All 19 Toshiaki Karasawa Movies In Order — All The Best (And Worst) Films To Watch Online
Get ready to dive into the captivating world of Toshiaki Karasawa with this roundup article! Our focus is on bringing you up-to-date information about his best movies. From high-action thrillers to heartwarming dramas, we’ve got you covered. Don’t miss out on this in-depth look into the life and work of this talented actor and filmmaker.
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1. Minamoto Yoshitsune (1991)
Minamoto Yoshitsune, a stirring 4-hour epic drama, delves into the thrilling world of late Heian-era Japan. The film takes viewers through an extraordinary duel between the fierce warrior monk Musashibo Benkei and Shanao, a graceful young samurai who plays the flute.
2. Kowagaru hitobito (1994)
“Kowagaru hitobito, “ a thrilling omnibus film released in 1994, presents an exciting mix of comedy, horror, and thriller genres with three interconnected short stories. Directed by Makoto Wada, the movie stars Hiroyuki Sanada, Mieko Harada, and Mami Kumagai in their diverse and mesmerizing roles. Based on the short stories of Jokichi Hikage, Roko Hirayama, and Makoto Shiina, “Kowagaru hitobito” is a showcase of talent from both established and emerging writers.
3. Basudei purezento (1995)
Basudei Purezento is a heartwarming romantic drama set in Japan, released in 1995. Directed by Michio Mitsuno, the film centers around Akiko, a stewardess who is about to embark on her wedding journey with her fiancé Kuroki. However, just as the day of her birthday, when the engagement is abruptly called off, she takes off for an unplanned adventure on an airplane.
4. Boku ga boku de aru tameni (1997)
Boku ga boku de aru tameni is a captivating drama film released in 1997, starring the talented members of the popular Japanese boy band SMAP. Set six years after the Ekiden team’s glory days, the film takes an in-depth look at the lives and personal growth of its protagonists.
5. Welcome Back, Mr. McDonald (1997)
Experience the delightful chaos of a live radio play in Welcome Back, Mr. McDonald (1997). Based on the original Tokyo Sunshine Boys story, this neo screwball comedy takes the audience on a hilarious journey. As a radio play is about to hit the live airwaves, an actress abruptly changes her character’s name, triggering a spiraling battle of egos among the cast. As the play unfolds, scriptwriters scramble to accommodate the sudden change, resulting in a rollercoaster of unexpected twists.
6. Round About Midnight (1999)
“Midnight Encounter” is a 1999 thriller film directed by Makoto Wada and penned by Takashi Hasegawa and Wada himself. The movie features Hiroyuki Sanada, Michelle Reis, and Akira Emoto and was premiered on November 3, 2000.
7. Minna no ie (2001)
“Minna no ie” is a charming Japanese comedy that delves into the clash of styles between tradition and modernity. The story revolves around a couple who builds their dream house with the help of the wife’s father, a contractor. However, the wife is determined to have a modern and sleek house and hires a young man to complete the job. This leads to a series of comical misunderstandings and arguments, as the father’s involvement is still required.
8. Ao no hono-o (2003)
“Ao no hono-o” is a gripping Japanese drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The film follows the life of a happy 17-year-old Japanese student who lives with his mother and sister. However, their peaceful existence is shattered when the boy’s stepfather, a cruel, drunk man, returns into their lives, causing tension and hardship within the family.
9. Casshern (2004)
Immerse yourself in the dystopian world of Casshern, a 2004 live-action sci-fi thriller based on a classic 1973 Japanese animé. This unique adaptation boasts a captivating theme song by Utada Hikaru, transporting you to a world where biotechnology reigns supreme and humanity’s darkest secrets are brought to life.
10. Warau Iemon (2004)
Warau Iemon, released in 2004, is a captivating jidai geki based on a novel that takes the viewers on a dramatic and horrifying journey. The film follows the story of Iemon, a masterless samurai who gave up his sword and resides in solitude, haunted by his violent and enigmatic past.
11. Suite Dreams (2006)
“Suite Dreams, “ also known as “Uchôten hoteru, “ is a captivating comedy, drama, and romance film set in a luxurious Japanese hotel on New Year’s Eve. The movie follows a series of unexpected events that unfold simultaneously, creating a whirlwind of chaos amid the usual festivities and celebrations.
12. The Magic Hour (2008)
The Magic Hour, a 2008 Japanese comedy, is a witty and intriguing tale set in the bustling port town of Sukago. A hustler, played by Kôichi Satô, finds himself in hot water with a ruthless gang boss.
13. 20th Century Boys 1: Beginning of the End (2008)
“20th Century Boys 1: Beginning of the End” is a thrilling adventure that follows a prophetic book written by a young schoolboy in the 1970s. Fast forward to the 1990s and 2010s, and a mysterious super-villain is using the book as his master-plan for world destruction. A police officer from the 2000s discovers the truth about the book and embarks on a journey to prevent the villain’s terrifying plan.
14. Snakes and Earrings (2008)
“Snakes and Earrings” (2008) is a dark and suspenseful thriller directed by Yukio Ninagawa and written by Hitomi Kanehara, Takuya Miyawaki, and Ninagawa himself. Set in Shibuya, Tokyo, the story revolves around a 19-year-old girl named Rui, who finds her life deeply disappointing until she falls in love with Ama. Their tumultuous relationship takes unexpected turns as they both become enveloped in a world of violence, passion, and unconventional desires.
15. 20th Century Boys 2: The Last Hope (2009)
“20th Century Boys 2: The Last Hope” is the gripping sequel to the critically acclaimed drama “20th Century Boys 1: Beginning of the End. “ Set in contemporary Japan, this extraordinary film follows a group of childhood friends who find themselves deep in battle against an ominous cult that threatens the world as they know it. With a heart-pounding runtime of 2 hours and 19 minutes, viewers are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions and awe, as the friends must band together to uncover the truth and save humanity.
16. 20th Century Boys 3: Redemption (2009)
In 2017, the world is under the rule of a resurrected Tomodachi, whose prophecies from The New Book have all come true. The 20th Century Boys series continues with its third installment, Redemption. The story follows a thrilling adventure as the characters uncover the true identity behind the mysterious Tomodachi.
17. A Ghost of a Chance (2011)
“A Ghost of a Chance, “ directed by Kôki Mitani, is an intriguing cocktail of comedy and crime. Set in Japan, it follows a not-so-stellar lawyer, played by Eri Fukatsu, who finds herself in dire need of an unusual weapon to strengthen her case. What she discovers is an unconventional witness that could change everything — a samurai ghost.
18. Oba: The Last Samurai (2011)
“Oba: The Last Samurai” is a captivating drama war film set during the final moments of World War 2, in 1944 and 1945. The story revolves around a group of Japanese soldiers who, despite the US forces capturing most of their island, steadfastly refuse to surrender and continue to resist even after the Emperor himself surrenders.
19. Persona Non Grata (2015)
Amidst the turbulent setting of World War II, Persona Non Grata, alternatively known as Sugihara Chiune, unravels an intriguing narrative about an ordinary man who showcases extraordinary courage. This film, meticulously directed by Cellin Gluck, unfolds the lesser-known story of a Japanese diplomat who courageously defied his nation’s laws, sheltering many thousands of Jewish refugees. Set amidst increasing opposition, the diplomat’s acts of defiance and altruism prove as engaging as they are tear-jerking.
