Hirokazu Kore-eda, a distinctive voice in Japanese cinema, has garnered acclaim for his gentle narratives that explore human relationships and the dynamics of family life. His films, which often explore the challenges and complexities of modern society, highlight the subtleties of everyday interactions and the unspoken bonds that tie people together. Kore-eda’s authentic storytelling captures moments that are both ordinary and extraordinary, making them relatable to viewers from diverse backgrounds. His unique narrative style, combined with a deep sensitivity towards his characters, has earned him fans from all around the world. His ability to craft intimate stories that resonate universally sets him apart as a master filmmaker. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best Hirokazu Kore-eda films of all time.
10. Broker (2022)
“Broker” portrays the often-hidden intricacies of baby adoption in South Korea. Taking place in a bustling urban setting, the film is centered around a black market adoption agency, diving deep into the lives of the complex individuals involved. It showcases various parties, each with their own histories and hopes, as they navigate the emotionally charged process of adoption. These interactions expose the audience to a spectrum of feelings, from hope and excitement to anxiety and doubt. Throughout the story, the viewers are not just introduced but deeply connected to an ensemble of characters, as they witness their motivations, dreams, and the personal and societal challenges they face.
Hirokazu Kore-eda, who has built a reputation for his nuanced portrayal of family dynamics, explores this sensitive subject with unmatched empathy and grace. His distinctive storytelling method offers a deep dive into the issues at the heart of the adoption system, all the while managing to capture the very soul and essence of each character. As a result, they spring to life on the screen, becoming intensely relatable and genuine figures that resonate with audiences. “Broker” is more than just a film; it’s a reflection of Kore-eda’s unparalleled capacity to bring multifaceted, often overlooked themes into the limelight, presenting them as compelling cinematic experiences. Through his lens, he manages to touch upon the raw, often unspoken human emotions that arise when personal desires intersect with societal challenges.
9. After the Storm (2016)
In “After the Storm,” viewers are introduced to Ryota, a once-celebrated author turned private detective who struggles to make ends meet. Battling gambling addiction, he desperately tries to reconnect with his estranged son while coping with his own failures. His interactions with the world around him often seem tinted with a shade of melancholy. As a typhoon night confines him to his mother’s place alongside his ex-wife and son, it offers a chance for reflection, confrontation, and tentative reconciliation. The storm outside mirrors the emotional turmoil within, pushing Ryota to confront his past choices.
Kore-eda’s film is a profound exploration of lost ambitions, family ties, and the possibility of redemption. Through Ryota’s journey, the director paints a vivid picture of personal growth and familial bonds tested by time and circumstance. With a subtle touch, Kore-eda weaves in the dynamics of parent-child relationships and the weight of unmet expectations. The film resonates deeply, highlighting Kore-eda’s remarkable ability to present human stories with both vulnerability and strength. It beautifully encapsulates life’s fleeting moments, regrets, and hopes, reminding us of the continuous ebb and flow of relationships and self-awareness, making it one of the best Hirokazu Kore-eda films of all time.
8. Monster (2023)
“Monster,” a 2023 film by Hirokazu Kore-eda, takes place in a tranquil suburban town, disrupted by a mysterious and unsettling event. The story centers around a single mother, whose life is thrown into chaos when her son Minato starts exhibiting strange behavior. The concern escalates when a seemingly minor scuffle at school spirals into a significant incident, drawing attention from society and the media. Amidst a brewing storm, the shocking disappearance of the school children, including Minato, sends shockwaves through the community, leaving Minato’s mother to gradually uncover the truth of what has happened.
The narrative experectly portrays the perspectives of the distressed mother, a dedicated school teacher, and the children themselves, slowly revealing the complex truth behind the events. As the mother confronts the school, demanding answers, layers of hidden realities and societal dynamics come to light. “Monster” deeply explores the psyche of its characters, exploring themes of parental love, societal pressure, and the elusive nature of truth. Kore-eda masterfully balances suspense with emotional depth, creating a film that not only grips the audience but also provokes deep reflection on the intricacies of human relationships and moral ambiguity.
