In the aftermath of World War II, Japan emerged as one of the most respected countries in the world of film. The postwar era witnessed an unprecedented rise in popularity for Japanese cinema, giving rise to films that not only mirrored the changing societal landscape but also transcended cultural boundaries in their storytelling and artistic expression. This golden age of Japanese cinema has produced works that resonate with audiences around the globe, tackling a range of themes from the struggles of human existence to the complexities of moral dilemmas, all while showcasing exceptional filmmaking techniques. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best films from postwar Japan.
10. The Naked Island – Kaneto Shindō (1960)
“The Naked Island”, directed by Kaneto Shindō, portrays the story of a small family’s relentless struggle for survival on an isolated and desolate island. Set in the serene yet challenging landscape of postwar Japan, the film centers on the lives of a couple and their two young sons, who are the island’s only residents. They engage in a ceaseless battle against the elements to cultivate the unyielding soil, a formidable task made worse by the severe scarcity of fresh water. Their daily life, marked by a series of relentless efforts to make a living, is a testament to their resilience in the face of adversity.
Under Kaneto Shindō’s direction, the film contrasts the untouched beauty of the island with the family’s persistent struggle against the harshness of their environment. Notably devoid of dialogue, “The Naked Island” makes a bold, creative statement, relying entirely on its powerful visual narrative to tell its story. The cinematography captures the raw essence of the natural landscape, while the ambient sounds of the environment serve to deepen the viewer’s immersion into the family’s reality. Celebrated for its unflinching depiction of human endurance and the deep familial bonds that sustain them through their trials, “The Naked Island” stands as a tribute to the human spirit’s capacity to persevere.
9. Yearning – Mikio Naruse (1964)
“Yearning”, directed by Mikio Naruse, is a captivating story of love combined with loss, set against the rapidly evolving landscape of postwar Japan. The film follows the journey of Reiko, a widow who manages a small shop, as she confronts the overwhelming emotional challenges that emerge in the wake of her husband’s untimely death during the war. Complicating her grief is the evolving relationship with her late husband’s younger brother, who has long concealed his deep-seated affection for her. Their relationship, fraught with unspoken emotions and societal judgments, becomes increasingly complex, creating a story that explores the nature of love, loyalty, and personal dilemmas in a society on the brink of modernization.
Under Mikio Naruse’s direction, “Yearning” is characterized by a subtle yet powerful exploration of the spectrum of human emotions. The film’s narrative, enhanced by Naruse’s sensitive storytelling, captures the depth of Reiko’s internal conflicts as she struggles to reconcile her emotions with the realities of her changing environment. The cinematography, combined with the actors performances, adds further depth to the story, showcasing the unvoiced emotions and complex inner struggles faced by the characters. Renowned for its empathetic portrayal of a woman’s inner life, “Yearning” stands as one of the best films from postwar Japan.
8. Tokyo Story – Yasujirō Ozu (1953)
In “Tokyo Story”, directed by Yasujirō Ozu, an elderly couple embarks on a journey to Tokyo with hopes of reconnecting with their adult children, only to confront the reality of being somewhat overlooked and neglected. The film thoughtfully shows the couple’s experiences and interactions with their offspring, who, caught up in the whirlwind of their own lives, find it challenging to carve out time for their aging parents. Amidst the frenetic pace of city life, it is their compassionate widowed daughter-in-law who stands out as the sole figure of genuine care and attentiveness. This narrative gracefully unravels the often unspoken complexities of family dynamics set during the time of a rapidly urbanizing Japan.
Yasujirō Ozu’s storytelling in “Tokyo Story” is a meditation on the generational divide, articulating the subtle yet profound emotional undercurrents that flow within a family. His distinctive directorial approach, marked by carefully composed static camera positions and a deliberately measured pace, invites the audience to immerse themselves in the emotional journeys of the characters. The film’s thoughtful exploration of the challenges faced by the elderly parents, contrasted with the lives of their adult children, provides an insightful look into the complexities of familial bonds and obligations. “Tokyo Story” is a powerful examination of evolving family values and interpersonal connections in a modernizing Japanese society.
7. The Face of Another – Hiroshi Teshigahara (1966)
“The Face of Another”, directed by Hiroshi Teshigahara, centers on the life of a man who is disfigured in a devastating industrial accident and forced to undergo transformative plastic surgery to receive a new face. This procedure becomes a gateway for him to reassess and explore his identity and moral compass within a society that places an overwhelming emphasis on physical appearance. The film raises probing questions about personal identity, the sense of alienation, and the complex nature of human interaction as the protagonist embarks on a new phase of life. His journey, both physical and psychological, invites an introspective exploration into the many layers of human consciousness and self-perception.
