8thSin
From DramaWiki
I decided to use this page for Japanese movie and dorama review/rating to keep track of series I've seen and maybe guide newcomers to the wonderful(?) world of Japanese doramas and movies!
Only those series I've watched to the last episode will be rated. I am more into romance / drama genre (In other words, serious stuff, NOT anime/manga based fangirl stuff) in Japanese media, so I might be a bit biased, but I tried my best to be fair. Personally, I think doramas with meanings are worth more than just plain comedy anyway. Of course, everyone has different tastes, but I think this page will help you decide which show is worth seeing! Anything with ratings of 9 or 10 are bolded with color.
You should definitely check them out first!!
「僕の耳は、名場面を憶えている。」 is one of my favorite slogans, it was for Chrono Trigger OST. It roughly tranlates to "My ears remember the greatest moments." Of course, usually you would remember a great scenes with your eyes, but a great music accomodating it makes it that much more memorable. That's why I also included theme song ratings in my review.
My Fansubs
- Past, future projects, updates in FansubWiki http://fansub.d-addicts.com/User:8thSin
Dorama Reviews
Formats: Refer to DramaWiki Glossary of Terms for further details.
- CpE: Conclusion-per-episode format, each episode starts afresh with minimal influence from previous episodes.
"Ichi wa kanketsu keishiki" 一話完結形式
- R: Continuation dorama format, all the episodes combine to make one story.
Episodes often end with a cliffhanger. "Renzoku" 連続 「連ドラ」
- R-CpE: Continuous conclusion-per-episode. This is not an official category, but ones I consider to be between
CpE and Renzoku. Each episode carries the story from previous episodes, but is concluded at end of each episode.
- Mix: Only first couple of episodes are CpE then turns into Renzoku near the end.
" * " Currently watching, ratings may change.
| Title | Year | Genre | Format | Rating/10 | Theme Song | Song rating/10 Compatibility/10
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ガリレオ Galileo |
2007 | Detective/Comedy | CpE | 9* | KOH+ - KISS-shite | 7 - |
| 働きマン Hataraki Man |
2007 | Manga/Romance | CpE | 10* | UVERworld - Ukiyo CROSSING | 4 - |
| ドリーム☆アゲイン Dream Again |
2007 | Sports/Comedy | R | 6* | Kobukuro - Aoku Yasashiku | 7 - |
| SP | 2007 | Police | CpE? | - | - | - - |
| ハタチの恋人 Hatachi no Koibito |
2007 | Romance/Comedy | R-CpE? | 7* | Pipettes - Because it's not Love | 8 - |
| プロポーズ大作戦 Propose Daisakusen |
2007 | Romantic Fantasy | R-CpE | 9 | Kuwata Keisuke - Ashita Hareru Kana | 4 5 |
| セクシーボイスアンドロボ Sexy Voice and Robo |
2007 | Comedy/Suspense | CpE | 4 | Mitsuki - Hitotsudake | 7 8 |
| 特急田中３号 Tokkyuu Tanaka 3-Gou |
2007 | Comedy | R | 7 | KAT-TUN - Yorokobi no Uta | 3 9 |
| バンビーノ! Bambino! |
2007 | Drama | R | 4 | Arashi - We can make it! | 4 - |
| ライアーゲーム LIAR GAME |
2007 | Mystery | R | 4 | - | - - |
| ヒミツの花園 Himitsu no Hanazono |
2007 | Comedy | CpE | 5 | Amuro Namie - Baby Don't Cry | 9 9 |
| ハケンの品格 Haken no Hinkaku |
2007 | Comedy/Drama | R-CpE | 9 | Nakashima Mika - Mienai Hoshi | 9 9 |
| 花より男子２ Hana Yori Dango 2 |
2007 | Manga/Romance | R | 5 | ARASHI - Love so Sweet Utada Hikaru - Flavor of Love |
10 - 10 8 - 6 |
| 華麗なる一族 Karei naru Ichizoku |
2007 | Drama | R | 7 | - | - - |
| のだめカンタービレ Nodame Cantabile |
2006 | Manga/Comedy | R | 9 | Gershwin - Rhapsody in Blue | - 9 |
| だめんず・うぉ～か～ Damens Walker |
2006 | Manga/Comedy | CpE | 7 | Koda Kumi - Yume no Uta | 9 6 |
| １４才の母 14 Sai no Haha |
2006 | Drama | R | 2 | Mr.Children - Shirushi | 8 2 |
| セーラー服と機関銃 Sailor Fuku to Kikanju |
2006 | Suspense/Comedy | R-CpE | 2 | Hoshi Izumi - Sailor Fuku to Kikanjuu | 2 6 |
| たったひとつの恋 Tatta Hitotsu no Koi |
2006 | Romance | R | 4 | KAT-TUN - Bokura no Machi de | 4 5 |
| 結婚できない男 Kekkon Dekinai Otoko |
2006 | Comedy/Romance | CpE | 9 | Every Little Thing - Swimmy | 8 9 |
| ブスの瞳に恋してる Busu no Hitomi ni Koishiteru |
2006 | Comedy/Romance | R | 7 | Koda Kumi - Koi no Tsubomi | 10 9 |
| 西遊記 Saiyuuki |
2006 | Comedy/Adventure | CpE | 7 | MONKEY MAJIK - Around the World | 8 9 |
| 夜王 Yaoh |
2006 | Drama | CpE | 5 | TOKIO - Mr.Traveling Man | 5 7 |
| １リットルの涙 Ichi Ritoru no Namida |
2005 | Human Drama | R | 9 | K - Only Human | 10 10 |
| あいのうた Ai no Uta |
