Takeshi Kitano, a titan in Japanese cinema, is celebrated for his masterful fusion of comedy and violence while dealing with themes of crime, redemption, and the human condition. His cinematic vision illuminates the complexities of life with a blend of harsh realism and tender sentimentality. With a career spanning several decades, Kitano’s films are a masterclass in storytelling, capturing the essence of human relationships, struggles, and the various shades of life. From gripping gangster dramas to heartwarming tales of friendship and love, Kitano’s versatility is evident in every frame. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best Takeshi Kitano films of all time.
10. Achilles and the Tortoise (2008)
“Achilles and the Tortoise” tells the story of Machisu, a man obsessed with art and his constant quest for artistic perfection. From his tumultuous childhood, where he loses his parents, to his challenging adulthood, Machisu’s life revolves around his insatiable drive to create. His encounters with various art forms and artists shape his evolving perspective, and he remains unyielding in his desire to produce work that speaks to his soul. However, his relentless passion often leads to personal losses and financial hardships, constantly challenging his commitment to his craft.
Kitano’s unique perspective on the world of art and the sacrifices artists make is evident in this film, creating a character in Machisu who is at once relatable in his passion and tragic in his obsession. The narrative threads the line between dark humor and somber reflection, offering an insightful look into the creative process. The film’s contemplative pace allows viewers to immerse themselves in Machisu’s journey, feeling both his triumphs and heartaches, ensuring that “Achilles and the Tortoise” remains a memorable exploration of the art world’s challenging terrains.
9. Boiling Point (1990)
In “Boiling Point,” Masaki, a reserved young man, becomes embroiled in the dangerous world of the yakuza. Initially a passive player in a local baseball team, a series of events including the assault of his coach thrusts Masaki into a violent, unpredictable underworld. Drawn deeper into this chaotic environment, Masaki confronts situations that test his character and resolve. As he gets more involved, the lines between his once simple life and the murky world of organized crime blur. Masaki’s transformation from a shy individual to someone entangled in the yakuza’s machinations forms the crux of the story.
Takeshi Kitano, both as director and actor, captures the volatile essence of the yakuza world. With his characteristic blend of stoic performances and sudden outbursts of violence, the film challenges viewers’ perceptions of morality and retaliation. His nuanced understanding of the criminal world shines through, presenting characters that are both compelling and deeply flawed. “Boiling Point” stands as a testament to his ability to blend together complex narratives that remain grounded in human emotion, making it one of the best Takeshi Kitano films of all time.
8. Zatoichi (2003)
“Zatoichi” brings to life the tale of a blind masseur who is also a master swordsman. The titular character, Zatoichi, wanders through 19th-century Japan, offering massages, gambling, and, when the situation demands, showcasing his lethal sword skills. As he enters a town controlled by warring gangs, his sense of justice forces him to intervene. Amidst the strife, Zatoichi also encounters characters that further challenge his moral compass and notions of right and wrong. Throughout the film, Zatoichi confronts and battles numerous foes, ensuring the oppressed find a voice against their oppressors.
In this film, Kitano not only directs but also brilliantly plays the role of Zatoichi, adding depth and nuance to a legendary character. His portrayal is a mix of understated calm and explosive energy, making every scene he’s in captivating. The fusion of traditional samurai action with unexpected moments of humor and musical interludes sets “Zatoichi” apart from typical films of the same genre. Kitano’s vision offers a fresh take on a classic story, making it both accessible to new viewers and a treat for long-time fans, mostly thanks to the unique blend of action, drama, and artistry.
7. Violent Cop (1989)
Detective Azuma, the central character in “Violent Cop,” is a rogue policeman who isn’t afraid to use extreme methods when confronting criminals. As Azuma delves deeper into a case, he unearths corruption within his own ranks. His violent tendencies, coupled with his dedication to justice, put him on a collision course with both the criminal underworld and his fellow officers. Azuma’s relentless pursuit of the truth, regardless of the personal cost, drives the narrative forward.