Under Hiroshi Teshigahara’s direction, “The Face of Another” stands out due to its surreal and avant-garde style. The use of innovative cinematography and striking visual effects creates a haunting atmosphere, capturing and externalizing the protagonist’s intense internal conflict and altered perception of the world around him. Celebrated for its philosophical themes and its groundbreaking narrative approach, “The Face of Another” ensures its place as one of the best films from postwar Japan. It presents a bold examination of the human condition, challenging viewers to reflect on the relationship between appearance, identity, and societal judgments.
6. Ugetsu – Kenji Mizoguchi (1953)
“Ugetsu”, directed by Kenji Mizoguchi, is a captivating film set in 16th-century Japan, a time ravaged by civil war. The narrative follows the lives of two couples who find themselves torn apart due to the overwhelming forces of ambition and the brutal realities of war. One of the central characters, a potter, harbors grand dreams of wealth and honor, ambitions that drive him beyond the simple life he knows. Meanwhile, his brother, caught in the grip of his own aspirations, is drawn to the prestigious and dangerous life of a samurai. As they embark on their separate journeys, the film explores themes of human desire with elements of the supernatural, leading them through haunting encounters with spirits and the impacts of war on their personal lives.
Kenji Mizoguchi’s direction in “Ugetsu” is celebrated for its ethereal and atmospheric storytelling, blending reality with ghostly and otherworldly elements. The film’s complex narrative structure and visually stunning style create an entrancing cinematic experience, capturing both the chaotic turmoil of the era and the intimate, personal tragedies that unfold amidst the chaos. Mizoguchi’s innovative use of extended takes and smooth, flowing camera movements contributes significantly to the film’s dreamlike quality, immersing the viewer in a world where the boundaries between the real and the supernatural blur.
5. Woman in the Dunes – Hiroshi Teshigahara (1964)
“Woman in the Dunes”, directed by Hiroshi Teshigahara and adapted from the novel by Kōbō Abe, presents a story about an entomologist who, while deeply engrossed in a research expedition, unexpectedly finds himself trapped in a sand pit with a mysterious woman. Residing in a crudely fashioned house at the bottom of the pit, their reality morphs into a relentless battle against the encroaching sands, forcing them to shovel away the sand every night to preserve their existence. The film explores themes of existentialism and the nature of freedom, all explored through the lens of their peculiar circumstances and the gradual evolution of their relationship.
Under Teshigahara’s direction, “Woman in the Dunes” stands out due to its groundbreaking use of visual imagery and sound design, which evokes a palpable sense of isolation and inescapable confinement. The film uses high-contrast cinematography and a minimalist setting to amplify the oppressive, intense atmosphere that pervades the narrative. This cinematic masterpiece offers a profound meditation on the instincts of survival and the human quest for meaning within seemingly absurd and desperate situations. Celebrated for its philosophical depth, “Woman in the Dunes” solidifies its place as one of the best films from postwar Japan.
4. Sansho the Bailiff – Kenji Mizoguchi (1954)
“Sansho the Bailiff”, directed by Kenji Mizoguchi, takes place in the historical setting of 11th-century feudal Japan, a time rife with political strife and turmoil. The narrative follows the harrowing journey of a noble family, tragically torn apart by the tides of political upheaval. The children, Zushio and Anju, along with their mother, find themselves cruelly separated and thrust into the bleak reality of slavery. As the years pass, Zushio, now under the oppressive tutelage of the bailiff Sansho, finds himself clinging to the distant memories of his father’s noble teachings about mercy and justice.
Kenji Mizoguchi’s film is an extraordinary exploration of the depths of human suffering and the enduring strength of the human spirit. His directorial expertise is evident in the film’s long takes and the eloquent portrayal of the natural landscapes, elements that significantly enhance the emotional power of the story. “Sansho the Bailiff” is celebrated for its poetic storytelling, bringing together themes of grave injustice, heartfelt compassion, and the relentless pursuit of redemption. This film stands out for its remarkable ability to combine a deeply moving narrative with a strong historical context.