2005 | Romance/Drama | R-CpE | 9 | Tamaki Kouji - Present | 7 9 |
| 花より男子 Hana Yori Dango |
2005 | Manga/Romance | R | 4 | ARASHI - WISH | 8 7 |
| 野ブタ。をプロデュース Nobuta wo Produce |
2005 | Drama/Suspense | Mix | 9 | Shuuji to Akira - Seishun Amigo | 9 8 |
| 電車男 Densha Otoko |
2005 | Comedy/Romance | R-CpE | 6 | Sambo Master - Sekai wa sore wo ai to yobundaze | 2 5 |
| スローダンス Slow Dance |
2005 | Romance | R | 3 | Fukuyama Masaharu - TOKYO | 4 6 |
| ドラゴン桜 Dragon Zakura |
2005 | School | R-CpE | 8 | melody. - Realize | 8 9 |
| いま、会いにゆきます Ima Ai ni Yukimasu |
2005 | Romance | R | 5 | Orange Range - Kizuna | 7 7 |
| がんばっていきまっしょい！ Ganbatte Ikimasshoi |
2005 | Drama | R | 6 | Aiko - Kira Kira | 2 9 |
| 恋におちたら～僕の成功の秘密～ Koi ni Ochitara |
2005 | Drama | Mix | 9 | Crystal Kay - Koi ni Ochitara | 8 10 |
| エンジン Engine |
2005 | Drama | R-CpE | 5 | Aerosmith - Angel | 8 3 |
| 幸せになりたい！ Shiawase ni Naritai! |
2005 | Drama | R | 4 | SUGAR - Shiawase ni Naritai | 9 10 |
| アタック No.1 Attack No.1 |
2005 | Sports | R | 4 | Fukuda Saki - Attack No.1 2005 | 3 9 |
| 曲がり角の彼女 Magari Kado no Kanojyo |
2005 | Romance | R | 7 | Shela - Dear My Friends | 8 9 |
| ごくせん２ Gokusen 2 |
2005 | Manga/School/Comedy | CpE | 6 | D-51 - No More Cry | 9 10 |
| Ｈ２～君といた日々 H2 |
2005 | Manga/Sports | R | 7 | K - Over... | 8 10 |
| ラストクリスマス Last Christmas |
2004 | Romance | R | 5 | Oda Yuji with Butch Walker - Last Christmas | 5 8 |
| 君が想い出になる前に Kimi ga Omoide ni Naru Mae ni |
2004 | Drama | R | 4 | Amuro Namie - All for You | 8 8 |
| 世界の中心で、愛をさけぶ Sekai no Chuushin de, Ai wo Sakebu |
2004 | Junai | R | 10 | Shibasaki Kou - Katachi Aru Mono | 10 10+ |
| オレンジデイズ Orange Days |
2004 | Drama/School | R | 10+ | Mr.Children - Sign | 10 10 |
| プライド Pride |
2004 | Sports/Romance | R-CpE | 6 | Queen - Born to Love You | 5 2 |
| ビギナー Beginner |
2003 | Lawyer | CpE | 3 | The Carpenters - Top of the World | 9 4 |
| 元カレ Moto Kare |
2003 | Romance | R | 5 | Kinki Kids - Hakka Candy | 6 4 |
| グッドラック！！ Good Luck!! |
2003 | Drama/Romance | R | 10+ | Yamashita Tatsuro - Ride on Time | 7 9 |
| My Little Chef | 2002 | Drama | CpE | 5 | Hamasaki Ayumi - Voyage | 10 8 |
| 太陽の季節 Taiyou no Kisetsu |
2002 | Tragedy/Romance | R | 5 | Takizawa Hideaki - Ki.Se.Ki | 7 9 |
| ごくせん Gokusen |
2002 | Manga/School/Comedy | CpE | 7 | V6 - Feel Your Breeze | 6 8 |
| 空から降る一億の星 Sora Kara Furu Ichioku no Hoshi |
2002 | Drama/Suspense | R | 7 | Elvis Costello - Smile | 6 8 |
| スタアの恋 Star no Koi |
2001 | Romance/Comedy | R-CpE | 8 | Globe - Stop! In the Name of Love | 9 7 |
| HERO | 2001 | Lawyer | CpE | 10 | Utada Hikaru - Can You Keep a Secret? | 10 10 |
| やまとなでしこ Yamato Nadeshiko |
2000 | Romance/Comedy | R | 9 | MISIA - Everything | 5 2 |
| Summer Snow | 2000 | Romance | R | 4 | Kinki Kids - Natsu no Oosama | 8 10 |
| Food Fight | 2000 | Drama | CpE | 7 | SMAP - Lion Heart | 9 7 |
| 池袋ウエストゲートパーク IWGP |
2000 | Suspense/Comedy | R | 9 | SADS - Boukyaku no Sora | 7 9 |
| Beautiful Life | 2000 | Romance | R | 10+ | B'z - Konya Tsuki no Mieru Oka ni | 10 10 |
| 魔女の条件 Majo no Jouken |
1999 | Romance | R | 5 | Utada Hikaru - First Love | 10 8 |
| 神様、もう少しだけ Kamisama Mou Sukoshi Dake |
1998 | Romance/Tragedy | R | 6 | Luna Sea - I For You | 6 8 |
| GTO | 1998 | Manga/School/Comedy | CpE | 5 | Sorimachi Takashi - Poison | 4 5 |
| 君の手がささやいている Kimi No Te Ga Sasayaite Iru |
1997 | Human Drama | R-CpE | 10 | Stevie Wonder - I Just Called to Say I Love You | 8 5 |
| 青い鳥 Aoi Tori L'oiseau bleu |
1997 | Suspense/Romance | R | 10 | Globe - Wonderin' Destiny | 9 10+ |
| ラブジェネレーション Love Generation |
1997 | Romance | R | 8 | Outaki Eiichi - Shiawase na Ketsumatsu | 5 2 |
| バージンロード Virgin Road |
1997 | Romance | R | 9 | Amuro Namie - Can You Celebrate? | 10+ 10 |
| コーチ Coach |
1996 | Sports/Romance | R | 9 | Tamaki Kouji - Denen | 9 10 |
| ロングバケーション Long Vacation |
1996 | Romance | R | 10 | Kubota Toshinobu - La La La Love Song | 10 10 |
| 愛していると言ってくれ Aishiteiru to Ittekure |
1995 | Romance | R | 5 | Dream Come True - LOVE LOVE LOVE | 10 8 |
| 101回目のプロポーズ 101st Marriage Proposal |
1991 | Romance | R | 7 | Chage & Aska - Say Yes | 9 8 |
Japanese Movie Reviews
FSC - FantasticSuperClub.org (FSC) and FS Seeders (FSS) are THE places to get Japanese and other Asian movies. Registration available at limited time slots. Keep trying to register!
