Japanese Action Films Full of Tension, Just as Exciting as Hollywood Films

Kapanlagi.com - Who says films are just ordinary entertainment? With a variety of genres available, films can be your loyal companion during your free time! One that catches attention is Japanese action films from 2020 to 2022.

The Japanese entertainment industry turns out to excel not only in the world of anime but also in producing films with thrilling and exciting storylines. Their action genre is just as exciting compared to Hollywood works.

For KLovers who are on the hunt for trending Japanese action films, here are some recommendations from 2020 to 2022 that will surely satisfy your curiosity. Let’s take a look at the list of films! (kpl/gen/dhm)

1. ALICE IN BORDERLAND (2020)

(credit: mydramalist)

One of the must-watch Japanese action films from 2020 to 2022 is the Netflix Original series titled ALICE IN BORDERLAND, which is adapted from the manga by Hara Aso. Launched on December 10, 2020, this series consists of 8 thrilling episodes. The story focuses on Arisu, a young unemployed man obsessed with video games, who suddenly finds himself trapped in a strange situation while at Shibuya Crossing with two of his friends. As they try to escape from the police pursuit, they realize that Tokyo has drastically changed: the power is out, and everyone has vanished. To survive, Arisu and his friends must participate in dangerous life-threatening games, with time running out before they are forced to play other deadly games. ALICE IN BORDERLAND is not just mere entertainment, but also an exhilarating adventure that is not to be missed!

2. THE VOICE OF SIN (2020)

One of the must-watch Japanese action films from 2020 to 2022 is "THE VOICE OF SIN," which is adapted from an inspiring novel by Takeshi Shiota. Directed by the renowned Nobuhiro Doi, the film first premiered in Japan in October 2020. The story focuses on a newspaper reporter who gets caught up in a dark mystery: an unsolved extortion case that has lasted for 30 years. A group of cunning criminals uses tapes to intimidate large companies for profit. With a thrilling and intricate plot, "THE VOICE OF SIN" is an action treat that you shouldn't miss!

3. RUROUNI KENSHIN (2021)

(credit: mydramalist)

For KLovers who are fans of the anime world, you must be familiar with SAMURAI X! Yes, the film titled RUROUNI KENSHIN is a live-action adaptation of that legendary anime. It tells the journey of Himura Kenshin, a samurai trying to atone for his past sins as a brutal killer named Battousai. This film first premiered in 2012 and continued to capture attention until its final edition in 2021. With a combination of thrilling action and a realistic portrayal of real-life situations, RUROUNI KENSHIN successfully captivated the hearts of fans and critics, making it one of the most acclaimed works in this genre. Now, Kenshin transforms into a wandering samurai determined to protect his people from the threat of imperialist forces.

4. THE FABLE: A HITMAN WHO DOESN'T KILL (2021)

Don't miss the groundbreaking Japanese action film, THE FABLE: A HITMAN WHO DOESN'T KILL, released in February 2021! The story follows Akira, a legendary hitman who chooses to leave the dark world behind for a peaceful life with his sister, Yoko. However, fate is not always kind; orders from his boss force him to plunge back into a life full of danger. With a thrilling plot and plenty of surprises, this film is ready to captivate its audience!

5. PURE JAPANESE (2022)

Watch PURE JAPANESE, a must-see Japanese action film from 2020 to 2022! Just released in 2022, this film tells the emotional journey of an actor named Daisuke Tateishi. After experiencing a traumatic incident while shooting that left him severely injured, Daisuke chooses to isolate himself from the acting world. However, fate leads him to meet Ayumi, a high school girl who often falls victim to harassment by Chinese brokers and the Yakuza. Feeling called to protect Ayumi, Daisuke rises from the darkness of his past and is determined to be her guardian, fighting against injustice to save the girl trapped in trouble.

6. TOKYO REVENGERS LIVE ACTION (2021)

One of the must-watch Japanese action films from 2020 to 2022 is "TOKYO REVENGERS LIVE ACTION," an amazing adaptation of the highly popular manga and anime. The story focuses on Takamichi, a young man who struggles to save his girlfriend from a tragic death, which leads him to become trapped in a challenging motorcycle gang world. For fans of the "TOKYO REVENGERS" manga and anime, this film is definitely a must-have on your watchlist, as it offers thrilling action and unforgettable emotions!

7. A FAMILY (2021)

(credit: mydramalist)

One of the must-watch Japanese action films between 2020 and 2022 is "A FAMILY," directed by Michihito Fujii. It tells the emotional journey of a yakuza family from 1999 to 2019, following Kenji Yamamoto, a young man who falls into despair after losing his father to an overdose. In his search for meaning in life, Kenji gets drawn into the criminal world and forms a strong bond with the gang leader, Hiroshi Shibasaki, who becomes a father figure to him. However, Kenji's life begins to take a turn when he meets Ono Machiko, presenting a significant dilemma: remain loyal to his family ties as a yakuza or choose love and lead a normal life with Ono. This question is thought-provoking, taking the audience on an inner journey filled with tension and difficult choices.

