The Criterion Collection, renowned for its impressive selection of classic and contemporary films, holds an exceptional array of Japanese cinema. This selection celebrates the unique diversity and artistic brilliance of Japanese filmmakers, ranging from the introspective family dramas of Yasujirō Ozu to the epic samurai tales of Akira Kurosawa. Each film in this collection not only represents a pinnacle of cinematic achievement but also offers a window into the complexities of Japanese culture, history, and society. These entries on this list are not just mere entertainment, but artistic landmarks that have shaped the landscape of world cinema. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best Japanese films in The Criterion Collection.
10. Still Walking – Hirokazu Kore-eda (2008)
“Still Walking,” directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda, is a contemplative family drama that unfolds with a quiet intensity. Set over the course of a single summer day, the film focuses on the Yokoyama family, who have gathered to commemorate the tragic and untimely death of the eldest son, who drowned fifteen years earlier. As the day progresses, Kore-eda masterfully uncovers the layers of hidden resentments, long-held regrets, and the deep-seated familial love that binds them together. The narrative, full of emotional depth, is a reflection on the passage of time, the endurance of memory, and the subtle complexities that define family relationships.
Kore-eda’s direction is marked by a gentle, observant style that captures the beauty in everyday moments and the unspoken emotions that linger in the air. Praised for its naturalistic performances and script, the film portrays the details of family life with an extraordinary sensitivity and realism that resonates deeply. “Still Walking” emerges as a quiet yet deeply affecting film, one that stands out for its honest portrayal of the bonds of family ties and the inevitable, often bittersweet changes brought by the passage of time. As a significant work in Kore-eda’s filmography, it stands as one of the finest examples of contemporary Japanese cinema.
9. Ikiru – Akira Kurosawa (1952)
“Ikiru,” directed by the legendary Akira Kurosawa, is a profound and deeply moving drama that takes a look at the existential search for meaning in life. The narrative centers around Kanji Watanabe, a diligent yet unremarkable bureaucratic city office worker who faces a life-altering diagnosis of terminal cancer. Confronted with the stark reality of his mortality, Watanabe finds himself propelled on a journey of self-discovery and redemption, driven by a newfound desire to find genuine significance in his remaining days. “Ikiru,” which translates to “To Live,” thoughtfully explores profound themes such as existential despair, the often overlooked beauty of life, and the human yearning to leave behind a lasting legacy.
Masterfully directed by Kurosawa, the film is universally renowned for its deep emotional resonance and insightful exploration of the human condition. In a performance that is both heart-wrenching and deeply humane, Takashi Shimura embodies Watanabe with a remarkable depth, masterfully portraying the transformation of a man transitioning from a state of quiet despair to one of meaningful, purposeful action. Known for its evocative narrative, visually stunning cinematography, and ability to provoke profound introspection among its viewers, “Ikiru” stands tall as one of the best Japanese films in The Criterion Collection. It remains a powerful testament to cinema’s ability to explore and affirm the profound value and beauty of life, leaving a lasting mark on the hearts and minds of its audience.
8. Late Spring – Yasujirō Ozu (1949)
“Late Spring,” directed by the esteemed Yasujirō Ozu, is a deeply moving exploration of the societal shifts in post-war Japanese society. Set in a period marked by change, the film centers on the life of Noriko, a devoted young woman living with her widowed father, Shukichi. Their serene existence is disrupted as societal pressures mount for Noriko to marry, propelling the film into an exploration of the emotional complexities and dynamics of their relationship. The narrative highlights the challenges of embracing change and the painful inevitability of familial separation, offering a lens into the tension between traditional values and the emerging modern lifestyle in post-war Japan.
Utilizing his distinctive cinematic style marked by tranquil static camera angles and a measured, contemplative pace, Ozu fills the film with a profound emotional depth. “Late Spring” is celebrated for its masterfully understated performances, particularly the captivating portrayal of Noriko by Setsuko Hara, alongside its subtle yet powerful exploration of human emotions. The film excels in its portrayal of the nuances and intricacies of everyday life, demonstrating Ozu’s extraordinary ability to transform ordinary moments into reflections on the nature of life and relationships. “Late Spring” stands as a timeless masterpiece in Japanese cinema, revered for its enduring themes and exquisite cinematic artistry.
7. High and Low – Akira Kurosawa (1963)
“High and Low,” another entry directed by the legendary Akira Kurosawa, is a crime thriller adapted from Ed McBain’s novel “King’s Ransom.” Set in the contrasting social spheres of Tokyo, the film tells the story of Kingo Gondo, a successful shoe company executive, who is plunged into a moral predicament when his chauffeur’s son is mistakenly kidnapped, believed to be his own son. Faced with a harrowing choice between personal financial ruin and saving a child’s life, Gondo grapples with the decision of whether to pay a substantial ransom or invest in a crucial business takeover. The film dissects themes of class disparities, morality, and the complexities of the human psyche, making it a captivating and thought-provoking experience.