Latest additions:
- Azumi 2 (2005)
- Seance (2001)
- Azumi (2003) [HIGHLY RECOMMENDED]
- Mushishi (2007)
- Umoregi (2005)
| Title | Year | Genre | Rating /10 |
Comment | Theme Song | Song rating /10 Compatibility /10
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ゲゲゲの鬼太郎 Ge Ge Ge no Kitarou AKA: Kitaro |
2007 | Action/Manga | 6 | A stupid as hell movie, but still pretty enjoyable. I used to read Manga when I was little, and I have to admit I was a bit disappointed with CG, but the characters were pretty interesting. Acting and story were below par, but there are few touching scenes. Inoue Mao is pretty cute, but her acting is poor as usual, and nobody can escape the extreme cheesiness of this movie. Expect to see a kiddie Halloween party-ish movie.
|
Wentz Eiji - Awaking Emotion 8/5 | 5 8 |
| 蟲師 Mushishi AKA: Bugmaster |
2007 | Action/Manga | 4 | To sum it up in one word... Boring. This is one of those movies that could've been so much cooler, but ended up being really draggy. Odagiri Joe, a great actor, wasn't given enough chances to show his talents. Scenery is very beautiful in this movie, but so are hundreds of other ones.
|
- | - - |
| 大帝の剣 Taitei no Ken AKA: The Sword of Alexander |
2007 | Comedy | 5 | Samurais, ninjas, spaceships, aliens, zombies... Sounds weird, and it IS a weird movie. They were aiming for "so bad it's actually good", and somewhat succeeded. It's a hilarious movie that makes absolutely no sense with really crappy CG and weird villains. The biggest surprise is that well-known dorama actors like Abe Hiroshi and Hasegawa Kyouko are in this film.
|
Glay - Kodou | 8 7 |
| バッテリー The Battery |
2007 | Sports/Drama | 9 | A must see movie for all baseball lovers. "Battery" is a Japanese baseball lingo meaning the pitcher and the catcher. Being another sports movie, I was expecting it to be another cheese fest, but it turned out to be a very touching movie without getting too cheesy. Child actors were fantastic, and extremely well-written story (I guess it's because this movie is bsaed on a novel...). Importance of friendship and what it means to play baseball is portrayed in this film.
|
Kumaki Anri - Haru no Kaze | 7 8 |
| バブルへGO!! タイムマシンはドラム式 Bubble Fiction: Boom or Bust |
2007 | Comedy | 7 | A girl travels to year 1990 to find her mother, the inventor of the "Laundry Machine-Type Time Machine" to stop the "Burst of Bubble Era". It's a really fun movie, well written plots. I was very surprised this movie wasn't as cheesy as it sounded. I wasn't a fan of Hirosue Ryouko's acting, but she was pretty good in this and fit for the role. Abe Hiroshi delivers great acting as usual.
|
Katou Miriya - Eyes on You | 5 5 |
| Dear Friends | 2007 | Drama | 3 | Another one of those 'battling a disease' movie... Not very impressed. The acting in general was absolutely disastrous, typical story and characters, average story.
|
- | - - |
| 僕は妹に恋をする Boku wa Imouto ni Koisuru AKA: My Sister, My Love |
2007 | Drama | 8 | There is an old Japanese saying: 「終わり良ければ全て良し」"As long as the ending is good, it's all good"... They were talking about this movie.
This movie is about a pair of twins who loves each other finally starts acting on it. The first 1:30 of this movie was incredibly slow. Of course, this is very typical of many Japanese films, but it was extremely difficult to watch because all the characters seemed emotionless and it felt as if they were reading lines off a big board behind the camera. I was about to give this film a mediocre rating like 3/10 at this point, then the last scene started... The long shot starting with rock/paper/scissors in the last scene is probably the most amazing shot I've ever seen in Japanese movie or drama so far. All the monotonous dialogs, long silences, emotionless acting were buildups for this very last scene, where the emotion finally erupts. I've never been a believer in Matsumoto Jun's acting skills, but I've been proven wrong in the very last 10 minutes. The ending was very deep, [SPOILER]as the two main characters, without words exchanged, realize their relationship will never reach anywhere, and 10 the last steps were taken, lass kiss was exchanged.[/SPOILER] Although some of the character's actions didn't make sense early in the movie, I enjoyed it a lot thanks to the great ending and the cuteness of Eikura Nana. Recommended for patient MatsuJun or Eikura Nana fans. |
Crystal Kay - Kitto Eien ni | 8 9 |
| どろろ Dororo |
2007 | Manga/Action | 9 | Based on a manga by Tezuka Osamu, Dororo is about a man's quest to get back 48 parts of his body sold to Demons before birth. Once said to be impossible to be made into a live action, is made possible by heavy use of CG. Unfortunately, the CG was very disappointing for me as it seemed extremely cartoonish, but cool action sequences directed by Ching Siu-tung totally made up for it. Tsumabuki Satoshi, Shibasaki Kou, and Eita reunite from Orange Days for this action film. Their performances were flawless, and the action is very cool, with some memorable scenes. The story is very well written though not very deep. It's one of those action films that you watch and enjoy, but shouldn't expect anything deeper.
|
Mr. Children - Fake | 8 9 |
| ハミングライフ Humming Life |
2007 | Drama | 7 | A story about two young adults exchanging letters in a park. A Japanese version of "You've got mail". Virtually unknown director, unknown actors, lack of profile in IMDB... I wasn't expecting anything from this 1 hour long movie, but it turned out to be surprisingly good. The music is great, every single scene looks so beautiful, and fairly well directed. The story is somewhat ordinary, but told in an unconventional way. Overall, a fun movie.
|
GOING UNDER GROUND - Humming Life | 9 10 |
| 大奥 Ooku |
2006 | Jidaigeki | 5 | This film is one of the big budget Jidaigeki films in recent years. The story was somewhat interesting, and cinematography was great, but I couldn't help but feel something was lacking in the acting. Especially Nakama Yukie, who seemed very tense as usual.
|
Koda Kumi - Unmei | 9 9 |
| NANA 2 | 2006 | Manga/Romance | 3 | This sequel to NANA is such a disappointment. The new cast is very weak compared to the first movie. Ichikawa Yui didn't have the energy and cuteness of Miyazaki Aoi, and her acting was by far inferior in comparison. Hongou Kanata also seemed really out of place when he was with other band members. The story wasn't that impressive either. The only improvement was Nakashima Mika's theme song.
|
Nakashima Mika - Hitoiro | 7 9 |
| 7月24日通りのクリスマス Christmas on July 24th Avenue |
2006 | Romantic Comedy | 6 | A romantic comedy from the creators of Densha Otoko, this is an enjoyable movie. Acting is fantastic with Nagatani Miki and Oosawa Takao, along with many recognizable faces from doramas. The script and setting is great, and it has a unique style (for Jmovies). Although it reminds of Korean romantic comedies a little at times...
Like every Christmas movie and most romantic comedies, it's really cheesy at times, but a nice light film. |
K - First Christmas | 7 9 |
| ただ、君を愛してる Tada, Kimi wo Aishiteru AKA: Heavenly Forest |
2006 | Junai | 10+ | Based on a novel written by the same author as Ima, Ai ni Yukimasu, inspired by the film Renai Shashin. Miyazaki Aoi plays an 'underdeveloped' and strange girl falling in love with Tamaki Hiroshi's character in a university. This movie features very beautiful nature of Japan, excellent cinematography, and very touching story. Overall a BEAUTIFUL film. Acting was SUPERB! Miyazaki Aoi's character is very memorable, and one of the scenes with Tamaki made me cry. Great twist in the ending as well. It's one of those movies that really connects with you, especially if you ever experienced a lost love. The music for this movie is also incredibly good, matches perfectly with each scene, which gives the story a nice flow and makes them twice as emotional.
