Okinawa, a Japanese island with breathtaking landscapes and a strong cultural heritage, has served as the setting for a diverse array of films that span various genres, themes, and narratives. From gripping dramas and action-packed thrillers to introspective explorations of human nature and relationships, these films utilize Okinawa not just as a location but as a vital component of their storytelling. Whether through the lens of a local or a visitor, these films invite audiences to experience Okinawa in ways that are thought-provoking, visually stunning, and emotionally powerful. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best films set in Okinawa.
10. The Karate Kid Part II – John G. Avildsen (1986)
In “The Karate Kid Part II”, the story continues on from the first film as Daniel LaRusso accompanies his mentor, Mr. Miyagi, back to Okinawa, Miyagi’s birthplace. Here, they confront old rivals and unearth long-buried family secrets, as Daniel learns more about the depth of karate beyond just fighting. Their journey introduces new challenges and alliances, showing the growth of Daniel under Miyagi’s tutelage against the vibrant and traditional Okinawan setting. The exploration of Okinawan traditions enriches Daniel’s understanding and respect for martial arts, adding deeper layers of meaning into his practice. This sequel explores themes of honor, friendship, and the importance of understanding one’s roots.
This film showcases Okinawa as an integral part of the narrative, offering a glimpse into the customs and the spirit of the people there. Through the eyes of Daniel, audiences explore the contrast between the serene beauty of the island and the intensity of the conflicts that arise. As Daniel navigates these personal and cultural clashes, he gains insights into the complexities of loyalty and courage. The cultural elements of Okinawa, from traditional dance to the significance of karate, are displayed throughout the storyline, providing a dynamic exploration of how environment shapes character. “The Karate Kid Part II” succeeds in capturing the essence of Okinawa, making it a memorable setting that contributes significantly to the film’s enduring appeal.
9. Tomorrow Never Dies – Roger Spottiswoode (1997)
“Tomorrow Never Dies” thrusts James Bond into the digital age, where he battles a media mogul intent on causing a global conflict to boost his news empire’s ratings. Part of Bond’s mission takes him to Okinawa, where the blend of technology and tradition highlights the film’s thematic concerns with the power of information and the lengths individuals will go to control it. The Okinawan setting adds a unique layer to the espionage and action, providing a distinct contrast to the high-tech villainy Bond faces. In Okinawa, Bond’s encounters with local figures add further depth to the narrative, highlighting the personal impacts of global conflicts. This setting is a crucial piece of the narrative puzzle, showcasing Okinawa’s unique blend of traditional culture and modernity.
The film uses Okinawa to highlight the global stakes of Bond’s mission, showing the island’s strategic significance in the broader geopolitical game. The contrast of the tranquil landscapes with the high-octane action sequences adds to the film’s tension, making these scenes particularly memorable, and ensuring that this is one of the best films set in Okinawa. Tensions are further amplified by the cultural differences Bond faces, offering a commentary on the clash between tradition and technological advancement. The serene Japanese island locale contrasts with the film’s central themes of manipulation and control, providing a thought-provoking aspect to the unfolding drama.
8. The Battle of Okinawa – Kihachi Okamoto (1971)
“The Battle of Okinawa” presents a harrowing account of the titular 1945 conflict, one of the Pacific War’s last major battles. Directed by Kihachi Okamoto, this war film offers a raw and unflinching look at the human cost of war on both the military and civilian populations of Okinawa. Through its portrayal of the battle’s chaos and the strategy behind it, the film provides insight into the experiences of those who lived through these harsh time. The narrative takes a look at the psychological impact on soldiers and civilians alike, exposing the enduring scars left by warfare. It explores the complexities of war, emphasizing the resilience of the human spirit amidst destruction.
This film sets itself apart by focusing on the impact of the battle on Okinawa and its people, providing a voice to the often overlooked civilian perspective in wartime narratives. Okamoto’s direction balances the epic scale of war with intimate human stories, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences. The film also explores the aftermath of the conflict, including the rebuilding efforts and the community’s attempts to recover from such profound loss. The cinematography captures the contrasts of the once beautiful island landscape as it is turned into a battlefield, highlighting the tragedy of war’s scars on nature and human life.
7. Glasses – Naoko Ogigami (2007)
“Glasses” is a gentle, contemplative movie set in Okinawa and directed by Naoko Ogigami. It follows the story of Taeko, a woman who seeks solitude on the island, only to find herself in a quirky community where the locals live by their own rules, embracing simplicity and nature. Her initial resistance to the island’s laid-back lifestyle gradually gives way to an appreciation for its unhurried pace and the meaningful connections it creates. Through her journey, the film explores themes of self-discovery, the beauty of slowing down, and the joy of connecting with others on one’s own terms. This exploration is punctuated by moments of silent reflection and the scenic beauty of Okinawa, which together help to enhance the film’s themes.
