants him back at home.
Genres: Comedy Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1977-09-30
Popularity:
47 Ronin
1994-10-22
47 Ronin
Overview: Kon Ichikawa's retelling of the classic true story of Samurai honor. When a young clan lord is forced to commit seppuku (ritual suicide), his loyal followers (now Ronin, masterless Samurai) dedicate their lives to avenging his death.
Genres: Action Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1994-10-22
Popularity:
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
Popularity:
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
Popularity:
A Dead Drifter
1959-05-13
A Dead Drifter
Overview: A Dead Drifter / Hyoryû shitaî
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1959-05-13
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:
Rogue
1968-10-12
Rogue
Overview: Coal miner Isamu Oba is forced to quit his village and leave his mother and siblings behind. Mining buddy Ichiro accompanies him to Tokyo, and the pair enjoy several "fish-out-of-water" sequences before finding employment at a boxing gym with trainer Sawada and his spunky sister Tomoko. The boys also find part time night jobs as roving minstrels in the club district courtesy of benevolent gang boss Asakawa. Of course, they run afoul of boss Karasawa's cruel gang. Karasawa also has it in for Asakawa, and this indirectly throws a spanner into the works as far as Isamu's burgeoning success as a kickboxer. When Asakawa 's HQ is burned to the ground by Karasawa's men, Asakawa tries to kill Karasawa - which, of course, leads to his own gruesome death. Isamu goes on the rampage with his sword, wiping out Karasawa and men.
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-10-12
Popularity:
The Yakuza
1974-12-21
The Yakuza
Overview: When George Tanner does business with high-ranking Yakuza Tono, Tono kidnaps his daughter, and George summons his old friend, private eye Harry Kilmer, to Japan to investigate.
Genres: Crime Drama Thriller
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1974-12-21
Popularity:
Men Fighting Whales
1957-07-09
Men Fighting Whales
Overview: A film about the rivalry between Captain Gondo and the harpooner Yosuke Yamagami, working on the best whaling ship Hayabusa Maru. One day they will have to face a giant, monstrous whale.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1957-07-09
Popularity:
Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles
2005-12-22
Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles
Overview: Takada, a Japanese fisherman has been estranged from his son for many years, but when the son is diagnosed with terminal cancer his daughter-in-law, Rie, summons him to the hospital. Through a series of obstacles and relationships, he is brought unexpectedly closer to both an understanding of himself and of his son.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: zh
Release Date: 2005-12-22
Popularity:
Tokyo Untouchable
1962-10-21
Tokyo Untouchable
Overview:
Genres: Crime Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-10-21
Popularity:
The Kamikaze Guy
1966-06-04
The Kamikaze Guy
Overview: An elaborate criminal tango based around treasure hidden during WWII.
Genres: Action Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-06-04
Popularity:
Antarctica
1983-07-23
Antarctica
Overview: Two Japanese scientists, Ushioda and Ochi, develop a bond with their sled dogs while on an expedition in Antarctica.
Genres: Drama Adventure
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1983-07-23
Popularity:
Bad Angel
1960-03-15
Bad Angel
Overview: One of the earliest of subeban/ girl boss type eiga
Genres: Action Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1960-03-15
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:
Mannen Taro and His Feminine Colleagues
1961-10-07
Mannen Taro and His Feminine Colleagues
Overview:
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-10-07
Popularity:
Mr. Baseball
1992-10-01
Mr. Baseball
Overview: Jack Elliot, a one-time MVP for the New York Yankees is now on the down side of his baseball career. With a falling batting average, does he have one good year left and can the manager of the Chunichi Dragons, a Japanese Central baseball league find it in him?
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1992-10-01
Popularity:
Tenka no Kaidanji Senpū Tarō
1961-02-14
Tenka no Kaidanji Senpū Tarō
Overview:
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-02-14
Popularity:
Railroad Man
1999-06-05
Railroad Man
Overview: A railway stationmaster at a dying end-of-the-line village in Hokkaido is haunted by memories of his dead wife and daughter. When the railroad line is scheduled to be closed, he is offered a job at a hotel, but he is emotionally unable to part with his career as a railroader. His life takes a turn when he meets a young woman with an interest in trains who resembles his daughter.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1999-06-05
Popularity:
Kyōkatsu
1963-09-14
Kyōkatsu
Overview:
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-09-14
Popularity:
Red Peony Gambler
1968-09-14
Red Peony Gambler
Overview: Ryuko was raised by her father, a gambler named Senzo Yano in Kumamoto, Kyushu, after her mother died when she was little. When she turned 18 years old, her father was attacked and killed by a stranger in alley. Ryuko then dissolves her yakuza family, and, carrying the wallet left by the killer, she sets out on a journey to avenge her father's death. Five years later, she wanders the nation, known only as! Red Peony Oryu who has a red peony tattooed on her shoulder and has the defiance and courage of a man. She meets Katagiri - a loner gambler, Kumatora - boss of a family in Shikoku, and Otaka - female boss of the Doman Family in Osaka. With their help, she finally catches up with the man who murdered her father.
Genres: Drama Action Comedy Thriller Romance
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-09-14
Popularity:
Manhunt
1976-02-11
Manhunt
Overview: A tough prosecutor is falsely accused of theft and goes on the run to clear his name. He is assisted by the beautiful daughter of a rich man.