WATCH THIS MOVIE!! |
Ootsuka Ai - Renai Shashin | 9 10 |
| 地下鉄に乗って Metro ni Notte AKA: Riding the Metro |
2006 | Mystery/Drama | 8 | You can say that this film is the ALWAYS Sanchoume of 2006. Also starring Tsunami Shinichi. A man travels back in time while riding the Metro. The story is not as touching as ALWAYS, but it has many twists and the impressive acting by all the stars in this movie is just fun to watch. This movie shows us the importance of family.
|
Salyu - Platform | 8 10 |
| 後編『デスノート the Last name』 Death Note: The Last Name AKA: Death Note vol.2 |
2006 | Suspense/Fantasy | 9 | The cat and mouse game escalates in the second half of Death Note. There is far more action, more complicated plots, and more deceptions and twists compared to the fist movie. Toda Erika is VERY hot in this movie and puts up a great performance. This is the best manga based live-action movie or dorama I have seen to date.
|
Red Hot Chili Peppers - Snow | 8 3 |
| 涙そうそう Nada Sou Sou AKA Tears for You |
2006 | Drama | 8 | This movie is inspired by the Natsukawa Rimi song "Nada Sou Sou" written by Moriyama Ryouko, composed by BEGIN, sang by all three of them. It's been sang in multiple Kouhaku Utagassen, and now known as THE Okinawan song.
I must say, this movie could've had a better story, but it's still pretty interesting. I guess there are limitations to the story because they have to follow the lyrics. Tsumabuki and Nagasawa's acting were incredible as usual. I will definitely continue following their careers. Their chemistry in this film was just wonderful, and they really showed the comfort of just living in the countryside. Yes, I cried during the ending credit, when the song started playing. One of those love it or hate it movie. |
Natsukawa Rimi - Nada Sou Sou | 10+ 10 |
| フラガール Hula Girls |
2006 | Drama | 9 | This is one of those movies that I would've never even imagined I would like that much, but ended up totally surprising me. Dance in past setting is about as far as it gets from my typical preferences, but it was surprisingly touching, and acting was fantastic! The characters developed nicely, and it drew my attention to the very end. Matsuyuki Yasuko was still so very hot, and her acting was great as usual. Japan Academy Awards grand prize winner impresses me once again. I cried in this movie, not because it was sad, but because it was one of the most inspirational and touching movie I have ever seen. Great OST as well, very rewatchable film.
|
- | - - |
| 夜のピクニック Yoru no Picnic AKA: Night Time Picnic |
2006 | Drama/School | 10+ | This is the best Japanese movie I have ever seen. A truly touching story of a High School's annual "walk festival", where a band of friends spend their last moments of High School life together in a day and night long 80km walk. Based on a novel of same name, the winner of "Bookstore employee's choice award". Roughly based on a real life annual 70km event of a high school the author attended. Very interesting main and side characters, all develop very nicely in this film. It shows the importance of friendship and how simple things can bring happiness. Nostalgia-inducing film that has the feel of a Japanese film, mastery in story telling.
|
Monkey Magik - FUTARI | 8 7 |
| シュガー＆スパイス ～風味絶佳～ Sugar & Spice: Fuumi Zekka |
2006 | Romance | 4 | The only thing this movie has to offer is Sawajiri Erika. Although there are some fun and touching scenes, very poorly written story overall. Just another typical Japanese romance movie.
|
Oasis - Layla | 7 5 |
| アキハバラ@DEEP Akihabara@Deep |
2006 | Action | 6 | This is certainly a unique movie. The acting by Narimiya and Oshinari were very good, and some cool action scenes by Yamada Yuu as well. The story is a bit predictable, but overall, a fun movie. Recommended for Densha Otoko lovers.
|
AAA - Let it beat! | 7 8 |
| スケバン刑事 コードネーム =麻宮サキ Sukeban Deka AKA: Yoyo Girl Cop: Code Name = Asamiya Saki |
2006 | Action | 3 | This is probably one of cheesiest movie ever made. Characters are such cliches, and the story, the yoyo weapon, the whole movie makes no sense. The only thing that saved this movie from absolute disaster was the action, which was kind of cool.
|
GAM - Thanks! | 4 5 |
| バックダンサーズ! Backdancers! |
2006 | Dance | 7 | Another dance movie, but a lot less cheesier compared to Hollywood dance films like Step Up and You Got Served. I was very surprised to see Hirayama Aya and Saeko dance at such high level (although Saeko's performance was a bit poor compared to rest). Very good to see Hiro from SPEED in action again. The only thing this movie was really lacking was a "decisive battle" with a special routine like most dance movies.
|
Hiro - Itsuka Futaride | 8 7 |
| ラフ Rough Rough |
2006 | Sports | 4 | Another sports film, inevitably cheesy ending... The film was actually quite interesting up to the middle, but ending was very predictable and undramatic. Not one of better Nagasawa Masami movies. Her character really reminded me of Aki in Sekai no Chuushin though.
|
SukimaSwitch - Zenryoku Shounen | 9 9 |
| UDON UDON |
2006 | Comedy | 9 | Wow... They actually made a movie about Udon. I'm still having a hard time believing it... The movie was hilarous, Yuusuke Santa-Maria impressed me once again. No one can mix comedy and drama as well as him! GODLY script. One of the most original JMovie I've ever seen, a movie that makes you laugh one minute and cry the next. The only bad thing about this movie: It made me hungry, and I can't find any Udon restaurant near me.
|
- | - - |
| 青春☆金属バット Green Mind, Metal Bats |
2006 | Action/Drama | 7 | Pretty messed up movie, but the story is very unique and violent. The main character basically beats the crap out of people and steal their money because he's horny and wants to keep XXXXing an alcoholic but sexy woman. It's refreshing to watch different kind of movie every once a while though.
|
Yakozen - Naraba, Tomoyo! | 5 9 |
| ゆれる Yureru |
2006 | Drama | 7 | A very slow paced movie. I was a bit disappointed at beginning, but it drew me deeper and deeper into the story, and Odagiri Joe's acting was simply amazing. This movie is quite touching, and it's highly recommended if you like drama type movies and the can stand the slowness/subtleness of traditional Japanese movies.
|
Cauliflowers - Uchi ni Kaerou | 4 8 |
| 日本沈没 Nihon Chinbotsu AKA: Japan Sinks |
2006 | Action | 5 | Star-studded movie, however, acting was so-so at best, and very cheesy. It has the best CG I've ever seen in a Japanese movie though. Unfortunately, this movie is no match for similar Hollywood disaster movies like Armageddon, Day After Tomorrow, or Independence Day.