7. Our Little Sister (2015)
“Our Little Sister” revolves around three adult sisters, Sachi, Yoshino, and Chika, who reside in the nostalgic house of their grandparents in the scenic town of Kamakura. The past resurfaces upon their estranged father’s death, and during the funeral, they meet their shy younger teenage half-sister, Suzu, for the first time. Deciding to take her in, despite the complexities it might introduce, the film explores their developing bond, the shared joys, sorrows, and the intricate dynamics of their combined family life, as they navigate through the highs and lows of this newfound relationship.
Kore-eda, with his characteristic sensitivity, crafts a tale of love, acceptance, and the beauty of sisterhood, drawing viewers into a world where simple gestures often speak louder than words. The film is a gentle reflection on relationships, loss, and the ties that bind family together. By focusing on the mundane moments and everyday interactions, Kore-eda elevates “Our Little Sister” into a heartwarming portrayal of familial bonds, showcasing the beauty that lies in the quiet moments of life. His approach is subtle, yet powerful, making this film an emotional journey worth embarking on, and easily one of the best Hirokazu Kore-eda films of all time.
6. Maborosi (1995)
“Maborosi” is a contemplative narrative focusing on Yumiko, a woman grappling with her young husband’s inexplicable suicide. Years pass, and while life’s tides change, moving forward, she remarries and relocates to a coastal village. Yet, amidst the sound of waves and the tranquility of the seaside, the haunting memory of her husband and the unanswered questions regarding his death linger, casting a shadow over her newfound life. The film gracefully navigates Yumiko’s journey of acceptance, grief, and the quest for understanding, shedding light on the ways people cope with loss.
Marking one of Kore-eda’s earliest works, “Maborosi” already showcased the filmmaker’s signature style of quiet introspection and emotional depth. The coastal setting, with its expansive horizons, acts as a metaphor for Yumiko’s vast sea of emotions. The movie’s serene cinematography complements the introspective narrative, allowing viewers to deeply connect with Yumiko’s emotions. Kore-eda masterfully examines the complexities of human feeling and the often unspoken grief that shadows one’s life, exploring themes of memory, acceptance, and the resilience of the human spirit.
5. After Life (1998)
In “After Life,” the story unfolds within a unique space set between life and the afterlife. This special place serves as a sort of waiting room where the deceased can select one memory to recreate and take with them to eternity, leaving all others behind. Staff members assist the souls in choosing and then filming these memories. Throughout this process, viewers witness the vast range of emotions exhibited by the souls, from profound sadness to heartwarming joy. As the week progresses, both the staff and the souls reveal touching stories, resonating with themes of regret, happiness, and nostalgia.
Kore-eda crafts this imaginative realm with a delicate balance of fantasy and reality. The film poses thought-provoking questions about what it means to truly live and how memories shape our identities, with each decision made by the souls becoming a reflection on the transient nature of life and the enduring power of memory. The concept, unique and moving, highlights the universality of human experiences, ensuring that this is one of the best ever Hirokazu Kore-eda films. “After Life” underscores the notion that while life is fleeting, memories remain forever imprinted in our hearts.
4. Like Father, Like Son (2013)
“Like Father, Like Son” explores the lives of two families who discover that their six-year-old sons were switched at birth. The affluent Nonomiya family, led by workaholic architect Ryota, and the laid-back Saiki family from a different socioeconomic background, grapple with the revelation. Faced with the agonizing decision of whether to swap their children back or not, the families confront deep emotional and moral challenges. The weight of societal judgment, as well as personal values, play a significant role in their choices. The narrative centers on themes of nature versus nurture and the true meaning of parenthood.