Genres: Action Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1976-02-11
Popularity:
Main Street in the Underworld
1964-04-25
Main Street in the Underworld
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-04-25
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:
A Distant Cry from Spring
1980-03-15
A Distant Cry from Spring
Overview: The quiet life of a mother and her young son living on a farm in Hokkaido is changed by the arrival of a man who ignites flames of romance in the heart of the mother and shows her boy the importance of grit and kindness, but then he leaves with the autumn wind.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1980-03-15
Popularity:
Golgo 13
1973-12-29
Golgo 13
Overview: Live-action adaptation of the hit manga. Golgo 13, also known by the pseudonym Duke Togo, is a professional assassin. His age and birthplace are unknown and there is no consensus in the worldwide intelligence community as to his true identity. Most of his jobs are completed through the use of a customized, scoped M16 rifle. Golgo 13 is contracted to kill Boss Goa, the head of a worldwide crime syndicate responsible for drugs, weapons, and human trafficking.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1973-12-29
Popularity:
Hell's Companion
1959-06-01
Hell's Companion
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1959-06-01
Popularity:
Red Peony Gambler: Flower Cards Game
1969-02-01
Red Peony Gambler: Flower Cards Game
Overview: The third chapter of the ‘Red Peony Gambler’ saga depicts the happiness and sadness of Red Peony Oryu’s life as she seals her femininity with a red peony tattoo and lives in world of chivalry and honor of the yakuza. This story takes place in the middle of the Meiji era in Nagoya. Oryu is wandering the country, training herself to reinstate her family name. With a written recommendation from Kumatora, she appears at the door of the Nishinomaru family. At the same time, the family is preparing for the gambling competition at the Netsuda Shrine Festival, which they have been hosting for generations. Meanwhile, the crooked Kinbara family is plotting to take over the competition. And now Oryu is forced to get involved in the struggle…
Genres: Action Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-02-01
Popularity:
The Outsiders
1958-11-26
The Outsiders
Overview: A drama about relations between Japanese immigrants and the indigenous Ainu on Hokkaido, the most northerly island of Japan. From a novel by Taijun Takeda.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1958-11-26
Popularity:
Tokyo's Business District
1962-08-29
Tokyo's Business District
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-08-29
Popularity:
Brave Red Flower of the North
1970-01-09
Brave Red Flower of the North
Overview: An exciting tale of action on the distant northern island of Hokkaido around the beginning of the 20th Century starring two of the biggest names in Yakuza film history, Fuji Junko and Takakura Ken. Since the death of death of her father, Yuki who has traveled from her home in the southernmost part of Japan must fight corrupt local officials seeking to fill her late father's post. As her life is in danger a mysterious rifleman, played by Takakura Ken watches from the shadows. Can she finish the work her dear departed father started in an untamed land?
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-01-09
Popularity:
Miyamoto Musashi V: Musashi vs Kojiro
1965-09-04
Miyamoto Musashi V: Musashi vs Kojiro
Overview: The fifth and final installment with the build up of the epic battle between Sasaki Kojiro and Miyamoto Musashi. With all the familiar characters making appearances: Otsu (Musashi's great love), Akemi, Matahachi (his former fellow soldier), old lady Osugi (still doggedly trying to defeat Musashi), and even the return of Priest Takuan (the man responsible for his journey towards enlightenment). But most of all, the boastful, long-haired and long-sworded Sasaki Kojiro.
Genres: Action Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-09-04
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:
Buddies
1989-11-03
Buddies
Overview: Based on a celebrated book by Kuniko Mukoda, this film directed by Yasuo Furuhata tells of a close friendship undone by love.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1989-11-03
Popularity:
Station
1981-11-07
Station
Overview: A detective goes out of his way to crack the case of a serial killer who specialises in murdering police officers.
Genres: Drama Thriller Romance
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1981-11-07
Popularity:
A Fugitive from the Past
1965-01-15
A Fugitive from the Past
Overview: Three robbers escape with loot from a heist before one of them kills the others. Their corpses wash up near the aftermath of a maritime calamity, provoking a policeman's interest.
Genres: Crime Drama Mystery
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-01-15
Popularity:
Dearest
2012-08-25
Dearest
Overview: The posthumous wish of Eiji's wife is for her ashes to be scattered in the ocean near her hometown. Eiji also learns that his wife letter for him at the post office before she died.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2012-08-25
Popularity:
Contemporary Tales of Chivalry 2
1966-01-13
Contemporary Tales of Chivalry 2
Overview: Hidejiro is a wandering yakuza with a ‘karashi botan’ (Chinese lion and peony) tattoo. Owing a favor to the Soda Family, he kills the boss of the rival Sakaki Family. When the Soda attacks the Sakaki and double-crosses him, with sword in hand, Hidejiro seeks brutal retribution.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-01-13
Popularity:
Contemporary Tales of Chivalry: The Lone Wolf
1966-07-09
Contemporary Tales of Chivalry: The Lone Wolf
Overview: The karashi Botan returns in the third chapter of the incredible Showa Zankoden series. This time legendary actor Ken Takakura plays Takei Shigejiro of the Shimazu family. When the boss of the Shimazu is killed, Shigejiro takes revenge and is sent to jail. Upon his release, he meets the dying widow of one of hid followers and takes her to her father, Boss Shiomasa, who take him into his family. But when Shiomasa is killed by an old enemy, Shigejiro is obligated to take revenge...
Genres: Crime Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-07-09
Popularity:
Demon
1985-08-31
Demon
Overview: Shuji was once a feared member of the Yakuza crime syndicate, but he's reformed his ways, abandoned his old life and left the city for a small coastal fishing town where he's become an honest fisherman.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1985-08-31
Popularity:
Contemporary Tales of Chivalry 4
1967-07-08
Contemporary Tales of Chivalry 4
Overview: Fierce war breaks out when Shujiro’s rival clan attempts to sabotage his lucrative construction business.
Genres: Crime Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-07-08
Popularity:
Manchurian Sunset
1956-09-18
Manchurian Sunset
Overview: A film adaptation of the original novel by Kazuo Dan. This exciting film, set in Asia on the eve of violent changes, tells the story of a young man Rinnosuke Date, who, following his dream, love and passion, breaks through the blood- and dust-drenched land of Manchuria with a pistol in a piercing wind.
Genres: Adventure Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1956-09-18
Popularity:
Brutal Tales of Chivalry 5: Man With The Karajishi Tattoo
1969-03-06
Brutal Tales of Chivalry 5: Man With The Karajishi Tattoo
Overview: Hidejuro is sent to prison after killing the boss of a rival family. After being released, he discovers that his family has scattered and he is taken in by a company of quarry workers, whose boss has a strict code of non-violence. When the rival family tries to take over the company and kills their boss, Hidejuro must choose between his promise of non-violence and his yakuza code of revenge...
