Sion Sono, a significant figure in Japanese cinema, is recognized for his daring and often controversial approach to filmmaking. His ability to touch upon themes that challenge cultural taboos and reflect societal dichotomies, all while maintaining a distinctive cinematic style, has earned him both international acclaim and critical recognition. He seamlessly weaves contemporary issues with timeless themes, resulting in stories that resonate deeply with viewers from various backgrounds and cultures. From tales of love and obsession to commentary on the modern human condition, Sono’s films invite viewers to embark on unparalleled cinematic journeys. His fearless approach to filmmaking often shatters traditional conventions, evoking a range of emotions from surprise to introspection. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best Sion Sono films of all time.
10. Love & Peace (2015)
In the heartwarming and whimsical “Love & Peace,” we follow Ryoichi, a timid office worker with dreams of becoming a rock star. His daily life is monotonous, punctuated only by fleeting moments of ambition. Unfortunately, his aspirations are constantly overshadowed by his lack of self-confidence. Everything changes when he adopts a tiny turtle named Pikadon, which soon undergoes a magical transformation, granting Ryoichi’s wildest wishes. This newfound magic not only uplifts Ryoichi’s spirit but also poses challenges he never expected. But as Ryoichi’s dreams come true, he realizes that with great power comes even greater responsibility.
Sion Sono crafts a delightful and eccentric tale that melds fantasy, comedy, and drama into a unique cinematic experience. The vibrant city of Tokyo serves as the perfect setting for this whimsical journey, contrasting Ryoichi’s internal struggles with the world around him. Combining themes of dreams, love, and the cost of fame, Sono offers a fresh perspective on the age-old message about staying true to oneself. “Love & Peace” is a heartwarming reminder of the magic that can happen when you believe in yourself and the ones you love. The film stands as a testament to Sono’s versatility as a filmmaker, showcasing his ability to tackle a wide range of genres with ease and originality.
9. Strange Circus (2005)
“Strange Circus” propels audiences into a dark and unsettling world. School principal Ozawa Gozo abuses his stepdaughter, Mitsuko, while her mother remains silent, complicit in the abuse. The story then blurs the lines between reality and fiction, unfolding both as a macabre family drama and as the content of a provocative novel written by a wheelchair-bound author named Taeko. “Strange Circus” confronts themes of trauma, identity, and perversion through an unsettling narrative set in an uncanny reality. A blend of psychological horror and drama, this film is not for the faint of heart, but offers an unflinching exploration of human darkness.
Sion Sono navigates this haunting narrative with deft precision, masterfully alternating between the boundaries of reality and fiction. With “Strange Circus,” he delves deep into the psyche, exploring themes of trauma, perversion, and the thin boundary between victim and perpetrator. The direction style, undeniably daring, presents a horrifying yet compelling mixture of intense emotions and graphic imagery, ensuring that this is one of the best Sion Sono films of all time. This dark depiction of reality showcases Sono’s ability to narrate the harsh truths of human existence in an extremely distinctive manner.
8. The Whispering Star (2015)
Set in a distant future, “The Whispering Star” introduces us to a post-apocalyptic universe where humans are an endangered species, with the majority living on distant planets. The film centers on Yoko, an android who delivers packages to humans scattered across the galaxy. Each delivery becomes a journey of its own, revealing glimpses of the lives and emotions of those she encounters. These packages often contain memories or emotions, making Yoko’s job a significant one. As she travels, the vast loneliness of space allows her to reflect upon human nature and memories, with each planet offering unique insights into the human experience.
Sono presents a contemplative science fiction film that’s both meditative and visually arresting. While the vastness of space serves as the setting, it’s the intimate moments and interactions that truly resonate emotionally. “The Whispering Star” is a departure from his usual intense dramas, showcasing his ability to tap into a more introspective and philosophical realm. The film’s slower pace and thoughtful narrative invite viewers to ponder the ideas of existence, memory, and the human condition. In a genre saturated with action-packed spectacles, Sono’s minimalist approach provides a refreshing and introspective exploration of humanity’s future.