“Violent Cop” is Takeshi Kitano’s directorial debut, and it establishes many of the themes and styles that would come to define his later works. The stark portrayal of urban decay, the blurred lines between good and evil, and the exploration of individual morality in a corrupt system are all evident in this initial offering. Kitano’s approach to storytelling, combining moments of quiet reflection with bursts of violence, offers a raw and unflinching look at a world where right and wrong are often indistinguishable. This film lays the groundwork for Kitano’s illustrious cinematic journey, making it essential viewing for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
6. Dolls (2002)
“Dolls” includes three separate tales of love, loss, and commitment, bound by the theme of the traditional Japanese Bunraku puppet theater. The first story focuses on Matsumoto and Sawako, a young couple bound by a tragic love, leading them to roam the countryside, tied together with a red cord. Their journey is as much about rediscovery as it is about love’s endurance. The subsequent narratives explore the life of an aging yakuza boss returning to his first love and a pop star who shares a bond with her most devoted fan. Each story thread underscores the lengths to which individuals will go to honor their emotional commitments.
Takeshi Kitano’s “Dolls” is a visually arresting masterpiece that showcases the director’s softer, more contemplative side. His deft touch brings out the raw emotions of the characters, making each scene resonate with the audience. With stunning cinematography and a paced narrative, Kitano examines the complexities of relationships and the sacrifices individuals make in the name of love. The film’s meditative nature, combined with its exploration of deep-seated emotions, makes it one of the best Takeshi Kitano films of all time, standing as testament to the universal nature of love, highlighting its beauty, pain, and enduring presence.
5. Kids Return (1996)
“Kids Return” portrays the intertwined lives of two high school dropouts, Shinji and Masaru, who hail from a small town in Japan. Once labeled as notorious troublemakers throughout their school years, the duo unexpectedly finds themselves aimlessly adrift in the vast ocean of post-graduation life. Rather than taking conventional routes, they unexpectedly venture into the contrasting worlds of amateur boxing and the dangerous yakuza lifestyle. As they deeply immerse themselves in these unfamiliar territories, the two friends confront and grapple with the daunting challenges of adulthood, the weight of ambition, and the complex intricacies that define their deep-rooted friendship.
Under Takeshi Kitano’s direction, “Kids Return” beautifully remains rooted in the raw realities of everyday life. He masterfully and sensitively portrays the tumultuous evolution of Shinji and Masaru, placing a spotlight on their unwavering camaraderie, the numerous struggles they face, and the dreams they relentlessly chase. This film captures the very essence and challenges of the coming-of-age phase, unveiling both the joys and the bittersweet moments that accompany the journey of growing up. Kitano gently nudges audiences to journey back in time, inviting them to reminisce about their own transformative journeys of self-discovery and the pivotal relationships that have undeniably molded them.
4. Kikujiro (1999)
In “Kikujiro,” a young boy named Masao, driven by an innate longing, sets out on a quest to find his estranged mother. Accompanied by an unconventional companion, Kikujiro, a middle-aged man with childlike tendencies and a past laden with regrets, the duo embarks on a summer adventure filled with unexpected encounters, whimsical challenges, and heartwarming moments. As they traverse different landscapes, Masao and Kikujiro, despite their age difference, experience the myriad emotions that form the intricate web of human relationships.
Takeshi Kitano, who brilliantly steps into the shoes of Kikujiro, brings both a touch of humor and a profound sensitivity to the unfolding narrative. His portrayal of Kikujiro resonates with a sense of vulnerability, showing a man trying to escape the shadows of his past. The film gracefully balances the boundless innocence of youth with the weathered wisdom of age, offering viewers a mixture of emotions, from chuckles to moments of profound introspection. Their encounters, ranging from the comical to the deeply moving, highlight the unpredictability of life, firmly cementing it as one of the best Takeshi Kitano films..