|
SunMin thanX Kubota - Keep Holding U | 9 10 |
| 前編『デスノート』 Death Note AKA: Death Note vol.1 |
2006 | Suspense/Fantasy | 7 | *Note: I have never read the manga series*
I loved Battle Royale, so I was excited to see another horror manga movie starring Fujiwara Tatsuya. This movie did not disappoint. The concept of the Death Note was very cool, and the cat and mouse chase between the main character and L and the authorities was very exciting. Looking forward to the second half. The only thing I didn't like was the theme song. English songs never match Japanese movies or dramas. |
Red Hot Chili Peppers - Dani California | 6 1 |
| Death Trance DEATH TRANCE |
2006 | Action/Fantasy | 3 | This movie is like a really crappy remake of SHINOBI and VERSUS. The director is the same person, but this one is a piece of crap. The story is very poorly written, and too many things didn't make sense even when the movie ended. It is also far too artistic for an action movie. Not recommended.
|
Dir en grey - CLEVER SLEAZOID | 5 8 |
| 笑う大天使（マイケル） Warau Michael |
2006 | Comedy | 2 | The acting, story, and computer graphics are so bad, it's actually good...
... |
Tsuji Ayano - Soba ni Irukara | 7 6 |
| 愛と死をみつめて(Dorama SP) Ai to Shi wo Mitsumete |
2006 | Junai | 6 | The original novel, a collection of letters sent by the main character, is considered the predecessor to the "TBS Junai (Pure Love) Trilogy" novels. This dorama SP does not disappoint. This SP is mainly about long distance relationship between two high school students who meet in a hospital during the '60s. Kusanagi's acting skill sure have improved and it shows in this show. It's my first time seeing Hirosue Ryouko in a weak(illness) character role, but she did it very convincingly. Should check it out, if you like romantic series.
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Dream Come True - Memai | 8 9 |
| タイヨウのうた Taiyou no Uta |
2006 | Junai | 6 | The last and possibly weakest of TBS Pure Love Trilogy (TBS Summer Junai Trilogy) films, but thanks to this movie, I can tolerate YUI's music now. The actors did a very good job, and the movie is beautifully directed.Somewhat weak ending, and movie is probably too short for this story to be told properly.
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YUI - Good-bye Days | 8 8 |
| 間宮兄弟 Mamiya Kyoudai |
2006 | Comedy/Drama | 2 | I know they are trying to show the love between the two brothers, but beyond that, the movie makes no sense. Girls are cute though! 意味不明の映画です。 |
RIP SLYME - Hey, Brother | 5 3 |
| 県庁の星 Kenchou no Hoshi AKA: The Star of Prefecture Government |
2006 | Drama | 3 | This is the first show with Shibasaki Kou in cast that I really can't give a rave review. Her chemistry with Oda Yuuji was horrible, acting from both leads were unconvincing, and boring story.
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| 好きだ、 Su-ki-da |
2006 | Drama | 4 | This movie is VERY slow paced with minimum dialogues. I know that's typical characteristics of traditional Japanese movie, but there's a limit... Also, it's very dark, and there were many scenes where I could barely see. I'm sure this is one of those films that gets really praised in film festivals and film schools, but I just don't get what they are trying to say with this story, and the style of this movie just doesn't appeal to me.
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| THE 有頂天ホテル THE Uchouten Hotel |
2006 | Drama | 1 | Worst/most overrated movie ever. Boring to death. Avoid at all costs.
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| 天使 Tenshi |
2006 | Drama | 5 | This movie was a big surprise for me. It actually bored me to death in the first half and I almost stopped watching, but it started to get more and more interesting as the characters started to develop. The script and story was awesome near the end. I am very disappointed by Fukada Kyouko though... Her performance has been very poor recently.
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Ootake Yuki - Tenshi ga Maiorite Kuru Hi | 8 10 |
| ホールドアップダウン Hold Up Down |
2006 | Comedy | 7 | Whoever wrote the script for this movie is on crack. But it's amazingly funny for a Japanese film. This movie has "Scary Movie" feel to it. Must watch for V6 fans.
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V6 - Orange | 6 5 |
| 大停電の夜に Daiteiden no yoru ni |
2005 | Drama | 6 | Massive blackout hits Tokyo on Christmas eve. Blackout brings some people together, they have another look at their life, and their lives are changed in the end. Nice relaxing film to watch, but a bit too average to praise or criticize anything in particular.
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| ALWAYS 三丁目の夕日 ALWAYS Sanchoume no Yuuhi AKA: Always - Sunset on Third Street |
2005 | Drama | 9 | This movie is loaded with big name stars. Very touching movie. Maybe made for a bit older audience than me though. Depicts life in the post-war era, and how it felt fun (and the sunset was more beautiful) even though they had no money or technology. If you used to be poor (and now doing better) this movie will definitely induce nostalgia. This film absolutely deserves the 29th Japan Academy Award grand prize.
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D-51 - ALWAYS | 9 9 |
| SHINOBI -Heart Under Blade- SHINOBI |
2005 | Action/Romance | 7 | This movie reminded me a little bit of X-men. Short battle scenes, but that's what makes the movie more realistic. Pretty good story and unpredictable ending. However, acting skills in this movie is a suspect.
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Hamasaki Ayumi - HEAVEN | 10+ 10 |
| NANA -ナナ- NANA |
2005 | Comedy/Romance | 9 | I wasn't expecting this movie to be this good since it's based on anime, but it ended up pretty touching. The characters definitely have anime characteristics, but cute. This movie will turn me into a Miyazaki Aoi fan. Itou Yuna's song was amazing for that scene.
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Nakashima Mika - GLAMOROUS SKY | 6 8 |
HINOKIO |
2005 | SF/Drama | 7 | Hinokio is an advanced version of Asimo, a robot remotely controlled by a boy in rehab. CG for the robot in this movie is simple yet very effective/realistic. The story is interesting and touching, although a little predictable at times and the "virtual world" is a bit cheesy. Very high level acting from main cast consisting mostly of kids (including Horikita Maki in a girlish role for once). This movie is extremely well-directed for this genre. One of the best Japanese semi-kiddie movies I've seen so far.
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YUI - Tomorrow's Way | 9 10 |
| 電車男 Densha Otoko |
2005 | Romance | 6 | The movie was so much better than the dorama. It summarizes the story very well, and casting/acting makes it a much more believable story.
