Japanese cinema in the 1970s was marked by an incredible diversity of styles and themes, from gritty yakuza epics to ethereal avant-garde visions. While cinema across the globe was experiencing innovations during this time, Japan too saw its filmmakers daringly experimenting, challenging traditional norms both in storytelling and cinematography. Directors of this era presented a unique perspective on a society facing rapid changes, while pushing the boundaries of narrative expression. This decade stands out not only for its artistic ingenuity but also for its profound reflection of Japan’s cultural and societal shifts. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best Japanese films of the 70s.
10. Battles Without Honor and Humanity – Kinji Fukasaku (1973)
“Battles Without Honor and Humanity,” directed by Kinji Fukasaku, is a gritty yakuza film that revolutionized the Japanese gangster genre. Set in the chaotic post-war Hiroshima, it follows the life of Shozo Hirono, a demobilized soldier who becomes embroiled in the violent and unstable world of the yakuza. As he rises through the ranks, Hirono navigates the treacherous alliances and betrayals that define the yakuza underworld, revealing the cost of power and loyalty in this dangerous milieu. The film is known for its raw portrayal of the brutality and amorality of gang life, shedding light on the darker aspects of Japanese society.
Fukasaku’s direction breaks away from the traditional, glamorized depiction of yakuza in Japanese cinema, offering instead a harsh, realistic perspective. The narrative explores the complexities of honor and survival in the criminal underworld, presenting a stark contrast to the idealized versions of yakuza life. The film’s documentary-style cinematography and rapid editing contribute to its intense and chaotic atmosphere, immersing the audience in the gritty reality of its characters’ lives. Its legacy continues to resonate in contemporary cinema, noted for its impact on the portrayal of organized crime and its innovative approach to storytelling.
9. Female Prisoner #701: Scorpion – Shunya Ito (1972)
“Female Prisoner #701: Scorpion,” directed by Shunya Ito, is a powerful exploitation film blending elements of drama and action. The story centers on Nami Matsushima, nicknamed “Scorpion,” who is imprisoned after being betrayed by her lover and a corrupt police officer. Inside the prison, she faces brutal treatment from the guards and fellow inmates, yet she remains unbroken, embodying a spirit of rebellion and resilience. The film portrays her struggle for survival and quest for vengeance against those who wronged her, exploring the depths of human endurance and the desire for justice.
Ito’s film is noted for its strong feminist undertones and stylish visual storytelling, with Meiko Kaji’s portrayal of Scorpion becoming iconic, symbolizing both strength and defiance in the face of injustice. “Female Prisoner #701: Scorpion” stands out for its mix of brutality and poetic justice, making it a cult classic in the genre. Its influence extends beyond its immediate genre, inspiring filmmakers and artists with its unique blend of grit and artistry. The film has been praised for its critique of the treatment of women in society and the penal system, as well as for its artistic and powerful narrative, ensuring its place as one of the best Japanese films of the 70s.
8. The Man Who Stole the Sun – Kazuhiko Hasegawa (1979)
“The Man Who Stole the Sun,” directed by Kazuhiko Hasegawa, is a unique thriller that blends elements of crime and political commentary. The film follows a high school science teacher who, disillusioned with society, constructs an atomic bomb. His actions lead to a tense standoff with authorities, as he demands seemingly trivial changes in society, while holding the threat of nuclear catastrophe over their heads. The film takes a look themes of individualism, societal apathy, and the potential for an ordinary person to wield extraordinary power, making a bold statement on the power of the individual against societal structures.
Hasegawa’s film is acclaimed for its daring narrative and its satirical critique of contemporary Japan. The movie’s blend of dark humor, suspense, and social commentary makes it a thought-provoking experience. The protagonist’s complex character adds depth to the film, challenging viewers’ perceptions of morality and extremism. “The Man Who Stole the Sun” is considered ahead of its time, addressing issues of nuclear power and terrorism in a way that remains relevant to this day. Its impact is heightened by the stark contrast between the protagonist’s mundane life and his extreme actions. It continues to be celebrated for its innovative storytelling and the pertinent questions it raises about individual agency and responsibility.