7. Cold Fish (2010)
“Cold Fish” introduces us to Shamoto, a timid fish store owner, who gets ensnared in the twisted world of fellow store owner Murata. Murata, while appearing charismatic and helpful, hides a much darker side. The complex dynamic between Shamoto and Murata forms the backbone of the narrative, revealing how easily one can be manipulated by another’s sinister intentions. Shamoto becomes embroiled in Murata’s heinous crimes, culminating in a disturbing journey into the abyss of human depravity, highlighting the unsettling gray areas of morality.
Drawing from real-life events, Sono constructs a chilling and intense psychological thriller in “Cold Fish.” The narrative plunges deep into the darkest corners of the human soul, examining the extent of evil one can commit when driven by greed and ambition. As the plot unravels, the line between victim and perpetrator becomes increasingly blurred, adding layers of tension and complexity. It’s a film that grips its viewers with its unflinching portrayal of its characters’ descent into madness, making it one of the best Sion Sono films ever. His genius lies in his ability to draw horror from reality, leaving audiences both terrified and introspective, forcing them to confront their own boundaries and ethical stances.
6. Guilty of Romance (2011)
In the compelling “Guilty of Romance,” we witness the life of Izumi, a devoted wife who feels trapped in her mundane life. While society often paints a picture of marital bliss, Izumi’s reality starkly contrasts this idealized notion. Desiring more than her loveless marriage offers, she embarks on a journey into Tokyo’s red-light district. There, she becomes involved in the world of adult films and prostitution, leading to an encounter with a police detective investigating a series of gruesome murders. As her double life intensifies, the lines between her former self and her newfound persona begin to blur, leaving Izumi in a perilous position.
Sono blends themes of love, lust, and betrayal in this gripping narrative, offering a critical examination of freedom and its costs. His portrayal of Izumi is neither judgmental nor sympathetic, allowing viewers to form their own interpretations of her choices. The neon-lit streets of Tokyo provide the perfect setting for Izumi’s descent into a world filled with darkness and intrigue. “Guilty of Romance” is a masterclass in storytelling, expertly juxtaposing the vibrancy of Tokyo’s nightlife with the shadowy underbelly that lies beneath.
5. Noriko’s Dinner Table (2005)
“Noriko’s Dinner Table” follows a story that revolves around a teenager, Noriko Shimabara, who escapes her familial home in Toyokawa to join her favorite blogger in Tokyo. While the allure of a digital connection draws her in, the tangible connections she makes are even more complicated. Once there, she finds herself immersed in a pseudo-family that rents out actors to lonely clients looking to simulate a perfect family life. The narrative then takes a riveting turn as Noriko’s real family sets out on a desperate search to find her. Through their quest, they too find themselves entangled in this strange world of fabricated realities.
Sono offers a narrative that questions the true essence of familial bonds and relationships. The film serves as a prequel and companion piece to his earlier “Suicide Club,” and it dives deep into the conflicts of personal identity and the idea of manufactured happiness. The use of online culture and its potential influence on the youth provides a relevant and striking commentary. Through Noriko’s eyes, viewers witness the blurred lines between digital and real-world interactions, making this one of the best Sion Sono films ever. “Noriko’s Dinner Table” stands as a compelling examination of the lengths to which one may go to fill emotional voids.
4. Himizu (2011)
Set during post-tsunami Japan, “Himizu” centers on two teenagers, Sumida and Keiko, who struggle with abusive and neglectful parents. While the tragedy of the natural disaster looms large, it’s the personal traumas that deeply impact these young souls. As they grapple with their traumatic home lives, they find solace in each other’s company. However, as Sumida’s mental state deteriorates under the weight of his circumstances, the narrative grows increasingly intense. Their shared dream of a better life becomes a beacon of hope amidst the surrounding darkness, as they navigate the tumultuous waters of adolescence and societal challenges.