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-03-06
Popularity:
Brutal Tales of Chivalry 7: Hell Is a Man's Destiny
1970-09-22
Brutal Tales of Chivalry 7: Hell Is a Man's Destiny
Overview: Young yakuza Shujiro Hanada goes to prison after losing his cool in a rigged gambling game and slashing a few other players. When he's released in 1927, the world has changed. His sister died in the Great Kanto Earthquake and his father is also gone. His brother Jukichi invites him to stay at his in-laws and works in their family pub. He lies low, helping his blind mother-in-law and slowly developing a relationship with Ikuye, the hostess who helped him before his arrest. But trouble lurks when the resident gang decides to show its strength.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-09-22
Popularity:
Brutal Tales of Chivalry
1965-10-01
Brutal Tales of Chivalry
Overview: After World War II, their town was a pile of rubble. Gennosuke, the second generation boss of the Kamizu Group was upholding yakuza chivalry by keeping black-market and illegal items out of their open-air market. Taking advantage of the mess, Iwasa and his gang take hold of goods from the US military, black-market and controlled items in order to become the most powerful group in Enko area.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-10-01
Popularity:
Showdown in Blood
1957-08-28
Showdown in Blood
Overview: Hayata and his best friend Ushijima came to Tokyo to become champions. Hayata repeatedly sought to join Tamura's boxing club, but Tamura fell in love with Ushijima's punch. Then Hayata decides to become Ushijima's manager and make good money on his friend's talent. Ushijima himself is a peaceful, kind guy who doesn't really like boxing, but under the wise guidance of Hayata, he starts to defeat one opponent after another...
Genres: Drama Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1957-08-28
Popularity:
If You're Man Enough
1960-11-29
If You're Man Enough
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1960-11-29
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:
Wolves, Pigs & Men
1964-08-26
Wolves, Pigs & Men
Overview: Sabu and his pals hold a pauper's funeral for Sabu's mother. His brother Jiro arrives home, fresh out of jail, and Sabu pointedly states that Jiro is not invited. Jiro meanwhile is planning a big job - steal 40 million in cash and drugs, and he invites Sabu and gang to act as decoys, for 50,000 each. The sting is a success, but the double-crossing starts almost immediately. Sabu discovers how little of the take they were promised and hides the stash. Jiro and his slimy partner pressure the kids to fess up. Meanwhile, their respectable elder brother Ichiro is being leaned on by the town's big boss, whose money it was.
Genres: Drama Crime Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-08-26
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:
The Man
1971-12-03
The Man
Overview: Japanese movie.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1971-12-03
Popularity:
Karate Cop
1982-04-17
Karate Cop
Overview: A martial arts master/detective investigates a series of murders and helps a deaf bathhouse attendant, Hisako.
Genres: Action Comedy Romance
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1982-04-17
Popularity:
Tokyo Untouchable: Escape
1963-03-15
Tokyo Untouchable: Escape
Overview:
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-03-15
Popularity:
The Kanto Scarlet Cherry Gang
1972-03-04
The Kanto Scarlet Cherry Gang
Overview: The Ni Family is the most well know and respected group of firefighters in the Kanto region. When their leader dies and the successor disappears, Tsuruji, a beautiful yet tough geisha, becomes the boss. But will she be able to confront a yakuza gang trying to take over the area?
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1972-03-04
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:
Winter's Flower
1978-06-17
Winter's Flower
Overview: Kanno is a Yakuza. He had to kill Matsuoka who betrayed their boss. Kanno knew Matsuoka had a 3-year-old daughter named Youko. Before he gave himself to the police, he asked his trusted man to take care of her. While in prison, Kanno kept sending letters to Youko, disguising as an uncle in Brazil. 15 years later, Kanno is released. He is determined to live legitimately, however the Yakuza has not forgotten his wicked deed!
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1978-06-17
Popularity:
The Firefly
2001-05-01
The Firefly
Overview: Japanese film icon Ken Takakura, who has starred in over 100 films, stars in this elegiac look at war and remembrance. Hideji Yamaoka (Takakura) was a suicide pilot during the war who somehow survived Japan's surrender. After decades of working as a fisherman in Kumamoto, a provincial seaside city in southern Kyushu, Yamaoka remains reluctant to discuss his wartime experiences with anyone, much less an intrusive reporter looking for a feature story. Then a series of events shake Yamaoka to the core, forcing him to re-evaluate his past.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2001-05-01
Popularity:
G-men of Japan 4: Special Armed Unit Mobilization
1956-07-25
G-men of Japan 4: Special Armed Unit Mobilization
Overview: The fourth installment of G-men of Japan
Genres: Crime Drama Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1956-07-25
Popularity:
Robert Mitchum: The Reluctant Star
1991-03-10
Robert Mitchum: The Reluctant Star
Overview: A retrospective on the career of Robert Mitchum through interviews with friends and co-workers, scenes from his films and the actor himself.
Genres: Documentary TV Movie
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1991-03-10
Popularity:
The Domain
1964-08-13
The Domain
Overview: The feud between two rival delivery companies, Kibamasa and Okiyama, heats up as the head of Kibamasa falls ill.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-08-13
Popularity:
The Homeless
1974-10-09
The Homeless
Overview: Two inmates are simultaneously released from jail, but go their separate ways, only to cross paths again in the nearest brothel. There they make the acquaintance of a would-be prostitute. They help her escape and decide to guide her on her quest for sunken contraband somewhere off the coast.
Genres: Crime Action Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1974-10-09
Popularity:
A Portrait of the Author
1984-08-26
A Portrait of the Author
Overview: Actor Takakura Ken visits Santa Cruz in Portugal and traces the footsteps of the writer Dan Kazuo, who spent his last years living there.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1984-08-26
Popularity:
Too Late the Hero
1970-05-20
Too Late the Hero
Overview: A WWII film set on a Pacific island. Japanese and allied forces occupy different parts of the island. When a group of British soldiers are sent on a mission behind enemy lines, things don't go exactly to plan. This film differs in that some of the 'heroes' are very reluctant, but they come good when they are pursued by the Japanese who are determined to prevent them returning to base.
Genres: Drama Action War
Original Language: en
Release Date: 1970-05-20
Popularity:
Contemporary Tales of Chivalry: Forbidden Love
1971-10-27
Contemporary Tales of Chivalry: Forbidden Love
Overview: A story of lone wolf struggling with human compassion and duty.
Genres: Crime Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1971-10-27
Popularity:
Lightning Karate Blow
1956-01-29
Lightning Karate Blow
Overview: Ken Takakura's screen debut, following his admission into Toei ranks via the studio's annual New Faces program, came surprisingly enough in this pair of Okinawa karate films. The two-parter was released on Jan. 29, 1956 as two thirds of a triple feature. Both halves run just under one hour. The fighting is actually pretty good for the time, and it's fun to see Takakura as an impatient, bearded karate rascal.
