Top 5 Best Japanese Action Movies You Must Watch

Liputan6.com, Jakarta - Are you looking for the best Japanese action movies? Japan has long been known for its rich and diverse cinematic culture. From classic samurai epics to modern-day action thrillers, Japanese filmmakers have produced some of the most iconic and imaginative action movies in the industry. With a perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping sequences and captivating storytelling, these films offer a unique cinematic experience.

In this article, we've compiled a list of the top 10 best Japanese action movies to give you a taste of what this unique film culture has to offer.

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Shout! Factory TV, YouTube Free, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home 

"Seven Samurai" is a classic samurai film directed by Akira Kurosawa. Released in 1954, it still stands strong as one of the best and most influential Japanese action movies of all time. The story is set in 16th-century Japan and revolves around a group of villagers who are under constant threat from bandits. To protect their village, they hire a veteran samurai who then gathers other 6 samurais to help him.

The movie is known for its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and intense action sequences. "Seven Samurai" is often praised for its influence on the action genre and its impact on filmmaking worldwide.

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, Kanopy, Hoopla, Plex

"Battle Royale" is a Japanese film from the year 2000, directed by Kinji Fukasaku. The movie is set in a dystopian future where a group of high school students is forced to participate in a government program called the "Battle Royale." They are taken to a remote island, given weapons, and compelled to fight each other until only one student remains alive.

This movie is known for its controversial content, depicting teenagers in a brutal life-and-death competition. Despite the controversy, "Battle Royale" has become a cult classic known for its action-packed sequences.

Where to Watch: Netflix

"Rurouni Kenshin Part I: Origins" is the first film of the Rurouni Kenshin series. It's based on the popular manga and anime series "Rurouni Kenshin" by Nobuhiro Watsuki. This film follows the story of Kenshin Himura, a former legendary samurai and assassin who has vowed never to kill again after the war has ended. His vow is tested when he has to fight against Kanryuu Takeda and his henchmen.

"Rurouni Kenshin Part I: Origins" is well-received for its faithful adaptation of the manga and anime. It offers action-packed scenes, compelling characters, and a focus on Kenshin's personal and moral development.

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Criterion Channel, Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home

"Yojimbo" is another classic samurai film by Akira Kurosawa. It follows the story of a wandering ronin named Sanjuro who arrives in a town divided by two rival gangs. Sanjuro plays the gangs off each other, ultimately helping the villagers to overthrow them.

The film is famous for its iconic lead character, portrayed by Toshiro Mifune, and its skillful blend of action, humor, and drama.

Where to Watch: -

"Azumi" is a Japanese action film released in 2003, directed by Ryūhei Kitamura. It's based on a popular manga of the same name. The story centers on a young girl named Azumi, who is raised and trained as an assassin by a master samurai. She and a group of other young warriors are tasked with a dangerous mission to eliminate warlords and restore peace to the land.

The film is known for its high-energy martial arts sequences, and action-packed scenes as Azumi and her comrades face various challenges on their journey.