Kurosawa’s direction skillfully combines elements of a police procedural with a powerful human drama, maintaining suspense while delving deep into the societal and moral implications of the characters’ actions. “High and Low” is celebrated for its layered storytelling, character arcs, and its critique of the stark social inequalities that underpin modern society. The film’s dynamic use of cinematic space, moving from the airy heights of Gondo’s hilltop home to the sweltering depths of Tokyo’s urban sprawl, visually accentuates the thematic dichotomy of wealth and poverty. “High and Low” stands as one of Kurosawa’s most masterful works, widely acclaimed for its narrative depth, ensuring its place as one of the best Japanese films in The Criterion Collection.
6. Sansho the Bailiff – Kenji Mizoguchi (1954)
“Sansho the Bailiff,” directed by Kenji Mizoguchi, is a deeply moving historical drama set in feudal Japan. The story revolves around a brother and sister, Zushio and Anju, who are sold into slavery after their father, a nobleman and governor, is exiled due to his benevolent rule. Their lives take a harsh turn as they are separated from their mother and endure relentless hardship. Separated from their mother, the siblings endure hardship and cruelty under the rule of the merciless bailiff Sansho, who epitomizes the era’s ruthless feudal system. The film is a tale of suffering, injustice, and the enduring human spirit, with its narrative eloquently depicting the struggle against oppressive forces.
Mizoguchi’s film is a masterful blend of poetic storytelling and social commentary. His focus on themes like freedom and human dignity in the setting of historical Japan adds further layers of meaning to the story. The use of long takes and fluid camera movement creates a sense of elegance and emotional depth, making the viewer deeply empathetic to the characters’ plight. “Sansho the Bailiff” is celebrated for its compelling narrative, exquisite cinematography, and powerful themes of empathy and resilience. The portrayal of the children’s resilience in the face of adversity and their eventual quest for justic adds to the film’s emotional impact. It remains a high point in Mizoguchi’s career and a masterpiece of Japanese cinema, lauded for its humanity and its artistic brilliance.
5. Woman in the Dunes – Hiroshi Teshigahara (1964)
“Woman in the Dunes,” directed by Hiroshi Teshigahara and based on the novel by Kobo Abe, was released in 1964. The film is a surreal and existential drama about an entomologist who, while on an expedition, becomes trapped in a sand pit with a mysterious woman. Their initial struggle to escape evolves into an allegory on the human condition and the meaning of existence. Their struggle for survival in this confined space leads to a complex psychological battle, as they navigate the shifting realities of their situation. “Woman in the Dunes” is known for its striking visuals and metaphorical depth, exploring themes of existentialism, freedom, and human desire, while also exploring the psychological interplay between the characters.
Teshigahara’s direction is characterized by its innovative use of the landscape, transforming the ever-shifting dunes into a character of their own. His use of wide-angle shots and extreme close-ups enhances the sense of entrapment and disorientation experienced by the characters. The film’s mesmerizing cinematography and haunting score contribute to its dreamlike and claustrophobic atmosphere, immersing the viewer in the characters’ surreal experience. “Woman in the Dunes” is praised for its deep philosophical undertones and stands as a masterpiece of Japanese new wave cinema. The film’s exploration of themes such as obsession, isolation, and the struggle for meaning in life makes it a timeless and thought-provoking classic. It remains one of the best Japanese films in Criterion Collection for its unique storytelling and powerful thematic exploration.
4. The Human Condition I: No Greater Love – Masaki Kobayashi (1959)
“The Human Condition I: No Greater Love,” directed by Masaki Kobayashi, is the first part of an epic trilogy exploring the impact of World War II on a Japanese pacifist. The film follows Kaji, a labor camp supervisor who attempts to apply his humanitarian beliefs to the harsh realities of war and oppression. Kaji’s ideals are put to the test as he is confronted with the brutalities inflicted upon Chinese prisoners and the indoctrination of his own soldiers. As he navigates the complexities of his role, he confronts moral dilemmas and the cruelty of the war machine, often finding himself at odds with the prevailing attitudes and policies.
Kobayashi’s masterful storytelling and stark realism paint a vivid picture of the human cost of war. The director’s use of long takes and meticulous composition enhances the film’s emotional impact and the stark reality of its setting. Tatsuya Nakadai delivers a powerful performance, embodying Kaji’s internal conflict and his fight against dehumanization. His portrayal captures the anguish and moral quandary of a man caught between his ideals and the grim necessities of war. “The Human Condition I: No Greater Love” is celebrated for its historical accuracy, emotional depth, and its critique of militarism and totalitarianism. This film sets the stage for the rest of the trilogy, establishing itself as a monumental work in Japanese cinema.