Genres: Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1956-01-29
Popularity:
Prison Boss
1968-04-18
Prison Boss
Overview: Rival gangs fight over ownership of bicycle race track.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-04-18
Popularity:
Choji Snack Bar
1983-11-12
Choji Snack Bar
Overview: Eiji lives a quiet life running a small Izakaya with his wife. He spends his days cooking for and serving the lively residents of his small hometown.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1983-11-12
Popularity:
The Day the Sun Rose
1968-11-23
The Day the Sun Rose
Overview: Shinkichi, a peasant employed as a cloth-dyer, has a dream: in the midst of the civil war which ravages Japan, he hopes to revive the long-banned custom of the Kyoto Gion Festival, and by doing so, bring together the warring clans and rampaging brigands in peaceful celebration.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-11-23
Popularity:
The Path of the King
1971-03-06
The Path of the King
Overview: When the aging leader of the yakuza gang Maeda-gumi decides to retire, many of the gang members have no confidence in the young man he has chosen to replace him. A fight for the succession begins.
Genres: Crime Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1971-03-06
Popularity:
The Deep Blue Sea
1957-07-30
The Deep Blue Sea
Overview: To fulfill a friend’s dying wish, a young sailor Kenji takes on the task of delivering an heirloom to his friend’s daughter, Harumi, who has been adopted by another family. When he arrives, Kenji soon discovers that Harumi and her adopted family are the targets of an evil gang boss. In an attempt to help them, he decides to take matters into his own hands.
Genres: Drama Music
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1957-07-30
Popularity:
Classmates
1967-06-03
Classmates
Overview: A story of young students trained to become Kamikaze pilots in World War II.
Genres: Drama War
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-06-03
Popularity:
The Last Kamikaze
1970-10-29
The Last Kamikaze
Overview: With World War II is coming to its end and Japan nearing defeat, Japanese military leaders step up suicide attacks on Allied ships. Toei legend Koji Tsuruta stars as a Kamikaze squad leader who has second thoughts about suicide runs. He becomes torn between his own morality and his duty to his country when he must deal with a pilot under his command who refuses to complete his mission.
Genres: War Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-10-29
Popularity:
The Prickly Mouthed Geisha Part 2
1960-03-01
The Prickly Mouthed Geisha Part 2
Overview: Young geisha Kohana scrambles to realize her dream of bringing back her grandmother’s restaurant business.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1960-03-01
Popularity:
The Revolt
1980-01-15
The Revolt
Overview: When a young soldier is killed while trying to prevent his younger sister, Kaoru, from being sold into a life of prostitution, his commander, Col. Miyagi, tries to honor his dying wish to rescue his sister. Upon finding Kaoru at a party working as a geisha and later rescuing her from committing suicide, Col. Miyagi allows her to move in with him. Over time, the two grow close, but in spite of Kaoru's growing feelings for him, Col. Miyagi is unable to bring himself to return her love. On the night of his deployment to war, Col. Miyagi finally admits his feelings for Kaoru, but will they ever be able to enjoy a peaceful life together now that a very violent and bloody military revolt is under way...
Genres: War Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1980-01-15
Popularity:
With Songs in My Heart
1958-09-10
With Songs in My Heart
Overview: Sayuri, a young woman born to a simple life on a farm, moves to Tokyo to pursue a life long dream of becoming a singer. Through dance, music, and songs, this story shows how a girl raised on a farm was able to make her dream a reality, with the love of those around her.
Genres: Drama Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1958-09-10
Popularity:
The Sand City in Manchuria
1960-08-24
The Sand City in Manchuria
Overview: When the plague threatens a small town in Manchuria, a young doctor finds himself struggling to save the lives of his townspeople.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1960-08-24
Popularity:
Prison Walls of Abashiri 4
1965-12-31
Prison Walls of Abashiri 4
Overview: A gripping tale of friendship set against the backdrop of Hokkaido. Shinichi sets out to earn a few honest dollars with which to bail a friend out of jail.
Genres: Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-12-31
Popularity:
New Prison Walls of Abashiri
1968-12-28
New Prison Walls of Abashiri
Overview: Former soldier, Suehiro Katsuji, fights violent gangs and powerful Chinese merchants during the post-war period in Japan.
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-12-28
Popularity:
Flower, Storm and Gangster
1961-06-23
Flower, Storm and Gangster
Overview: A gang of bank robbers plan a big robbery, but they all plot to betray each other after the heist for different reasons.
Genres: Comedy Crime Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-06-23
Popularity:
Romance Freestyle
1958-04-30
Romance Freestyle
Overview: The love between young college students Toki and the handsome Takaga is tested when Takaya's parents, who despise Toki's family's geisha house business, intervenes in their relationship.
Genres: Comedy Romance
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1958-04-30
Popularity:
Four Hours of Terror
1959-09-30
Four Hours of Terror
Overview: Airline captain saves passengers from a brutal murderer on a plane during four hours of terror.
Genres: Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1959-09-30
Popularity:
Devil's Nursery Rhyme
1961-11-15
Devil's Nursery Rhyme
Overview: 1961 Toei adaptation of Yokomizo's novel.
Genres: Mystery Horror
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-11-15
Popularity:
Jet Air Base 101
1957-12-15
Jet Air Base 101
Overview: The first batch of flight control officer candidates, full of yearning for the sky, are assembled at the 101st Air Regiment base. Nakata, Sato, and the other cadets undergo intensive training under Captain Kotani, a famous pilot, but gradually begin to resent his strict leadership. A youthful story that vividly portrays the young pilots of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force who place their hopes in the sky. Japan's first full-length film about jet aviation, it was shot on location at the Hamamatsu Air Self-Defense Force Base over an extended period of time, with dozens of jets being mobilized for the filming.
Genres: War Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1957-12-15
Popularity:
Sister with Sister
1958-12-09
Sister with Sister
Overview: Yoshiko finds new life and love interests when she takes a new job as an office worker.
Genres: Comedy Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1958-12-09
Popularity:
Detective Duel
1958-08-06
Detective Duel
Overview: A friendly rivalry turns into romance for Yukiko, an elite female detective, and a handsome private eye named Mitamura while both are investigating the missing person's case from a wealthy family.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1958-08-06
Popularity:
A Fishwife's Tale
1961-05-31
A Fishwife's Tale
Overview: Hibari Misora plays Yoshiko, the popular daughter of a fish market owner. After discovering that she was adopted, she sets out to help her biological father who has fallen victim to an evil plot orchestrated by those who would take over his successful business.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-05-31
Popularity:
Glorious Fights
1966-10-29
Glorious Fights
Overview: A young leader of the Yamazaki family of Nagasaki, Takida (Ken Takakura) is an A-bomb survivor. He fiercely battles violent elements in southern Japan like there is no tomorrow.
