6 Most Thrilling and Exciting Underrated Japanese Thriller Films, A Shame to Miss

The world of Japanese cinema is not only known for its iconic romantic dramas and anime. The thriller genre from the Land of the Rising Sun also holds many high-quality works that are not widely known. Therefore, there are many underrated Japanese thriller films that often escape attention but have very strong storylines.

In fact, Japanese films in this genre offer chilling tension, plots full of surprises, and complex characters. Many of them present a dark atmosphere and mysteries that keep you guessing until the end of the film. Underrated Japanese thrillers use a unique approach that piques curiosity.

Several underrated Japanese films have achieved high ratings but are less widely known due to limited distribution or minimal marketing. Here are six recommendations for underrated Japanese thriller films that should be on your next watch list.

1. BAD LANDS (2023)

BAD LANDS (credit: mydramalist)

BAD LANDS tells the story of a pair of siblings, Neri and Jo, who live off their con artist schemes. One night, they accidentally acquire a massive amount of money, reaching hundreds of millions of yen. Their fortune turns into a disaster as they are hunted by various dangerous parties wanting to seize the money. Now, they must survive while constantly running from pursuers.

As an underrated Japanese thriller film, BAD LANDS offers a dark and intense atmosphere from the start. Although not very popular, this film has still managed to capture the attention of thriller enthusiasts with a rating of 7.1 on MyDramaList.

2. LESSON IN MURDER (2022)

LESSON IN MURDER (credit: mydramalist)

The story of LESSON IN MURDER (2022) centers on Masaya, a college student whose life feels boring and bleak. His life changes when he receives a letter from Haimura, a serial killer who has been sentenced to death.

Haimura claims to have killed eight people but denies involvement in the ninth murder. Masaya, who once knew Haimura as the owner of a bakery during his middle school years, is compelled to investigate the case.

This underrated Japanese thriller presents a unique story as it combines strong psychological and criminal elements. The film received a rating of 7.5 on MyDramaList, making it perfect for those who enjoy mystery stories with deep emotional layers.

3. HOPE (2020)

HOPE (credit: mydramalist)

The film HOPE tells the story of the Ishikawa family, which appears perfect from the outside. Kazuto is a successful architect and lives in a luxurious house with his wife and their two children. However, everything changes when their son, Tadashi, goes missing after coming home late several times. The tension escalates when news breaks that Tadashi's classmate has been found dead.

As one of the underrated Japanese thriller films, HOPE is very strong in building a chilling atmosphere within the family context. The story develops by touching on the emotional side of parents confronted with horrific suspicions about their own child. With a rating of 7.6 on MyDramaList, this film is suitable for those who enjoy psychological dramas with high tension.

4. DINER (2019)

DINER (credit: mydramalist)

DINER tells the story of Kanako Oba who just wants to find a part-time job, but instead gets caught in a dangerous situation. She is forced to become a waitress at an exclusive restaurant whose regular customers are hitmen. If she refuses to work, her life is at stake. The restaurant only serves certain members, making it a place full of secrets and deadly danger.

DINER is an underrated Japanese thriller film that features artistic visuals and a stylish atmosphere. Although it feels theatrical, the tension remains strong from start to finish. With a rating of 7.5 on MyDramaList, this film is perfect for those looking for a thriller with a unique concept and strong artistic elements.

5. THE CRIMES THAT BIND (2018)

THE CRIMES THAT BIND (credit: mydramalist)

The story of THE CRIMES THAT BIND begins when a woman's body is found strangled in an apartment, opening a new chapter of mystery. However, at the same time, the apartment's residents go missing. As a result, the investigation hits a dead end.

However, the case begins to develop when Detective Kaga discovers a connection to a theater director named Asai. Shocking facts are finally revealed, shaking the investigation process.

THE CRIMES THAT BIND is an underrated Japanese thriller film that presents a complex investigation with a slow yet sharp plot. Every clue that emerges brings new surprises. This film has a high rating of 7.6 on MyDramaList.

6. GENOME HAZARD (2014)

GENOME HAZARD (credit: mydramalist)

GENOME HAZARD is an underrated Japanese thriller film that presents a puzzling story that will test the audience's logic. GENOME HAZARD tells the story of Taketo Ishigami, who is shocked to find his wife's body, only to receive a phone call from her moments later. His memories begin to unravel, and he feels he is losing control of himself.

Ishigami, who appears to be an ordinary man, actually possesses extraordinary knowledge in the field of chemistry. Because of this ability, Ishigami is pursued by a mysterious group. With the help of a Korean journalist, he attempts to uncover hidden secrets within himself. This film has a rating of 7.5 on MyDramaList.

Discover other interesting Japanese film recommendations at kapanlagi.com. If not now, when?

(kpl/psp)