Kore-eda’s directorial style allows the viewer to ponder the complexities of familial bonds and love. With a gentle lens, he captures the raw emotions, internal conflicts, and the transformative power of understanding and compassion. “Like Father, Like Son” reflects on the essence of family, going beyond blood ties. The story pushes characters, and viewers alike, to reconsider what it means to truly be a parent. It’s a moving exploration of parental love and the sacrifices it often demands. The heart of the film lies in its exploration of how love can transcend the confines of biological ties.
3. Shoplifters (2018)
“Shoplifters” introduces us to a ragtag family of misfits making ends meet through petty theft in Tokyo. While not related by blood, they form a bond stronger than many traditional families, proving that relationships can transcend biological connections. After finding a young girl named Yuri, seemingly neglected in the cold, they decide to take her in, seeing it as a chance to provide her with the warmth and care she’s been denied. As the story unfolds, secrets emerge, deepening the plot and challenging the integrity and dynamics of this unconventional family unit.
Earning the Palme d’Or at Cannes, Kore-eda’s film is a profound commentary on family, love, and survival. The narrative challenges traditional definitions of family, suggesting that the ties we choose can be as strong, if not stronger, than those we’re born into. By presenting characters that live on the fringes of society, each with their unique struggles and stories, Kore-eda evokes deep empathy and contemplation about the nature of human connections. “Shoplifters” stands as an evocative piece on the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit, ensuring its place as one of the best Hirokazu Kore-eda films of all time.
2. Nobody Knows (2004)
Based on real events, “Nobody Knows” chronicles the life of four siblings living in a Tokyo apartment. Abandoned by their mother, the eldest brother, Akira, takes on the role of caretaker, shielding their existence from the outside world to avoid being separated. With limited resources and no adult supervision, the siblings face challenges daily, ranging from basic sustenance to emotional support. Amidst their struggles, moments of laughter and camaraderie shine through, offering a glimmer of hope in their dire circumstances. The narrative focuses on the children’s resilience, innocence, and the heart-wrenching reality of their situation.
Kore-eda, known for capturing the essence of human relationships, offers a raw and unfiltered look into the struggles and joys of childhood. While the setting may be urban and the circumstances bleak, the film captures universal themes of love, survival, and the bond between siblings. The authenticity of the performances, particularly by the young cast, amplifies the emotional weight of the story. The film not only highlights societal issues but also celebrates the unwavering spirit of children, making sure that “Nobody Knows” remains a masterclass in storytelling, evoking both admiration and empathy.
1. Still Walking (2008)
“Still Walking” focuses on a family reunion commemorating the death of the eldest son, Junpei. The Yokoyama family, composed of an elderly doctor and his wife, along with their surviving adult children, gather at their ancestral home. As they come together, the presence of the deceased son looms large, casting a shadow over the reunion. Conversations, meals, and shared memories fill their day, but underlying tensions, past resentments, and unspoken emotions surface intermittently. The house itself becomes a silent witness to their joys and sorrows, echoing with the memories of generations past. Through these interactions, Kore-eda unravels the complexities of family dynamics, generational differences, and personal regrets.
With this film, Kore-eda continues his exploration of family and the wide arrary of emotions embedded within its structure. Each character is carefully developed, allowing audiences to see both their flaws and their redeeming qualities. The subtleties of their interactions reveal a profound understanding of human nature and the often fragile bonds that tie families together. By focusing on a single day’s events, he magnifies the importance of everyday moments and interactions in shaping our relationships. “Still Walking” is a profound reflection on life, death, and the legacy we leave behind, cementing Kore-eda’s reputation as a maestro of family dramas.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best Hirokazu Kore-eda films of all time:
- Broker (2022)
- After the Storm (2016)
- Monster (2023)
- Our Little Sister (2015)
- Maborosi (1995)
- After Life (1998)
- Like Father, Like Son (2013)
- Shoplifters (2018)
- Nobody Knows (2004)
- Still Walking (2008)