3. Harakiri – Masaki Kobayashi (1962)
“Harakiri”, directed by Masaki Kobayashi, is set in the 17th-century Japan, a period characterized by an enforced peace that has rendered many samurai without purpose and in a state of poverty. The plot focuses on the life of an aging and destitute samurai, Hanshiro Tsugumo, who presents himself at the estate of a feudal lord with a seemingly straightforward request to perform ritual suicide on the lord’s grounds. However, beneath this request lies a deeper, more complex motive connected to the tragic fate of his son-in-law. As the story unfolds, it reveals the sequence of events that have led Hanshiro to this decisive moment, offering an incisive commentary on the rigid samurai code and the societal structures of the time.
Masaki Kobayashi’s direction in “Harakiri” is characterized by an intense and thoughtful examination of the samurai ethos. The film employs a non-linear narrative structure, utilizing flashbacks to gradually unravel the multi-layered story. This narrative approach creates a critical dissection of concepts such as honor and the inherent hypocrisy within the established social order. The film’s striking use of black-and-white cinematography further enhances its dramatic and visual impact, contributing significantly to the overall thematic depth of the film. “Harakiri” stands not just as a visually arresting piece of cinema but also as a contemplative critique of the moral values of its era, making it one of the best films from postwar Japan.
2. The Human Condition I: No Greater Love – Masaki Kobayashi (1959)
“The Human Condition I: No Greater Love”, another entry directed by Masaki Kobayashi, takes place in Japan during World War II. It chronicles the life of Kaji, a pacifist who secures a position as a labor supervisor in a POW camp located in Manchuria. Despite his intentions, Kaji is confronted with the brutal realities of the camp and finds himself embroiled in a relentless struggle to enact reforms aimed at improving the dire conditions faced by the prisoners. Throughout this endeavor, he encounters a series of complex moral dilemmas, forcing him to confront the harsh truths of war and its impact on human morality and compassion. The film captures Kaji’s journey to uphold his humanity and ethical principles amidst the cruelty and inhumanity of the war environment.
Masaki Kobayashi’s film is a powerful exploration of the nature of ethical conflicts and the resilience of the human spirit. Kobayashi’s unflinching and uncompromising approach in depicting the grotesque horrors of war, alongside the protagonist’s intense internal struggles, makes for a narrative that is both emotionally gripping and deeply thought-provoking. The film’s stark realism, enhanced by deeply moving performances, particular Tatsuya Nakadai as Kaji, creates an experience that draws the viewer into the very heart of the protagonist’s struggle. “The Human Condition I: No Greater Love” stands as a profound cinematic journery that questions the essence of humanity and moral integrity in the midst of war.
1. Seven Samurai – Akira Kurosawa (1954)
“Seven Samurai”, directed by Akira Kurosawa, is a groundbreaking film set in the time of 16th-century Japan. The narrative tells the story of a small village faced with the relentless threat of marauding bandits, that makes the bold decision to enlist the protection of seven samurai. Each samurai, distinct in their skills and backgrounds, comes together to train the villagers and strategize for the impending, high-stakes battle. Throughout this process, the film explores the evolving relationships between the samurai and the villagers, highlighting themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the stark social divide that exists between the seasoned warriors and the troubled peasants.
Akira Kurosawa’s epic “Seven Samurai” is celebrated for its dynamic and compelling storytelling, strong character development, and the various innovations it brought to the art of filmmaking. Kurosawa’s pioneering use of camera techniques and cutting-edge editing not only broke new ground at the time of the film’s release but also set a precedent that would go on to influence the future of global filmmaking. “Seven Samurai” is an in-depth exploration of the human condition, taking a look at the complexities of social structures and relationships. This cinematic masterpiece has earned its place in the history of world cinema due to its monumental influence on the action genre and its enduring relevance to this day, making it one of the best films from postwar Japan.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best films from postwar Japan:
- The Naked Island – Kaneto Shindō (1960)
- Yearning – Mikio Naruse (1964)
- Tokyo Story – Yasujirō Ozu (1953)
- The Face of Another – Hiroshi Teshigahara (1966)
- Ugetsu – Kenji Mizoguchi (1953)
- Woman in the Dunes – Hiroshi Teshigahara (1964)
- Sansho the Bailiff – Kenji Mizoguchi (1954)
- Harakiri – Masaki Koabayashi (1962)
- The Human Condition I: No Greater Love – Masaki Kobayashi (1959)
- Seven Samurai – Akira Kurosawa (1954)