7. Lone Wolf and Cub: Baby Cart at the River Styx – Kenji Misumi (1972)
“Lone Wolf and Cub: Baby Cart at the River Styx,” directed by Kenji Misumi, is the second film in the popular “Lone Wolf and Cub” series. It follows the story of Ogami Itto, a disgraced samurai, and his young son Daigoro as they navigate a path of vengeance against the clan that betrayed them. In this installment, Ogami is hired to assassinate a dangerous female ninja leader while being pursued by the vengeful Yagyu clan. The film is renowned for its stylish action sequences and the deep bond between father and son amidst their perilous journey. The narrative brings together themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the fine line between justice and revenge.
Kenji Misumi’s direction elevates the film with its artistic choreography of sword fights and the portrayal of the harsh samurai code. The series is celebrated for its blend of brutal action and emotional depth, particularly in the relationship between Ogami and Daigoro. Each battle Ogami faces not only highlights his skills as a warrior but also deepens the understanding of his character and his relentless pursuit of justice. “Lone Wolf and Cub: Baby Cart at the River Styx” is a highlight of the chanbara genre, respected for its influence on samurai cinema and its compelling narrative of revenge and honor. The film’s impact extends beyond its genre, influencing both Eastern and Western filmmakers with its unique style and storytelling, ensuring its place as one of the best Japanese films of the 70s.
6. House – Nobuhiko Obayashi (1977)
“House,” directed by Nobuhiko Obayashi, is a surreal horror-comedy that has garnered a cult following for its bizarre and imaginative visuals. The film revolves around a group of schoolgirls who visit a rural house, only to encounter supernatural events linked to the home’s eerie history. Each girl faces bizarre and terrifying fates, reflecting their individual personalities. “House” is an explosion of wild creativity, blending horror tropes with absurdist humor and innovative special effects, with its eccentric narrative structure and the vividly psychedelic color palette contributing to its unique charm.
Obayashi’s film is an avant-garde masterpiece, breaking conventional storytelling with its dreamlike sequences and psychedelic imagery. The distinctive style, blending animation and live-action, creates a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience. The use of disjointed editing and surreal visual effects not only enhances the horror elements but also adds a layer of dark comedy. “House” is often hailed for its originality and its impact on the Japanese horror genre, offering a playful yet nightmarish vision that defies traditional narrative structures. This mix of horror and whimsy makes ‘House’ a unique entry in the genre, appealing to audiences with its blend of the grotesque and the absurd.
5. Lady Snowblood – Toshiya Fujita (1973)
“Lady Snowblood,” directed by Toshiya Fujita, is a pivotal Japanese revenge film. It tells the story of Yuki Kashima, also known as Lady Snowblood, born in prison and raised to avenge her family, destroyed by a group of criminals. The narrative portrays her quest for vengeance with flashbacks of her tragic past, detailing the crimes committed against her mother. The film’s mix of stylized violence, dramatic storytelling, and haunting cinematography make it a standout in the genre. Its visual style, characterized by striking imagery and symbolic use of color, enhances the film’s thematic depth.
Fujita’s film is notable for its strong female protagonist, a departure from traditional roles in Japanese cinema at the time. Meiko Kaji’s portrayal of Yuki is both fierce and compelling, capturing the essence of a woman driven by vengeance. Her performance adds a layer of emotional depth to the character’s relentless pursuit of justice. “Lady Snowblood” influenced many films in the revenge genre, including Quentin Tarantino’s “Kill Bill” series. The film is celebrated for its artistic direction, compelling narrative, and its significant impact on both Japanese and international cinema. Its legacy continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike with its powerful blend of story and style, making it one of the best Japanese films of the 70s.
4. This Transient Life – Akio Jissoji (1970)
“This Transient Life,” directed by Akio Jissoji, is a thought-provoking drama that explores the complexities of human desires and moralities. Set during the time of a significant shift in Japanese culture, the film follows the story of a wealthy young man and his sister who reject societal norms and engage in a controversial relationship. Their actions and philosophical discussions challenge traditional values, leading to a series of events that question the nature of desire, morality, and the meaning of life. The film’s exploration of the existential angst of its characters make it a deeply immersive experience.
Jissoji’s direction creates a meditative and introspective film, blending visual beauty with existential themes. “This Transient Life” is known for its bold narrative and the way it addresses taboo subjects with a nuanced and artistic approach. The cinematography and use of symbolism add layers to the storytelling, enhancing the film’s introspective quality. The film won the Grand Prize at the Locarno International Film Festival, establishing Akio Jissoji as an influential voice in Japanese cinema. Its impact on the genre of art-house cinema is significant, and it continues to be admired for its philosophical depth and visual artistry.