Genres: Drama Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-10-29
Popularity:
Hishakaku and Kiratsune: A Tale of Two Yakuza
1968-10-25
Hishakaku and Kiratsune: A Tale of Two Yakuza
Overview: With his penultimate film, Uchida revisited one of his popular prewar titles, 1936’s Theatre of Life, an adaptation of Shiro Ozaki’s eponymous novel. Three-time Seijun Suzuki collaborator Goro Tanada wrote a gangsterized adaptation of Ozaki’s story for Uchida at a time when the yakuza had eclipsed the samurai genre as Toei's main cash crop. Protagonist Hishakaku murders a man in a quarrel over a barmaid and goes to jail. In his temporary absence, his girlfriend Otoyo, a former geisha, falls for Hishakaku’s brother, inciting a dangerous love triangle that, in typical yakuza fashion, ends tragically.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-10-25
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:
The Prickly Mouthed Geisha and the Girl of Osaka
1962-02-07
The Prickly Mouthed Geisha and the Girl of Osaka
Overview: A geisha helps a runaway who looks just like her.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-02-07
Popularity:
Ken San
2016-08-20
Ken San
Overview: KEN SAN pieces together the puzzle of the life and legacy of Japan's mythical acting icon, Ken Takakura. Collaborators, friends and family tell intimate stories of Ken's journey: how one man of quiet dignity became a cultural barrier-breaking film star.
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 2016-08-20
Popularity:
365 Nights
1962-09-09
365 Nights
Overview: A touching drama about a love triangle between a young architect, Koroku, and two women, Ranko and Teruko. Ranko comes from a wealthy family and is offering to repay Koroku’s family debts in exchange for marriage, but Koroku is in love with his landlord’s daughter, Teruko. Things are further complicated when the wicked Tsugawa takes interest in both women, for his own marriage.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-09-09
Popularity:
Feisty Edo Girl Nakanori-san
1961-10-22
Feisty Edo Girl Nakanori-san
Overview: Daughter of a lumber shop in Edo strives to protect her family business from the competitor.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-10-22
Popularity:
Man of the World 2
1960-07-13
Man of the World 2
Overview: An upstanding young man’s racy adventure filled with conspiracies and love.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1960-07-13
Popularity:
Tales of President Mito
1962-04-04
Tales of President Mito
Overview: Mr. Mito, a former president of an instant food company, with two young men’s help, solves the quality problems and wins a big ramen contract with a large Chinese company.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-04-04
Popularity:
No Advice Taken
1958-01-03
No Advice Taken
Overview: A comical love story between two college students — Hitomi, a strong-willed girl, and Shogo, a handsome, earnest and poverty stricken man.
Genres: Comedy Romance
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1958-01-03
Popularity:
Outlaw Under a Blue Canopy
1960-05-10
Outlaw Under a Blue Canopy
Overview: Sheriff Goro goes undercover to investigate drug smugglers.
Genres: Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1960-05-10
Popularity:
Patience Has An End
1971-06-25
Patience Has An End
Overview: Young coal miner Takeda leaves Kyushu in search of a better job in Tokyo, only to fall into the lucrative yet dangerous life of a yakuza.
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1971-06-25
Popularity:
The Bullet and the Horse
1966-04-23
The Bullet and the Horse
Overview: A number of recently released prisoners become involved in a racket with a rancher who is a rival to a neighboring landowner and wants to use the convicts to seize his ranch. The rancher does not know, however, that he had years before killed the parents of one of their number.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-04-23
Popularity:
House of Gamblers
1970-03-29
House of Gamblers
Overview: Ken Takakura stars as Ryoji one of the Aramasa family's loyal lieutenants whao takes the burden of his family being insulted by the Tanuma's family goons, by retaliating on his own. After injuring the head of Tanuma's family, and slaying others along the way, he then surrenders to the law and serves time. Before his last year to serve, the head of the Aramasa family falls ill and decides to retire, Ryoji miss chance to be successor, his old friend is reluctant but accepts. Now this gives the Tanuma family a chance for revenge! But with Tomisaburo Wakayama (Sekine) always having your back, how can you go wrong?
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-03-29
Popularity:
The Pledge
1972-07-30
The Pledge
Overview: When Omuro Yahachi of the Omuro family is selected as Mutsumikai Soke's successor, the conflict between the Kitakyushu and Wakamatsu begins.
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1972-07-30
Popularity:
The Prickly Mouthed Geisha, Part 4
1961-01-09
The Prickly Mouthed Geisha, Part 4
Overview: A comedy of a high-spirited geisha, Koharu, who is at risk of being trapped in a conspiracy to take over a lucrative diamond mine business.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-01-09
Popularity:
The Prickly Mouthed Geisha, Part 3
1960-08-07
The Prickly Mouthed Geisha, Part 3
Overview: Popular geisha Koharu suspects that Yusaku, a handsome stranger she falls in love with, is involved in a robbery of precious diamond.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1960-08-07
Popularity:
Black Rain: Making The Film
2006-10-10
Black Rain: Making The Film
Overview: A documentary on the making of the film, Black Rain, which actually encompasses 4 parts, Production, Filming, The Script and Cast, Post-Production
Genres: Documentary
Original Language: en
Release Date: 2006-10-10
Popularity:
Eleven Gangsters
1963-01-15
Eleven Gangsters
Overview:
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-01-15
Popularity:
The Second Bullet is Marked
1960-01-27
The Second Bullet is Marked
Overview: Tsunokichi and Ken face off against a rival yakuza in Kyushu.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1960-01-27
Popularity:
Brutal Tales of Chivalry 6
1969-11-07
Brutal Tales of Chivalry 6
Overview: This is the sixth film in the Brutal Tales of Chivalry series
Genres: Drama Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-11-07
Popularity:
Contemporary Tales of Chivalry: The Traitor Shall Die
1972-12-30
Contemporary Tales of Chivalry: The Traitor Shall Die
Overview: The ninth and final film in the Contemporary Tales of Chivalry series.