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ORANGE RANGE - Love Parade | 7 4 |
| 埋もれ木 Umoregi |
2005 | Fantasy | 2 | This is the most incomprehensible movie I have ever seen in my life. I've always had trouble fully understanding film festival movies (true, some are not meant to be understood and movies that leaves you thinking are more interesting), but NEVER have I been left absolutely clueless by end of a film. The entire movie is made of many bits of random events that had zero coherence. In fact, if not for the title "Umoregi" (buried tree), I wouldn't even have known which one was the main storyline.
I read a lot of positive reviews from film critics about this film, and I was deeply disappointed. I personally think it's wrong to praise a film just because the director is famous and you're too afraid to admit you didn't understand the movie. |
- | - - |
| Linda Linda Linda Linda Linda Linda |
2005 | Music/School | 8 | This is one of the must-see Japanese movies. With heavy use of Japanese subtlety, this movie depicts the struggles high school student face every day. Great acting all around, especially by the Korean lead actress.
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THE BLUE HEARTS - Owaranai Uta | 8 9 |
| 1リットルの涙 Ichi Rittoru no Namida |
2005 | Tragedy | 5 | The leading actress did a very good job of portraying the illness. She's not as pretty as Sawajiri, but I believe she's a better actress. I've heard this movie was actually filmed where the real Aya used to live, so I guess it's more realstic than the dorama. The movie had a nice flow, but the ending was VERY abrupt and not very satisfying.
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Katou Ikuko - Sora e | 5 8 |
| あずみ 2 - Death or Love - Azumi 2: Death or Love |
2005 | Action | 7 | The second movie is a big disappointment over the first movie, but still a good movie by itself. Once again packed with action, but the story is not as interesting, and the whole movie felt as if it ended really fast without much happening. The villains weren't as memorable as the first one despite the fact that it's a sequel, which should have a much larger budget.
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| 冬の運動会(Dorama SP) Fuyu no Undoukai |
2005 | Drama | 7 | Very touching dorama SP, about a man who just finished school, and trying to find his path.
|
Makihara Noriyuki - ANSWER | 6 8 |
| いま、会いにゆきます Ima, Ai ni Yukimasu AKA: Be With You |
2004 | Junai/Fantasy | 10 | This is the best movie I have ever seen, and the best movie in TBS Pure Love Trilogy IMO. The acting was great and music is unforgettable! Tiny pieces of mysteries were placed throughout the movie, but everything comes together perfectly in the end. SEE THIS MOVIE! |
ORANGE RANGE - Hana | 9 10+ |
| 69 -Sixty Nine- 69 |
2004 | Comedy/Drama | 8 | Set in year 1969, this movie is actually quite similar to Hollywood teen movies. Horny teens, vandalism, big dreams. It's kind of deep though, a fun movie to watch with many interesting twists. Fairly well-directed with good camera work. Kagoshima-ben is kind of annoying to me... It took me a while to get used to it.
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| 下妻物語 Shimotsuma Monogatari AKA: Kamikaze Girls |
2004 | Comedy | 7 | Not at all the type of movies I usually watch, but it was absolutely hilarious! Tsuchiya Anna was SOO cool! The story is very unique, and did I say it's ABSOLUTELY HILARIOUS already? Fuka-kyon acting like a badass in the end was a huge turn off though... Totally unconvincing acting.
|
Tommy heavenly6 - Hey my friend | 7 8 |
| 世界の中心で、愛をさけぶ Sekai no Chuushin de, Ai wo Sakebu |
2004 | Junai | 7 | The first of TBS Pure Love Trilogy, this movie stars far superior actors and actress than the dorama, but the time constraints hurt this movie. The music was also extremely weak but the story is better than dorama, and the ending was better. Watching the 'present day' Saku was really touching, but unlike the dorama it's not that sad when they were young. Not even close to making me cry. |
Hirai Ken - Hitomi wo Tojite | 8 9 |
| CASSHERN CASSHERN |
2004 | Action | 5 | This movie is among the most disappointing movies I have ever seen. The trailer for this movie was SO awesome, with cool action... But the story itself was too dark, unfitting for an action movie, and the background CG was horrible. Very poorly directed movie.
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Utada Hikaru - Dareka no Negai ga Kanau Koro | 7 3 |
| 座頭市 -Zatoichi- Zatouichi |
2003 | Jidaigeki | 6 | Beat Takeshi was great as Ichi. His acting was totally convincible as the blind samurai in the film. The story has a nice flow and is action packed. You should check this out if you are into Jidaigeki or gory sword battles.
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| バトル・ロワイアルII 【鎮魂歌】 Battle Royale II: Requiem |
2003 | Horror/Action | 3 | This movie is terrible. Too much typical adult hatred by youth, and it just didn't have as much impact or as good actors compared to the original movie. However, there's more action in this movie.
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STANCE PUNKS - Mayonaka Shounen Totsugekitai | 5 7 |
| あずみ Azumi |
2003 | Action | 10 | This is the best Japanese action film I have seen to date. I am not a fan of Ueto Aya, but her acting wasn't that bad in this, and the list of supporting actors are incredible. Almost every single allies and villains were already well-known or became well-known in the following 5 years. Even Odagiri Joe shows up as the ultimate villain. The movie is filled with action, probably more than 500 people died from swords. A movie that keeps you interested from beginning to the end. Highly recommended.
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Dolls |
2002 | Drama | 10 | Another one of those film festival type film... But one I actually enjoyed a lot. Written and directed by Beat Takeshi, Dolls is about three separate stories of unsuccessful love. There were many beautiful, vivid sceneries, great film music scores, and above all, outstanding acting from Kanno Miho. This is a very deep movie with heavy use of symbolism, it really drew me in to the story. I didn't fully understand everything in this film yet, but I would definitely watch again. I consider this piece to be a masterpiece.
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| ピンポン Ping Pong |
2002 | Sports/Drama | 10 | Enter the hero!
Absolutely INCREDIBLE film. This movie is by far the best sports movie I have ever seen (and possibly ever will). Wonderful story filled with comedy and drama, awesome ping pong scenes... This movie is flawless. Exceptionally well directed, excellent acting from Kubozuka Yousuke (IWGP, GO!) and Arata, as well as countless memorable scenes and quotes. Loaded with recognizable faces from Jdrama. |
Supercar - YUMEGIWA LAST BOY | 6 7 |
| VERSUS -ヴァーサス- VERSUS |
2002 | Action/Horror | 9 | It started just like every other action movie, but WOW! Great fights, good story with twists, and this movie has absolutely EVERYTHING you want from a horror action flick. Zombies, gun fights, sword fights, fist fights, super powers... The cinematography is great and the background music was absolutely wonderful. This must be the greatest independent film I've ever seen. If you like zombie movies, I guarantee you will like this movie.