8. YAKUZA AND THE FAMILY (2021)

This film tells the dramatic journey of Yamamoto Kenji, a man trapped in darkness after losing his father to drugs. In deep despair, he falls into the world of crime and meets Shibasaki Hiroshi, a yakuza boss who treats him like his own child. The father-son relationship that develops between them becomes the core emotional element of this film. Over two decades (1999–2019), Kenji struggles at the crossroads of loyalty and family love, revealing the tender side behind the harsh life of Japanese gangsters filled with intrigue and conflict.

9. PURE JAPANESE (2022)

(credit: mydramalist)

Tateishi Daisuke, an action actor haunted by the trauma of an on-set accident, struggles against the loneliness that envelops his life. However, fate leads him to meet Ayumi, a high school girl who is relentlessly targeted by local thugs and the Chinese mafia. In a heroic moment of saving Ayumi, Daisuke unwittingly plunges into a world filled with violence and intrigue. Over time, he begins to lose control of himself, seeing violence as the only way to gain the recognition he has long sought.

10. FROM TODAY, IT'S MY TURN!!: THE MOVIE (2020)

This film is an adaptation of a famous manga that combines fresh comedy with thrilling action. It tells the story of Mitsuhashi and Ito, two high school students who transform into delinquents to face the threat of school bullies, and the story heats up when their rivals from Hokunei High join the conflict. With a mix of exciting fights, hilarious laughs, and strong bonds of friendship, this film offers an entertaining yet tension-filled viewing experience!

11. THE CONFIDENCE MAN JP: PRINCESS (2020)

(credit: mydramalist)

In this captivating film, the audience is invited to explore the exotic island of Langkawi, Malaysia, where a trio of skilled con artists—Dako, Boku-chan, and Richard—attempt to deceive the wealthy Fuu family after the departure of their patriarch, who left behind a fantastic inheritance of 10 trillion yen. With a mix of thrilling intrigue, clever action, and a touch of typical Japanese humor, this film presents a tantalizing game of manipulation, making it an action-drama filled with surprises and unpredictability.

12. THE PROMISED NEVERLAND (2020)

Although adapted from an anime, this film offers deep and intense psychological tension. In the cheerful atmosphere of Grace Field House, a group of orphans appears to live happily under the care of their Mama. However, behind their smiles lies a dark secret: these children are actually being raised to be food for a terrifying race of demons. In an effort to fight against the predetermined fate, the two main characters, Emma and Norman, lead a dramatic escape filled with risks. The tension built in this film not only presents thrilling action but also conveys a profound message about the courage and ingenuity of children fighting against a cruel system.

13. RUROUNI KENSHIN: THE BEGINNING (2021)

(credit: mydramalist)

In this stirring prequel to the legendary series Rurouni Kenshin, viewers are invited to delve into the past of Himura Kenshin, who was once known as the assassin Hitokiri Battousai. Amid the turmoil of the late Tokugawa era, Kenshin meets Yukishiro Tomoe, a mysterious figure who will change the course of his life forever. This film not only features epic battles but also explores the physical and emotional scars that shape Kenshin's character, including the story behind the X-shaped scar that adorns his cheek. Witness this meaningful journey of sacrifice!

14. JIGOKU-NO-HANAZONO: OFFICE ROYALE (2021)

(credit: mydramalist)

This film offers an intriguing combination of comedy and action amidst the chaos of an office environment. Tanaka Naoko, a 26-year-old ordinary employee, finds herself trapped in a world dominated by office lady gangs that are not afraid to fight. One day, their company becomes the target of another group from all over Japan, and Naoko, who was initially passive, suddenly gets involved in a massive war among OLs (Office Ladies). From here, thrilling and absurd fight scenes are created. The film combines elements of action, comedy, and drama in an entertaining and unique way.

15. Recommended Japanese Action Films 2020-2022

Japanese action films have a unique appeal that sets them apart from Hollywood productions, focusing on the psychological and moral depth behind each scene, rather than just stunning visual effects. Yakuza themes often take the spotlight as they represent the complex conflicts of loyalty, honor, and social sins deeply rooted in Japanese culture. One interesting example is the film "Pure Japanese," which not only showcases extreme violence but also invites the audience to reflect on the psychological aspects behind it. Meanwhile, "The Promised Neverland," although featuring children, presents dark and psychological themes more suitable for teenagers and adults. With all these unique qualities, Japanese action films from 2020 to 2022 are worth watching and should not be missed. Get the latest information about the celebrity world only at Kapanlagi.com. Don't wait any longer, KapanLagi?

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