Genres: Crime Action Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1972-12-30
Popularity:
The Chivalrous Life
1967-05-30
The Chivalrous Life
Overview: Ryoma is a former military man who gets to know the leader of a yakuza group and begins to work with them, helping them defend themselves against other yakuza gangs.
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-05-30
Popularity:
New Prison Walls of Abashiri 2
1969-08-13
New Prison Walls of Abashiri 2
Overview: Suehiro Katsuji, a prisoner of Abashiri, is sent to Shikoku to work at a dock where a fierce turf battle takes place between a local gang and the dock operator.
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-08-13
Popularity:
Prison Walls of Abashiri 3
1965-10-31
Prison Walls of Abashiri 3
Overview: Upon returning to his hometown of Nagasaki, recently released prisoner Tachibana Shinichi must rejoin the Asahi gang family in order to pay back a past debt. Trouble brews when the rival gang that was responsible for sending him to prison learns of his return. Left with no alternative to their constant harassment and threats, Tachibana decides to take them on.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-10-31
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:
Samurai Geisha
1969-07-31
Samurai Geisha
Overview: Popular geisha Shinji (Fuji Junko) must defy a gang who plot to steal a lucrative coal business from struggling miners during the turbulent Meiji Era. With a stellar all-star cast, thrilling story and Takakura Ken's violent swordplay, makes this into a classic Yakuza movie!
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-07-31
Popularity:
Miyamoto Musashi: Birth of Two Sword Style
1963-08-14
Miyamoto Musashi: Birth of Two Sword Style
Overview: In the third installment of Yoshikawa's novel Musashi, things continue from the 2nd film at the end of battle, where Miyamoto continues on a mission of learning; with the introduction of his arch-rival Sasaki Kojiro; and lastly the large cast of characters rendezvouses for a fateful finale.
Genres: Action Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-08-14
Popularity:
Miyamoto Musashi: The Duel at Ichijo Temple
1964-01-01
Miyamoto Musashi: The Duel at Ichijo Temple
Overview: In the fourth installment, Musashi's potentially greatest opponent Kojiro jumps in and out of the story at the oddest and most coincidental moments. As his great love Otsu has succumbed to madness. Musashi then sets off to beat the functionaries of a treacherous clan in an arranged duel. 73 against one. Boastful Kojiro watches, secure in the knowledge that only he is a worthy opponent.
Genres: Action Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-01-01
Popularity:
A Story from Abashiri Prison—Duel in Snow Storm
1967-12-23
A Story from Abashiri Prison—Duel in Snow Storm
Overview: Convict son revenges innocent father's death.
Genres: Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-12-23
Popularity:
The Domain: Flower and Dragon
1969-05-31
The Domain: Flower and Dragon
Overview:
Genres: Action Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-05-31
Popularity:
New Prison Walls of Abashiri: Snowbound Deserter
1971-12-29
New Prison Walls of Abashiri: Snowbound Deserter
Overview:
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1971-12-29
Popularity:
Life of Hishakaku
1963-03-16
Life of Hishakaku
Overview: After eloping with a prostitute named Otoyo, Hishakaku takes refuge in the Kogane family’s turf. Indebted to Boss Kogane for his kindness, Hishakaku swears to dedicate himself to protect the Koganes in time of crisis. Hishakaku’s humble life comes to a sudden halt when the Kogane family becomes involved in a fatal feud with their rival, and Hishakaku’s services are called upon.
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-03-16
Popularity:
Song of Kagoshima
1962-05-01
Song of Kagoshima
Overview: Yumemi, the president of Shirayuri Tours, visits Kagoshima in an attempt to save the contract with Satsuma Inn. After learning about the abrupt cancellation of the contract with the family-run Satsuma Inn in Kagoshima, Yumemi, launches her own investigation into the matter. Amidst her efforts to resume her company’s contract with the inn, Yumemi finds herself personally involved in the inn’s family affairs and with their guests in a surprising discover of love and friendship.
Genres: Music Drama Romance
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-05-01
Popularity:
The Drifting Avenger
1968-06-14
The Drifting Avenger
Overview: Ken, son of a former samurai settles with his family in the west from Japan. Soon his family is killed in front of him by stagecoach robbers, making him aim to get revenge. Marvin an experienced gunman befriends Ken and becomes his mentor.
Genres: Drama Western
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-06-14
Popularity:
Yakuza of the Present
1973-10-27
Yakuza of the Present
Overview:
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1973-10-27
Popularity:
Beyond the Seasonal Wind
1958-06-10
Beyond the Seasonal Wind
Overview: Japanese drama film.
Genres: Romance
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1958-06-10
Popularity:
Memoir of Japanese Assassinations
1969-10-16
Memoir of Japanese Assassinations
Overview: This anthology film consists of nine incidents in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when assassins changed the course of Japanese history.
Genres: Drama History
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-10-16
Popularity:
Prison Walls of Abashiri, Part 2
1965-07-10
Prison Walls of Abashiri, Part 2
Overview: Two convicts just released from prison find a green bauble filled with diamonds — and try to prove they didn't steal it.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-07-10
Popularity:
Third Generation Boss
1974-08-10
Third Generation Boss
Overview: Based on Kazuo Taoka's autobiography, this film follows a Kobe gangster as he builds the small Yamaguchi-gumi into Japan's largest criminal clan.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1974-08-10
Popularity:
New Prison Walls of Abashiri: Stormy Cape
1971-08-13
New Prison Walls of Abashiri: Stormy Cape
Overview: Former inmate Katsuji gets involved in the horse gambling business while lending a helping hand to a ranch operator.
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1971-08-13
Popularity:
Brothers Serving Time
1969-05-03
Brothers Serving Time
Overview: While imprisoned, Tatsu encounters Danshi, a man who is a big honcho in the prison pecking order. After initial conflict they become sworn brothers. Tatsu and the sworn brothers he acquires weren’t really gangsters before their prison time, just ruffians. Prison, however, introduces them to plenty of gangland characters and three years later, they’re out of prison and enmeshed in the yakuza world.