3. Ran – Akira Kurosawa (1985)
“Ran,” directed by Akira Kurosawa, is a cinematic adaptation of Shakespeare’s “King Lear,” set in medieval Japan. The film tells the story of Hidetora Ichimonji, an aging warlord who decides to divide his kingdom among his three sons, leading to treachery, madness, and ultimately, tragedy. As Hidetora’s world crumbles, the film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the corrupting power of ambition. Kurosawa’s epic is a powerful exploration of chaos, human folly, and the cyclical nature of violence. The narrative unfolds in a stark, brutal world, reflecting the Shakespearean themes through a distinctly Japanese lens. “Ran” is known for its breathtaking cinematography, bold color palette, and grand battle scenes, each frame painting a vivid picture of the tumultuous era.
At the time of its release, “Ran” was one of the most expensive Japanese films ever made. Kurosawa’s use of color and composition, combined with an unforgettable score, creates a Shakespearean drama that is both majestic and deeply human. The film’s beautiful costumes and set designs add to its visual splendor, immersing the audience in a bygone era of samurai warfare and court intrigue. The film is a testament to Kurosawa’s directorial prowess, showcasing his ability to blend Western literature with Eastern storytelling. His adept handling of the complex plot and numerous characters makes “Ran” one of the best Japanese films in The Criterion Collection.
2. Seven Samurai – Akira Kurosawa (1954)
“Seven Samurai,” directed by Akira Kurosawa, is a landmark film in the samurai genre and a cinematic masterpiece. The story is set in 16th-century Japan and follows a village of farmers who hire seven ronin (masterless samurai) to protect them from marauding bandits. The film chronicles the samurai’s efforts to defend the village, leading to an epic and climactic battle. The narrative takes a deep look at the relationships between the samurai and the villagers, highlighting themes of social class and mutual respect. “Seven Samurai” is a timeless and universal tale of courage, sacrifice, and the complexities of heroism.
Kurosawa’s epic is celebrated for its dynamic character development, innovative cinematography, and gripping action sequences. Each character is given depth and backstory, contributing to the overall appeal of the film. The film’s influence on cinema is profound, inspiring countless adaptations and the popularization of the team-based action narrative. Its blend of intense drama and moments of humor creates a well-rounded and enduring story. Toshiro Mifune’s performance as the wild and unpredictable samurai, Kikuchiyo, is iconic. “Seven Samurai” is not just a cornerstone of Japanese cinema but a global cinematic treasure, revered for its storytelling, technical prowess, and its exploration of the human spirit.
1. Harakiri – Masaki Kobayashi (1962)
“Harakiri,” directed by Masaki Kobayashi, is a powerful critique of the samurai code and feudal system. The film is set in 17th-century Japan and follows Hanshiro Tsugumo, a ronin (masterless samurai), who requests to commit ritual suicide at the house of a feudal lord. The story mosty unfolds through flashbacks, revealing the tragic events that led him to this point and his true intentions. The narrative carefully examines the concepts of honor and loyalty, questioning the traditional values upheld by the samurai class. “Harakiri” is renowned for its intense drama, moral complexity, and its condemnation of the samurai system’s hypocrisy.
Kobayashi’s film is a masterful blend of storytelling and social commentary, using the samurai genre to explore deeper themes of honor, poverty, and systemic injustice. Through its critical lens, the film exposes the often romanticized samurai ethos as deeply flawed and inherently unjust. Tatsuya Nakadai’s performance as Tsugumo is both powerful and compelling, capturing the dignity and desperation of his character. His portrayal adds a profound emotional layer to the film, enhancing its impact on the viewer. “Harakiri” is considered a masterpiece of Japanese cinema, offering a critical view of Japan’s feudal past. The film’s enduring impact lies in its ability to transcend its historical setting, offering a timeless commentary on human dignity and the corrupting nature of power, ensuring its place as one of the best Japanese films in The Criterion Collection.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best Japanese films in The Criterion Collection:
- Still Walking – Hirokazu Kore-eda (2008)
- Ikiru – Akira Kurosawa (1952)
- Late Spring – Yasujirō Ozu (1949)
- High and Low – Akira Kurosawa (1963)
- Sansho the Bailiff – Kenji Mizoguchi (1954)
- Woman in the Dunes – Hiroshi Teshigahara (1964)
- The Human Condition I: No Greater Love – Masaki Kobayashi (1959)
- Ran – Akira Kurosawa (1985)
- Seven Samurai – Akira Kurosawa (1954)
- Harakiri – Masaki Kobayashi (1962)