3. Pastoral: To Die in the Country – Shūji Terayama (1974)
“Pastoral: To Die in the Country,” directed by Shūji Terayama, is an avant-garde film that blurs the line between reality and fantasy, following a young boy living in a rural village who dreams of escaping to the city. His surreal journey is filled with symbolic imagery and characters that represent various aspects of his life and psyche. As the boy confronts the peculiar inhabitants of his village, each encounter reveals deeper layers of his consciousness and the complexities of his transition to adulthood. The film is a poetic and visually striking exploration of youth, memory, and the desire for freedom.
Terayama’s unique visual language and non-linear storytelling make “Pastoral: To Die in the Country” a mesmerizing experience. Through its blend of the absurd and the real, the film offers a captivating exploration of the boundary between dreams and reality. The dreamlike sequences and allegorical elements reflect the director’s background in experimental theatre, with the use of vibrant colors and surreal set designs enhancing the film’s ethereal quality. It’s celebrated for its imaginative approach and its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and introspection. Renowned for its creativity and its distinctive exploration of personal and collective memories, it remains one of the best Japanese films of the 70s.
2. Demons – Toshio Matsumoto (1971)
“Demons,” directed by Toshio Matsumoto, is a psychological drama with elements of horror. The film is set in medieval Japan and revolves around two peasants who, driven by greed, betray a samurai and become haunted by guilt and fear, leading to their eventual downfall. Their journey is marked by hallucinations and paranoia, blurring the line between reality and illusion. As the story progresses, the audience is drawn into a nightmarish world where the boundaries between the supernatural and the psychological are increasingly obscured. “Demons” is a powerful study of human nature, exploring themes of guilt, betrayal, and the psychological consequences of one’s actions.
Matsumoto’s film stands out for its haunting atmosphere and experimental narrative structure. The director skillfully crafts a sense of dread and foreboding that permeates every scene, utilizing a blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and avant-garde techniques. The use of surreal imagery and sound design enhances the film’s unsettling tone. “Demons” is praised for its psychological depth and its innovative approach to storytelling. The film is a compelling and disturbing exploration of the darker aspects of the human psyche, making it a unique and influential piece in Japanese cinema.
1. Dersu Uzala – Akira Kurosawa (1975)
“Dersu Uzala,” directed by Akira Kurosawa, is a Soviet-Japanese co-production that tells the story of a Russian explorer and his friendship with a native hunter, Dersu Uzala, in the Siberian wilderness. The film is based on the memoirs of Vladimir Arsenyev, exploring themes of friendship, survival, and the clash between urban life and the wilderness. The story follows their expeditions and the deep bond they form, highlighting Dersu’s wisdom and the impact of civilization on the natural world. Kurosawa’s use of natural landscapes not only serves as a stunning setting but also as a character in its own right, emphasizing the film’s environmental message.
Kurosawa’s direction brings a poetic quality to the film, capturing the beauty and harshness of the Siberian landscape. His skill in crafting compelling narratives is evident in the way he contrasts the simplicity of Dersu’s life with the complexities of modern existence. The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, showcasing Kurosawa’s mastery in storytelling and his ability to convey universal themes. The relationship between the main characters is portrayed with a subtlety and depth that resonates with viewers long after the film ends. “Dersu Uzala” is celebrated for its cinematography, compelling characters, and its exploration of environmental and cultural themes, ensuring its place as one of the best Japanese films of the 70s.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best Japanese films of the 70s:
- Battles Without Honor and Humanity – Kinji Fukasaku (1973)
- Female Prisoner #701: Scorpion – Shunya Ito (1972)
- The Man Who Stole the Sun – Kazuhiko Hasegawa (1979)
- Lone Wolf and Cub: Baby Cart at the River Styx – Kenji Misumi (1972)
- House – Nobuhiko Obayashi (1977)
- Lady Snowblood – Toshiya Fujita (1973)
- This Transient Life – Akio Jissoji (1970)
- Pastoral: To Die in the Country – Shūji Terayama (1974)
- Demons – Toshio Matsumoto (1971)
- Dersu Uzala – Akira Kurosawa (1975)