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-05-03
Popularity:
Gambler's Legacy
1969-12-27
Gambler's Legacy
Overview: A yakuza member embarks on a trail of revenge for his murdered boss. Senzo, the successor of the Mita Family, searches for the man bearing a tattoo of a dragon who is said to be responsible for the death of their former leader.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-12-27
Popularity:
Bloodiest Flower
1971-04-03
Bloodiest Flower
Overview: A dramatic captivating tale tells of widowed Tei (Junko Fuji), she has become a coalmine operator and is determined to be successful despite mining being a predominately male domain. Overcoming the natural hardships, a more serious threat to Tei and her mine, the menacing presence of rival mining gangs who sense her vulnerability... Nihon jokyo-den:ketto midarw-bana is an outstanding drama, highlighted by wonderful characterizations/performances. Yamashita's excellent direction maintains a rich emotional flow from the opening seconds to the last. Intense and bloody encounters punctuate throughout the engaging multi layered tale!
Genres: Drama Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1971-04-03
Popularity:
Red Peony Gambler: Second Generation Ceremony
1969-04-10
Red Peony Gambler: Second Generation Ceremony
Overview: The industrual revolution comes to Japan with the introduction of the railroad system. This led to clashes between boatmen, who livihoods are threatened, and the railroad construction workers. Oryu the Red Peony returns to her home in Kumamoto to accept her position as second generation leader of the Yano Family. But the ceremony is interrupted by fighting between local boatmen and railroad works. And it seems a rival family is pulling the strings behind the clashes.
Genres: Action Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-04-10
Popularity:
Man of Thirteen Eyes
1958-01-15
Man of Thirteen Eyes
Overview: Japanese mystery film.
Genres: Mystery
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1958-01-15
Popularity:
Mother Peacock
1956-12-05
Mother Peacock
Overview: Japanese drama film.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1956-12-05
Popularity:
The Escape
1962-03-14
The Escape
Overview: Film about the 2-26 Incident.
Genres: Thriller
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-03-14
Popularity:
The Biggest Gamble
1969-09-14
The Biggest Gamble
Overview: When Honjo is selected as Kansai district's chairman, Iwasa of the rival gang asks Itsuki to do everything possible to have Honjo step down, which puts Itsuki between a rock and a hard place.
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-09-14
Popularity:
The Prickly-Mouthed Geisha Goes to Sado
1961-08-05
The Prickly-Mouthed Geisha Goes to Sado
Overview: Japanese comedy film.
Genres: Music Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-08-05
Popularity:
Man of the World
1960-01-21
Man of the World
Overview: An upstanding young man who is popular with the ladies takes on a corrupt group of men in his company.
Genres: Comedy
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1960-01-21
Popularity:
The Happy Family
1959-01-28
The Happy Family
Overview: Japanese family drama.
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1959-01-28
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:
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:
Great Jailbreak
1975-04-05
Great Jailbreak
Overview: A group of prisoners attempts to break the Abashiri prison. This film can be considered a sequel to the Abashiri Bangaichi series, written and directed by Ishii Teruo. The friendship between two men on death row, a fleeting love affair with a traveling dancer and a deadly battle with the real culprit who has hunted him down filmed over a long period of time on location in Hokkaido.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1975-04-05
Popularity:
The Japan Derby Race
1970-05-13
The Japan Derby Race
Overview: A story about a man who stakes his life on horse racing.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-05-13
Popularity:
The Big Boss
1963-04-12
The Big Boss
Overview: A shooting incident occurs at the Asahina family gambling hall in Tokyo's Joto district. It is the work of Gaijin boss Brown and his henchman Yamaoka, whose territory is in the Jonan district, in response to Kikuya, the head of the Asahina family, refusing to join the Syndicate. Yamaoka relentlessly pursues the Asahina family and uses his brother Komatsu to kill Shibaki, Kikuya's brother, who owns Nagoya territory. When Kikuya receives information that a general meeting of the Brown and Yamaoka Syndicate is to be held in Nagoya, he is determined to root out the syndicate and rushes to Nagoya, ready to die...
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-04-12
Popularity:
Lullaby for a Tough Guy
1972-04-01
Lullaby for a Tough Guy
Overview: A ruffian joins the ranks of the emperor’s guards.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1972-04-01
Popularity:
Men in a Rough Town
1959-01-28
Men in a Rough Town
Overview: An action-packed, dramatic gangster film.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1959-01-28
Popularity:
Storm Party
1964-10-21
Storm Party
Overview: Many outlaws are gathered at the front line of the Japanese Army in a shock troop.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1964-10-21
Popularity:
Employee Full of Fight
1957-03-13
Employee Full of Fight
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1957-03-13
Popularity:
New Prison Walls of Abashiri: The Vagrant Comes to a Port Town
1969-12-27
New Prison Walls of Abashiri: The Vagrant Comes to a Port Town
Overview: Katsuji takes revenge on evil Tamaru who forcefully took control of the fishery business run by Katsuji’s friend.
Genres: Drama Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1969-12-27
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:
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:
The Boss
1965-01-03
The Boss
Overview: Teruo Ishii portrays the bitter conflict over the right to develop land in a gripping and humorous way. Nakagami, the head of the Kanto Joseikai, is ordered to acquire the rights to work to level the reclaimed land and prevent the Doshikai from expanding from Kansai into Tokyo, but the interference of the Koda-gumi, associated with the Kansai Doshikai, intensifies. Nakagami's younger brother Hayami, unhappy that the situation is moving slowly, tries to blackmail the mayor into moving forward, but... A true Toei gangster film with an all-star cast including Koji Tsuruta and Ken Takakura!
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-01-03
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Abashiri Prison: Duel in the South
1966-08-13
Abashiri Prison: Duel in the South
Overview: This is the sixth film in the "Abashiri Series," based on an original idea by Hajime Ito, and written and directed by Teruo Ishii of "Operation Big Bad" fame. The film was shot by Kiichi Inada, who also worked with Ito.
