7 Viral Japanese Films That Spark Curiosity, Some Won an Oscar

The first viral Japanese film MONSTER (2023), depicts the struggle of Saori Mugino, a mother trying to protect her child, Minato, from school violence. The conflict between the mother, the child, and the school creates a deeply emotional story. With a rating of 9.0 on MyDramaList, MONSTER has become one of the best films of the year and is available on Netflix.

As the title suggests, ASAKO I & II (2018) tells the story of Asako, a young woman who falls in love with Baku, a free-spirited man who suddenly disappears. Two years later, Asako meets Ryohei, a man who looks very much like Baku. This emotional journey of Asako provides a unique experience for the audience. With a rating of 7.1 on MyDramaList, this film is available on Apple TV.

SHOPLIFTERS (2018) is also one of the viral Japanese films. This film tells the story of a poor family living by stealing items from stores. They find a little girl who has been abandoned and take her in as a family member. However, their secrets begin to unravel as the police investigate a kidnapping case. This film has a rating of 8.3 on MyDramaList and can be watched on Prime Video.

DRIVE MY CAR (2021) tells the emotional journey of Yusuke Kafuku, a theater actor struggling to cope with the loss of his wife. In the process, he finds new meaning in life through his relationships with those around him. The film not only went viral, but it also won an Oscar. It has a rating of 8.0 on MyDramaList and is available for you to watch on Netflix.

Set in the aftermath of World War II, the film GODZILLA MINUS ONE (2023) tells the story of Koichi Shikishima's struggle against Godzilla, which emerges as a result of nuclear testing. With rising tension, Shikishima must confront trauma and a significant threat to Japan. This action-packed film has a rating of 8.3 on MyDramaList and is available on Netflix.

Another viral Japanese film, YOUR LIE IN APRIL (2016) tells the story of Kosei Arima, a young pianist who loses his passion for playing the piano after his mother's death. The arrival of Kaori Miyazono, a violinist, helps Kosei rediscover his love for music and find new meaning in life. With a rating of 7.9 on MyDramaList, YOUR LIE IN APRIL can be enjoyed on popular streaming services.

THE LAST 10 YEARS (2022) tells the story of Matsuri Takabayashi, a young woman who is diagnosed with only ten years to live due to a rare lung disease. At a school reunion, Matsuri meets Kazuto Manabe, an old friend who then falls in love with her. Their story is full of emotions and messages about life. The film has a rating of 8.3 on MyDramaList. Find other interesting Japanese movie recommendations at kapanlagi.com. If not now, when?