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| Go Go |
2001 | Drama | 9 | Movie starring Kubozuka Yousuke ('King' of IWGP) and Shibasaki Kou. Winner of 41 movie awards, this movie deals with racism in Japan. Extremely well-acted, great directing, camera work, and Shibasaki Kou is H.O.T! Cool yet touching movie.
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| 殺し屋１ Ichi the Killer |
2001 | Crime | 8 | At last, I got to watch this famous yakuza film. Some torture/rape scenes/murder scenes were somewhat disturbing, but I enjoyed the movie a lot. I think this film has the best villain in Japanese films I've seen so far. If you liked Kill Bill, you'll like Ichi the Killer.
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Sugashikao - Kokoniirukoto | 6 3 |
| 降霊 Seance |
2001 | Horror | 7 | This is a horror movie I liked a lot. Rather than the traditional horror based on violence and blood, this movie is mostly about creeping guilt of a murder. Acting was extremely good for a horror movie, and it kept me interested throughout the movie. Although this is a horror movie, and it wasn't intended to be, it was quite funny. Things go so wrong for the main couple, and they beat the crap out of a ghost with a stick.
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| ココニイルコト Kokoniirukoto |
2001 | Romance/Drama | 6 | A bit slow paced, but enjoyable... Depicts a career woman's search for her purpose in life after her affair with the CEO has ended. The lead actress Manaka Hitomi is cute.
|
Sugashikao - Kokoniirukoto | 6 3 |
| バトル・ロワイアル Battle Royale |
2000 | Horror/Action | 10 | This movie is truly a horror. I have never seen anything like it at the time I saw this movie, and it's one of most memorable movie I've seen. This is also where Shibasaki Kou appeared on screen for the very first time and I've been her fan ever since I saw her in this film. |
Dragon Ash - Shizukana Hibi no Kaidan wo | 4 2 |
| GTO | 1999 | School/Comedy | 5 | This movie is better than the dorama series, but still way overrated.
|
Sorimachi Takashi - Poison | 4 5 |
| オーディション Audition |
1999 | Horror | 2 | This movie had many positive reviews on IMDB and film critic reviews so I was really excited to see it, but I was very disappointed by the end of the movie. I guess it's another one of those film festival works too 'artistic' for me to comprehend. The movie started out VERY slowly, and the horror part didn't start until only 20 minutes left in the movie. When it did start... Well, I like gory actions movies like VERSUS or Kill Bill, but let's just say it was just too disturbing for my tastes. Those who likes mystery and torture may like this film though...
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Hana-bi |
1997 | Crime | 3 | Watched this film after Dolls (2002), so I had really high expectations for this one (had equally high rating in IMDB, incredible numbers of film awards...), but I was very disappointed with this film. It follows the usual slowness of true Japanese film, but I had absolutely no idea what Beat Takeshi was trying to say in this movie. There were couple of nice scenes, but otherwise, nothing much happened. It felt like a crappy version of Brother (2000) to me. But don't take my words for it, see it for yourself. This is one of those festival type movies I did not get.
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Animated JMovie Reviews
| Title | Year | Genre | Rating /10 |
Comment | Theme Song | Song rating /10 Compatibility /10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 秒速５センチメートル -A chain of short stories about their distance- Byousoku 5 Senchimeetoru AKA: 5 centimeters per second, 5cm/s, Byousoku 5 Centimeters |
2007 | Seishun | 10+ | I watched this movie three times... And I cried three times. This movie replaces Toki wo Kakeru Shoujo and Sprited Away as my favorite anime movie ever. One of the reason it touched me so much... May be because I had a similar experience in the past, and still hasn't gotten over it yet. It felt like watching my own life, heavily dramatized.
The movie follows the life of a boy from elementary school to adulthood in three different events in his life (each one a short segment: Oukashou, Cosmonaut, and Byousoku 5 Centimeters.) with numerous flashbacks. A story about the boy's struggle with his adolescent love, who keeps getting farther away as their families move. Animation/visual effects are simply stunning. It is hard to believe so many memorable scenes were packed into this 1 hour film. The voice actors/actresses were extremely talented, their emotions expressed exceptionally well, and voice changing slightly as their characters grow up. The contents of the boy's narration was very touching as well. Audio/visuals were the best I've ever heard/seen in anime, with a very touching story. This film is a masterpiece. |
Yamazaki Masayoshi - One more time, One more chance | 8 10 |
| パプリカ Paprika |
2006 | Studio Madhouse | 4 | Another one of those movies internationally acclaimed by film critics, but was too artistic for me to comprehend. The animation and overall presentation was quite good, but the story itself made absolutely no sense to me. Another thing that bothered me was how this film seemed to copy many elements from other Ghibli and Madhouse anime movies. First few scenes in the movie was exactly same as Millennium Actress, and the villains seemed as if they came straight out of Howl's Moving Castle and Princess Mononoke, with parade scenes from Spirited Away (3 of these 4 are Ghibli films, looks like blatant plagiarism to me). This is a film I can't recommend to casual anime viewers.
|
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| ゲド戦記 Tales from Earthsea |
2006 | Studio Ghibli | 1 | Absolutely worthless movie. Another Ghibli movie based on a Western novel without Miyazaki Hayao's input in story. This movie was even worse than Howl's Moving Castle... I can see why Ursula Le Guin didn't approve of this movie. Characters were uninspiring, voice actors unenthusiastic, poor creativity in character design. Maybe it makes more sense if I read the original novels, but it left me absolutely clueless after seeing this movie. There were also many elements that seemed to be recycled from previous Ghibli movies, I was particularly disappointed at the fact that they used the black goo thing from Mononoke Hime once again. It was also really cheesy with so many stupid lines throughout the movie, something not even Howl's Moving Castle managed to do. The quality of drawings were not up to par with other Ghibli movies either.
|
Teshima Aoi - Toki no Uta | 1 1 |
| 時をかける少女 Toki wo Kakeru Shoujo AKA: The Girl Who Leapt Through Time |
2006 | Studio Madhouse | 10 | Well-deserved winner of Best Animated Film at Japan Academy Awards '07, Toki wo Kakeru Shoujo is one of the best anime movie I have seen to date. Exceptionally well directed, great music, and interesting story. Every single scene in this movie serves a purpose, and it kept me excited the whole time. This is a life-altering movie that teaches the importance of time and that we have to live the moment.