Genres: Action Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-08-13
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Abashiri Prison: Duel in the Snow Country
1966-12-31
Abashiri Prison: Duel in the Snow Country
Overview: Based on Ito Hajime's original story, this is the seventh installment in the "Bangaichi" series, adapted jointly by Kamba Fumio and Matsuda Hiroo, and directed by Ishii Teruo of "Kamba 101: Killing Bouncer" fame. The film was shot by Kiichi Inada, who also directed "Abashiri Bangaichi: Confrontation in the South" in the same series.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-12-31
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New Prison Walls of Abashiri: High Stakes at Abashiri
1970-08-14
New Prison Walls of Abashiri: High Stakes at Abashiri
Overview: Prisoner Katsuji must fend for himself and his prison mates in the fierce battle involving a family feud.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-08-14
Popularity:
New Prison Walls of Abashiri: Stray Wolf in Snow
1970-12-30
New Prison Walls of Abashiri: Stray Wolf in Snow
Overview:
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-12-30
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
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Abashiri Prison: Challenge to the Evil
1967-08-12
Abashiri Prison: Challenge to the Evil
Overview:
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-08-12
Popularity:
Lady Sen and Hideyori
1962-03-25
Lady Sen and Hideyori
Overview: From the late 1500's through the founding of the Tokugawa Shogunate many battles were fought as the great warlords vied for power over the nation. Princess Sen, a daughter of Tokugawa Ieyasu, is caught amidst the family feud between the Tokugawa and Toyotomi families. When her father Lord Tokugawa Ieyasu attacks her husband Toyotomi Hideyori's castle, her life takes a sudden turn for the worse. Will she ever find peace in her life again? One of Hibari Misora's most memorable performances, a movie you will never forget!
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-03-25
Popularity:
The Domain: Rising Dragon
1970-12-03
The Domain: Rising Dragon
Overview: The Domain: Rising Dragon
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-12-03
Popularity:
The Domain: The Naniwa Story
1965-01-30
The Domain: The Naniwa Story
Overview: Second film of Makino's Nihon Kyokakuden series set in Osaka's harbor. The series also known as "The Domain" Each a stand alone film in it's own, none are connected other than starring the famous Ken Takakura as the main Character. This story begins with Ken Takakura's character coming to Osaka after his brother's death. Another exciting yakuza story with superb yakuza action!!
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1965-01-30
Popularity:
Showdown of Men
1966-07-01
Showdown of Men
Overview: Part one.
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-07-01
Popularity:
Dagger
1971-04-28
Dagger
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1971-04-28
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The Domain: White Blade
1967-01-28
The Domain: White Blade
Overview: The Domain: White Blade
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-01-28
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The Domain: Severed Relations
1968-02-22
The Domain: Severed Relations
Overview: The Domain: Severed Relations
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-02-22
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The Domain: Where The Blade Enters
1967-09-15
The Domain: Where The Blade Enters
Overview: The Domain: Where The Blade Enters
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1967-09-15
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The Domain: Duel at Thunder Gate
1966-09-17
The Domain: Duel at Thunder Gate
Overview: The life of entertainers in Asakusa’s pleasure quarters. An exciting yakuza story with superb action.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-09-17
Popularity:
The Domain: Kanda Festival Showdown
1966-02-03
The Domain: Kanda Festival Showdown
Overview: The Domain: Kanda Festival Showdown
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1966-02-03
Popularity:
Path of Japanese Chivalry: Story of All-Out Attack
1975-01-15
Path of Japanese Chivalry: Story of All-Out Attack
Overview: Toei studios last ninkyo eiga of the 70's.
Genres: Crime Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1975-01-15
Popularity:
See You
1988-05-18
See You
Overview: Even while having tremendous technology, now have a funeral shop walk picking up the car was retired in the desert Honma (Ken Takakura) is invited from the team DANKAI which declined to Paris-Dakar Rally, the team because of the publicity to supporting popular star had to join. Eventually Among the various speculation of various people, rally began ....
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1988-05-18
Popularity:
A Hoodlum At The Risk Of His Life
1970-05-01
A Hoodlum At The Risk Of His Life
Overview: A reporter is framed for murder while investigating organized crime. Upon being released from prison the plan for his revenge unravels.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-05-01
Popularity:
The Great Road
1960-03-08
The Great Road
Overview: The story of a certain engineer from his youth until he retired from the Japanese National Railways after the war .
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1960-03-08
Popularity:
Hell's Juggler
1961-01-15
Hell's Juggler
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1961-01-15
Popularity:
Duel of the Underworld
1963-07-13
Duel of the Underworld
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1963-07-13
Popularity:
Hell's Kitchen
1962-10-12
Hell's Kitchen
Overview:
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1962-10-12
Popularity:
Histories of the Chivalrous
1968-08-01
Histories of the Chivalrous
Overview: A Kansai gang is up to conquer the whole country under the mask of a patriotic group. However after an assassination their henchmen will struggle to avenge the death of their master.
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-08-01
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The Chop Professor
1956-04-04
The Chop Professor
Overview: Junpei Kihara, a young president of the University's wrestling club, is nicknamed "Mr. Chop". One day, on the way back from visiting the hospital after being thrown by Nobuyoshi Shinohara during practice and injured, he met Asako, the sister of Arisawa's mother, Katsuko. When they entering a coffee shop run by Asako's best friend Hisako, Hisako misunderstood them as lovers...
Genres: Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1956-04-04
Popularity:
Yukyo-retsuden
1970-07-04
Yukyo-retsuden
Overview:
Genres: No genres available
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1970-07-04
Popularity:
Gambler Biography
1968-12-28
Gambler Biography
Overview: Historical Yakuza gangster film set the early years of the Showa era.
Genres: Crime
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1968-12-28
Popularity:
The detective whose path was crossed by a snake
1995-07-01
The detective whose path was crossed by a snake
Overview: Starring Ken Takakura, this TV special depicts a detective (Akira Hayasaka) who lives in a harsh life with pride and conviction. Minoru Akiba, Chief of the Investigation Division 1 of the Metropolitan Police Department, is a veteran detective who has passed through the shrine in numerous incidents. His wife was killed by a criminal he caught 13 years ago as revenge. There is a report that his former subordinate, Constable Murasawa, was stabbed to death under Akiba... Suzuki Kyoka plays his daughter.
Genres: Crime Drama
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1995-07-01
Popularity:
Meteor Karate Strike
1956-01-29
Meteor Karate Strike
Overview: Sequel to the movie Denko karate uchi.
Genres: Drama Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1956-01-29
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A Man's Dark Finger
1959-02-10
A Man's Dark Finger
Overview: A touching action film about a young yakuza who becomes infected with evil because he has the ability to easily decipher the mechanism of a safe. After being released from prison, he hopes to be rehabilitated thanks to the love of his family and risks his life to fight the evil that stands in his way.
Genres: Crime Drama Action
Original Language: ja
Release Date: 1959-02-10
Popularity: