10 Japanese Action Movies You Must Add to Your Watchlist, Here are the Most Recommended Titles

Kapanlagi.com - Japanese films are not only known for their visual beauty or deep philosophical values but also for their sharpness in the action genre. Unlike Hollywood films that rely on explosions and large CGI, Japanese action films often incorporate themes of honor, sacrifice, and morality.

It’s no wonder that action films from the Land of the Rising Sun often leave a strong impression on audiences. From samurai battles to yakuza dramas, from brutal action to emotional revenge, all wrapped in a distinctive Japanese aesthetic that is not easily replicated.

For those looking for exciting viewing that also has story value, here are 10 of the best Japanese action movie recommendations that must be on your watchlist.

1. SEVEN SAMURAI

A must-watch Japanese action film (credit:imdb)

This film by Akira Kurosawa is a legend in the history of world cinema. Telling the story of seven samurai who protect a village from bandit attacks, this film is filled with intense and meaningful action scenes.

Its main strength lies not only in the fighting but also in the deep characterization of each samurai. They are depicted with unique morals and fighting skills that make the story even more dramatic.

2. BATTLE ROYALE

Japanese action film that must be watched (credit:imdb)

Directed by Kinji Fukasaku, this film features a group of students forced to fight each other until only one survives. Set against a controversial government program, this film garnered worldwide attention.

The fights among teenagers on a remote island not only showcase violence but also reveal human psychology when faced with life and death. This film is noted as an early inspiration for THE HUNGER GAMES.

3. ICHI THE KILLER

Japanese action film that must be watched (credit:imdb)

This film directed by Takashi Miike features Ichi, a hitman with psychological trauma and high sadism. He must confront Kakihara, a brutal yakuza filled with chaos.

With extreme visual style and deep exploration of violence, this film has sparked controversy in various countries. However, it is precisely because of this that the film stands out in the action genre.

4. AZUMI

Japanese action films that must be watched (credit:imdb)

Azumi is an orphaned girl trained to be an elite assassin to kill warlords in the Sengoku era. Raised in the harshness of ninja training, she faces many inner conflicts in each of her tasks.

This film features action scenes with sharp choreography and a tight plot. The character Azumi is portrayed with both assertiveness and vulnerability as an ordinary human.

5. CROWS ZERO

Japanese action films that must be watched (credit:imdb)

This film tells the story of Genji, a yakuza kid who wants to become the ruler of Suzuran High School, a brutal school filled with gangs and violence. He must defeat Tamao, the respected gang leader who came before him.

The hand-to-hand combat scenes are portrayed brutally and realistically. Along with a narrative about friendship and self-esteem, this film has formed its own fanbase among teenage action enthusiasts.

6. TOKYO GORE POLICE

Japanese action films that must be watched (credit:imdb)

In a dystopian world, the police must eradicate mutants called Engineers who possess biological weapons. Ruka, the female protagonist in this film, must confront personal trauma and a secret organization.

This film is a visual parade of the absurd, filled with blood, body parts, and extreme scenes. Despite being controversial, its unique visual style makes it a hallmark of the Japanese gore genre.

7. CONFESSIONS

Japanese action films that must be watched (credit:imdb)

Yuko Moriguchi, a teacher who lost her child, takes psychological revenge on two middle school students. It is not physical action that is highlighted, but the mental pressure that makes this film gripping.

With a non-linear narrative and artistic visuals, Confessions offers tension in a different way. This film proves that revenge does not always have to be bloody.

8. 13 ASSASSINS

Must-watch Japanese action films (credit:imdb)

A remake of the classic 1963 film, it tells the story of 13 samurai sent to kill Naritsugu, a sadistic nobleman who wants to incite war. They face moral challenges and life-and-death battles.

The final battle lasts over 40 minutes, making it the main attraction of this film. Strategy and teamwork become the impressive strengths of the narrative.

9. RUROUNI KENSHIN SERIES

Must-watch Japanese action films (credit:imdb)

Starting from RUROUNI KENSHIN (2012) to THE BEGINNING (2021), this film follows Kenshin Himura, a former assassin trying to atone for his sins. He fights with his signature sword technique against past enemies.

The series features fast-paced fight action, beautiful cinematography, and touching drama. One of the best live-action manga adaptations from Japan.

10. SHIN GODZILLA

Must-watch Japanese action films (credit:imdb)

This film presents Godzilla in a new, more destructive, and terrifying form. However, the focus is not only on the monster but also on the reactions of the Japanese government and military in handling the crisis.

The main appeal of this film lies in its strategic, political, and symbolic aspects regarding the national crisis. Still maintaining stunning visual effects that make the tension feel real.

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(kpl/vna)