Sono, drawing inspiration from Minoru Furuya’s manga, paints a harrowing picture of disillusioned youth seeking redemption in a broken world. The relationship between Sumida and Keiko offers a shimmering ray of light, illuminating the power of human connection. The devastating backdrop of the natural disaster serves as a metaphor for the internal turmoil faced by the young protagonists. The film’s raw and unfiltered portrayal of its characters’ struggles is both disturbing and touching. It’s a testament to Sono’s ability to showcase resilience and hope in the face of overwhelming despair, capturing the essence of perseverance in challenging times.
3. Why Don’t You Play in Hell? (2013)
“Why Don’t You Play in Hell?” is an energetic, chaotic ride into the world of filmmaking. A young, ambitious film crew named gets caught in the crossfire between two warring yakuza clans. Drawn by the allure of raw, unscripted moments, they decide to capture the real-life yakuza battle on camera. What ensues is a violent, comedic, and cinematic showdown that blurs the lines between reality and staged performance.
Sono’s playful yet bloody ode to the love of cinema offers an over-the-top exploration of passion and dedication to one’s craft. Throughout the film, viewers witness the lengths creatives will go to for the perfect shot. It’s a wild blend of humor, action, and emotion, cementing Sono’s reputation as a filmmaker who’s not afraid to take risks. Amidst the chaos, the dedication of the film crew serves as a testament to the spirit of indie filmmaking. The sheer unpredictability of the narrative keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The film showcases Sono’s flair for blending different genres seamlessly, resulting in a uniquely thrilling cinematic experience.
2. Red Post on Escher Street (2020)
“Red Post on Escher Street” offers a behind-the-scenes look at the world of indie filmmaking. The narrative revolves around a passionate film director, Tadashi Kobayashi, as he holds auditions for his new film. Amidst the auditions, a myriad of hopeful actors bring their own dreams and desires to the stage, and unbeknownst to him, the lives of his cast and crew intertwine in unexpected and often surreal ways, culminating in a chaotic movie set. As filming progresses, the boundaries between fiction and reality blur, leading to unexpected outcomes and revealing the heart and soul poured into every frame.
In this film, Sono once again showcases his love for cinema, albeit through a more introspective lens. He offers a glimpse into the hopes and aspirations of unsung talents and visionaries in the world of cinema. The movie explores the dreams, struggles, and realities faced by those in the film industry. It’s a beautiful homage to the spirit of independent filmmaking and the passion that drives it, with the narrative highlighting not just the highs, but also the lows and challenges that come with pursuing one’s artistic vision. Through the chaos and unpredictability of the film set, Sono illustrates the magic that can emerge when a dedicated group comes together to create art, making this one of the best Sion Sono films of all time.
1. Love Exposure (2008)
Clocking in at over four hours, “Love Exposure” is an epic tale of love, family, religion, and obsession. The story follows Yu Tsunoda, a young man raised in a devout Christian family, who becomes an expert in upskirt photography in a quest to sin and gain his father’s attention. His life takes a turn when he falls in love with a manipulative woman named Yoko, and meets a mysterious lady, Koike, who recruits him into a religious cult. As the story unfolds, the lines between devotion and obsession begin to blur, reflecting the complexities of human relationships and desires.
Sono’s magnum opus is a cinematic roller coaster filled with unexpected twists and turns. “Love Exposure” effortlessly blends various film genres – from drama, romance, and action to the absurd. The depth of its characters allows for a deep exploration into the human psyche, navigating themes of redemption and self-discovery. Despite its lengthy runtime, the film never loses momentum, keeping viewers engaged right until the very end with its multifaceted characters and layered narrative. With this film, Sono challenges conventional storytelling and proves why he’s considered one of the most innovative Japanese filmmakers of his generation.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best Sion Sono films of all time:
- Love & Peace (2015)
- Strange Circus (2005)
- The Whispering Star (2015)
- Cold Fish (2010)
- Guilty of Romance (2011)
- Noriko’s Dinner Table (2005)
- Himizu (2011)
- Why Don’t You Play in Hell? (2013)
- Red Post on Escher Street (2020)
- Love Exposure (2008)