Ogigami’s film is celebrated for its poetic storytelling style and the beautiful, tranquil setting of Okinawa, which plays a central role in the narrative. The director uses the island’s lush landscapes and the simple lifestyle of its inhabitants to create a story that encourages viewers to reconsider their own lifestyles and values. Each character Taeko encounters serves as a mirror, reflecting back to her the possibility of living differently, more attuned to the rhythms of nature and community. “Glasses” stands out as a unique cinematic experience, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the soothing pace of island life, ensuring its place as one of the best films set in Okinawa.
6. Boiling Point – Takeshi Kitano (1990)
“Boiling Point” follows the story of Masaki, a young gas station attendant who finds himself invovled in the violent world of the yakuza after a series of humiliating events. Directed by Takeshi Kitano, who also stars in the film, it combines dark humor with moments of shocking violence, illustrating Masaki’s descent into a chaotic underworld far removed from his mundane daily life. The narrative portrays Masaki’s journey with an almost dreamlike logic, showcasing the unpredictability and brutality of the gangster lifestyle. As the story unfolds, Masaki encounters a series of eccentric characters, each adding complexity to his understanding of loyalty and justice in the yakuza code.
Set in Okinawa, “Boiling Point” utilizes the island’s distinctive atmosphere to contrast the serene beauty of the landscape with the turbulent lives of its characters. The cinematography captures the tranquil yet eerie essence of Okinawa. This setting becomes a silent witness to Masaki’s transformation, reflecting the internal conflict and growth he experiences throughout his journey. Kitano’s direction and storytelling style give the film a unique style, making it a standout entry in the genre. The contrast of Okinawa’s peaceful environment with the film’s violent and chaotic events further highlights the absurdity and despair of Masaki’s entanglement with the yakuza.
5. Rage – Lee Sang-il (2016)
“Rage” is a Japanese mystery drama directed by Lee Sang-il and set in Okinawa and several other locations across Japan. The film explores the aftermath of a brutal murder, bringing together the lives of three seemingly unrelated stories as they cross paths with a mysterious stranger. It examines themes of trust, suspicion, and the search for truth, while the identity of the murderer remains a central puzzle. As the investigation unfolds, the audience is drawn deeper into the complexities of human relationships, revealing how quickly fear can unravel the fabric of a community. “Rage” combines elements of suspense and human drama, drawing viewers into its complex web of emotions and revelations.
Okinawa embodies a critical piece of the film’s emotional landscape, with its serene vistas and cultural depth adding layers to the story’s exploration of human nature and forgiveness. The island’s natural beauty contrasts sharply with the dark, often tense narrative, highlighting the isolation and search for connection that the characters face. Lee Sang-il’s direction ensures that the beauty of Okinawa enhances the storytelling, offering a visual metaphor for the characters’ internal turmoil and the dualities within human nature. The diverse settings across Japan, including Okinawa, help to underline the universal themes of the story. “Rage” stands out for its compelling performances and the hauntingly beautiful way it captures the essence of its locations, making it one of the best films set in Okinawa.
4. Sympathy for the Underdog – Kinji Fukasaku (1971)
“Sympathy for the Underdog” tells the story of a yakuza boss, Gunji, who, after being released from prison, finds that his gang has been disbanded. Seeking to reclaim his former glory, he relocates to Okinawa with his loyal followers to start anew but quickly becomes involved in a turf war with the local crime syndicates. Directed by Kinji Fukasaku, the film is an action-packed exploration of loyalty, ambition, and survival within the criminal underworld. Gunji’s efforts to face the complexities of Okinawa’s underworld show a man out of time, struggling to uphold his values in an era that no longer respects them. The contrast between the traditional yakuza code of honor and the changing times of Japan offer a look at the challenges of adapting to a new era.
Set in Okinawa during the 1970s, the island’s unique culture and landscape add a distinct flavor to the narrative. The tension between the local gangs and Gunji’s crew, along with the beauty of Okinawa, creates a striking visual and thematic contrast. This duality mirrors the inner conflict of Gunji, who finds himself torn between his criminal past and the desire for a peaceful life. Fukasaku utilizes the setting to explore themes of displacement and the search for identity amidst the chaos of change. The film also explores the impact of external forces on Okinawa, reflecting broader social and political shifts in Japan at the time. “Sympathy for the Underdog” is celebrated for its raw portrayal of gangster life, innovative cinematography, and the way it captures the spirit of a bygone era.
3. Profound Desires of the Gods – Shōhei Imamura (1968)
“Profound Desires of the Gods” is a film that explores the lives of a deeply superstitious family living on a remote island in Okinawa. Directed by Shōhei Imamura, it examines the clash between modernity and ancient customs, portraying the islanders’ struggle to maintain their traditional way of life amidst external pressures and internal desires. Through a series of interconnected stories, Imamura explores themes of loneliness, forbidden love, and the inevitable intrusion of progress. The film also depicts the tension between the younger generation’s curiosity about the outside world and their elders’ determination to preserve their heritage. The narrative’s slow unraveling reveals the complexities of human nature and the connection between people and their environment.
Imamura’s film is as much an anthropological study as it is a cinematic experience, with Okinawa’s lush landscapes playing a central role. The deliberate pace and immersive depiction of the island’s culture invites viewers to reflect on the impact of modernization on indigenous communities. The use of non-professional actors and natural settings enhances the authenticity of the narrative, offering a powerful glimpse into the struggles between tradition and change. Imamura also critiques the homogenizing effect of globalization, suggesting that the loss of traditional cultures is a loss for humanity as a whole. “Profound Desires of the Gods” remains celebrated for the questions it raises about civilization, spirituality, and survival, ensuring its place as one of the best films set in Okinawa.
2. All About Lily Chou-Chou – Shunji Iwai (2001)
“All About Lily Chou-Chou” follows the life of a teenage boy, Yuichi, who finds solace in the ethereal music of Lily Chou-Chou, a fictional pop singer, while he suffers from bullying and loneliness in his everyday life. Directed by Shunji Iwai, this film captures the intensity of adolescence, the escapism provided by internet culture, and the harsh reality of youth violence. The film addresses the dual life led by many teenagers today, split between their online personas and their real-world struggles. Through an innovative narrative structure that blends online forum posts with traditional storytelling, it offers a powerful commentary on the isolation and despair felt by teenagers facing the complexities of modern society.
The setting of Okinawa serves as a critical escape for Yuichi, offering a brief respite from his troubled life and symbolizing the purity and innocence he longs to return to. The tranquil moments Yuichi experiences in Okinawa contrast with his chaotic life in the city, emphasizing the restorative power of nature. Iwai’s use of the island’s scenic beauty, combined with the haunting soundtrack of Lily Chou-Chou, creates a dreamlike atmosphere that reflects the film’s themes of longing and the search for identity. “All About Lily Chou-Chou” is a visually stunning film that takes a close look at the psyche of its young protagonists, making it a memorable exploration of the pain and beauty of adolescence.
1. Sonatine – Takeshi Kitano (1993)
“Sonatine” follows the adventures of Murakawa, an aging yakuza boss sent to Okinawa to mediate a gang war that quickly turns into a trap, leading him and his men to retreat to a remote beach house. Directed by and starring Takeshi Kitano, the film is a departure from conventional yakuza narratives, combining moments of violence with serene contemplation and comedy. Kitano’s character, Murakawa, embarks on a reflective journey, finding unexpected moments of peace and playfulness despite the looming threat of death. The deliberate pacing and minimalist dialogue highglight the futility and isolation inherent in the gangster lifestyle, offering a meditative take on the genre.
Okinawa’s tranquil beaches and natural landscapes play a pivotal role in “Sonatine,” serving not just as a setting but as a character that influences the film’s mood and the transformation of its characters. The contrast between the violent life Murakawa has led and the simplicity he finds in Okinawa raises questions about destiny, choice, and the search for meaning beyond the confines of one’s circumstances. The film suggests that the serene Okinawan setting offers not just a physical but also a spiritual refuge from the violence that defines Murakawa’s existence. Kitano’s use of the island setting to highlight the contrast between the action-packed yakuza life and the possibility of a different, more peaceful existence, makes this one of the best films set in Okinawa.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best films set in Okinawa:
- The Karate Kid Part II – John G. Avildsen (1986)
- Tomorrow Never Dies – Roger Spottiswoode (1997)
- The Battle of Okinawa – Kihachi Okamoto (1971)
- Glasses – Naoko Ogigami (2007)
- Boiling Point – Takeshi Kitano (1990)
- Rage – Lee Sang-il (2016)
- Sympathy for the Underdog – Kinji Fukasaku (1971)
- Profound Desires of the Gods – Shōhei Imamura (1968)
- All About Lily Chou-Chou – Shunji Iwai (2001)
- Sonatine – Takeshi Kitano (1993)