3. A Scene at the Sea (1991)
“A Scene at the Sea” tells the heartfelt story of a deaf garbage collector named Shigeru, who, amid the mundanity of his daily routine, stumbles upon a discarded, broken surfboard. This unexpected find lights a spark within him, and inspired by this discovery, he decides to mend the surfboard and embark on a journey to learn the art of surfing. Alongside him, his supportive girlfriend Takako also gets drawn into this mesmerizing world of roaring waves, vast horizons, and sandy beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. Their shared passion, more than just a sport, evolves into a silent, mutual quest for deeper connection, self-discovery, and a place of acceptance within the world.
Kitano employs minimal dialogue, choosing instead to harness the emotive visuals and the ambient sounds of nature to tell the tale. The vastness of the sea, with its ever-changing moods, effectively becomes an integral character in its own right, reflecting and amplifying the inner world of our protagonist. The rhythmic dance of the waves, at times gentle and at other moments fiercely powerful, seamlessly mirrors Shigeru’s fluctuating emotions, spanning the spectrum from tranquil serenity to impassioned turmoil. “A Scene at the Sea” stands as a deeply meditative exploration of love, personal ambition, and the silent yet formidable power of unwavering determination.
2. Sonatine (1993)
“Sonatine” plunges into the dark, unforgiving world of the yakuza, closely following the trials of Murakawa, a Tokyo-based gangster with a storied past. As he navigates the treacherous waters of organized crime, his sense of loyalty is tested. Sent on what initially appears as a simple mediation task in Okinawa, Murakawa soon pieces together that this might be more than just another job, suspecting a potential setup by his own boss. Caught in this web of deception and with tension mounting, he and his team make a tactical decision to retreat to a remote beach house. Here, in this isolated setting, a curious blend of sudden violence and introspective tranquility unfolds, highlighting the complexities of their lives.
Takeshi Kitano excels in his portrayal of Murakawa, a man teetering on the edge, torn between his unwavering sense of duty and deep existential reflections. The serene vistas of the beach, with waves gently lapping at the shore, sharply contrast with sudden, unpredictable outbursts of violence, showcasing Kitano’s unmatched expertise in creating such contrasting atmospheres. “Sonatine,” in its essence, stands as a brilliant testament to Kitano’s distinctive style, blending the rawness of gangster film elements with deeper philosophical nuances. As the story unfolds, it beckons viewers into a world where trust is fleeting, compelling them to deeply reflect on the cyclical nature of life and violence.
1. Hana-bi (1997)
“Hana-bi,” translated as “Fireworks,” explores the tumultuous life of Nishi, a former detective grappling with overwhelming personal tragedies that threaten to consume him. Haunted by the specter of his decisions and their repercussions, after witnessing his colleague Horibe suffer a life-altering injury that leaves him paralyzed and confronting the heart-wrenching reality of his wife’s terminal leukemia diagnosis, Nishi, veers off the path of law. The film beautifully combines intense moments of raw, unbridled emotion with startling bursts of unexpected violence, providing a window into Nishi’s psyche. Through this lens, it becomes evident how the narrative is a testament to the profound depth of Nishi’s love and his unwavering, steadfast devotion, even as shadows of despair loom large.
Takeshi Kitano, as both the director and the protagonist Nishi, crafts a narrative drenched in stark contrasts, highlighting the fragile balance between hope and despair. “Hana-bi” stands tall as an exemplar in cinematic storytelling, with Kitano’s unparalleled vision guiding the tale through the corridors of love, heartbreak, and the quest for redemption. Each frame is a testament to Kitano’s dedication and artistry. The true genius of the film is manifested in its ability to tug at the heartstrings, eliciting a strong emotional response, firmly establishing itself as not just another film, but Kitano’s crowning jewel.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best Takeshi Kitano films of all time:
- Achilles and the Tortoise (2008)
- Boiling Point (1990)
- Zatoichi (2003)
- Violent Cop (1989)
- Dolls (2002)
- Kids Return (1996)
- Kikujiro (1999)
- A Scene at the Sea (1991)
- Sonatine (1993)
- Hana-bi (1997)