The insert song is possibly the best theme song ever used in a movie; the feel of it and lyric was absolutely perfect for this movie, accompanied by a series of great memorable scenes. This is a movie that even non-anime lovers will enjoy. |
Oku Hanako - Kawaranai Mono (INSERT SONG) Oku Hanako - Garnet |
10 10+ 8 7 |
| 劇場版 NARUTO -ナルト- 大興奮!みかづき島のアニマル騒動だってばよ Naruto the Movie 3: The Animal Riot of Crescent Moon Island |
2006 | Action | 7 | I was glad the Naruto movie series didn't wind up like Inu Yasha. The third movie was a huge improvement over the second movie. Although the villains reminded me a lot from the first movie, there were some great actions, and many touching scenes. They overplayed the promise between friends a little bit, but a solid movie for Naruto fans.
|
MARIA - Tsubomi | 5 6 |
| 劇場版 NARUTO -ナルト- 大激突!幻の地底遺跡だってばよ Naruto the Movie 2: Great Clash! The Illusionary Ruins at the Depths of the Earth |
2005 | Action | 5 | This movie turned out to be very cheesy. It wasn't as good movie as the first one. However, there are a lot more action, and it kind of keeps you in the edge of your seat. It was a really bad idea using Western-looking characters in this movie. It loses the whole ninja feel of Naruto series.
|
TUBE - Ding! Dong! Dang! | 7 3 |
| 劇場版 NARUTO -ナルト- 大活劇!雪姫忍法帖だってばよ!! Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow AKA: Naruto the Movie 1 |
2004 | Action | 7 | A highly enjoyable film for Naruto fans. Great action, interesting and sometimes touching story, and awesome graphics!
|
YUKI - Home Sweet Home | 9 8 |
| ハウルの動く城 Howl's Moving Castle |
2004 | Studio Ghibli | 5 | This is possibly the most overrated movie I have ever seen. Fantasy is a vital part of anime movies, but it's just rubbish if EVERYTHING makes no sense. I was expecting something more from Studio Ghibli, but I was very disappointed. Western novels should not be adopted into anime movies. However, I can't deny that this movie is very artistic, and very well-drawn, especially the castle itself.
|
Tanikawa Shuntarou - Sekai no Yakusoku | 6 8 |
| 映画 犬夜叉 紅蓮の蓬莱島 Inuyasha the Movie 4: Fire on the Mystic Island |
2004 | Action/Adventure | 5 | The last Inu Yasha movie was a total disappointment. The producers obviously ran out of ideas, and this movie was extremely cheesy.
|
Do As Infinity - Rakuen | 9 6 |
| 映画 犬夜叉 天下覇道の剣 Inuyasha the Movie 3: Swords of an Honorable Ruler |
2003 | Action/Adventure | 7 | Sesshoumaru finally fights in the third installment of Inu Yasha movie series. The brothers reunite to fight against evil.
|
Amuro Namie - Four Seasons | 9 7 |
| 映画 犬夜叉 鏡の中の夢幻城 Inuyasha the Movie 2: The Castle Beyond the Looking Glass |
2002 | Action/Adventure | 9 | The second one is even better than the first one, it incorporates real works of literature and legends into the Inu Yasha story. The villains were also very interesting.
|
Every Little Thing - Yura Yura | 10 9 |
| 映画 犬夜叉 時代を越える想い Inuyasha: The Love That Transcends Time |
2001 | Action/Adventure | 7 | The first one is a very good movie adaptation of Inu Yasha. It's quite interesting to see Kagome and Inu Yasha unite again, and the story was as well written as the anime series. Ending theme is my favorite song by Ayu, perfect lyric for this movie.
|
Hamasaki Ayumi - No More Words | 10 10 |
| 千年女優 Millennium Actress |
2001 | Studio Madhouse | 8 | An extremely artistic animated film that has won many awards domestically and world-wide despite close release date to Spirited Away. It's a solid movie with a great sequence near the very end. However, it took me a while to get used to its rapid transition from reality to movie within movie, and sometimes too artistic that felt like a deliberate prop by the producers. Still, this is certainly one of most unique anime movie ever, and a great idea for story telling.
|
Hirasawa Susumu - Rotation[LOTUS-2] | 5 6 |
| 千と千尋の神隠し Spirited Away |
2001 | Studio Ghibli | 10 | Studio Ghibli at its very peak, Spirited Away is a great film. This movie takes audience into a completely different world filled with fantasy. Many great scenes, excellent character development. One of the must-sees for Japanese movies. Picture Of The Year in Japan Academy Awards '02, Best Animated Feature in Academy Awards '02
|
Kimura Yumi - Itsumo Nandodemo | 6 7 |
| メトロポリス Metropolis |
2001 | Fantasy | 10 | This movie is the perfect example of what an anime movie should be. Characters have retained the original Tezuka Osamu feel to it with retro graphics, yet with the use of CG, it seemed very futuristic. This film addresses important issues like what it is to be human and our increasing dependance to machines. The script was very well written, exciting from the beginning to the very end, filled with suspense. All the characters that appear in this movie was very well designed and develop nicely, and there were many touching scenes. This movie will become a timeless masterpiece.
|
Mooki - THERE'LL NEVER BE GOOD-BYE | 6 9 |
| もののけ姫 Mononoke Hime AKA: Princess Mononoke |
1997 | Studio Ghibli | 9 | Another solid movie from Studio Ghibli. Action-packed thriller for the entire film. The drawing on this thing was perfect, and great adventure story. A beautiful film.
|
Mera Yoshikazu - Mononoke Hime | 4 8 |
| MEMORIES MEMORIES |
1995 | Adventure | 9 | This film consists of three short films: Magnetic Rose, Stink Bomb, and Cannon Fodder. The title "MEMORIES" is based on Magnetic Rose, where a group of garbage collectors in space investigate a SOS signal coming from an abandoned ship. The story is very deep and exciting. Stink Bomb is a hilarious bioterror comedy with lots of action. These two short films have incredibly good graphic effects for something made in the mid-90's. Cannon Fodder reminded me of Orwell's 1984, it's a boy's day in a totalitarian society that revolves around firing cannons toward an unknown enemy. The whole 15 minute of this short film is done in one shot using many advanced transition techniques. This was a very interesting experience for me with short animated films.
|
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| 幽☆遊☆白書 冥界死闘篇 炎の絆 Yu Yu Hakusho: The Movie - Fight for the Netherworld |
1994 | Action | 4 | I was a HUGE Yuu Yuu Hakushou fan back in the day, but this movie was a total disappointment. The story was SO cheesy, it doesn't do justice for the original series. For those who haven't seen it already, just watch the anime series, it's a masterpiece.
|
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| 魔女の宅急便 Kiki's Delivery Service |
1989 | Studio Ghibli | 9 | A classic from Studio Ghibli, Majo no Takkyuubin is a great fantasy anime movie. A great story wrapped in a single film, a girl goes on a journey to adulthood, yet discovers the greatness of childhood.
|
Arai Yumi - Yasahisa ni Tsutsumaretanara | 8 7 |
| アキラ -AKIRA- AKIRA |
1988 | Adventure/Action | 7 | A famous classic anime, generally considered to be an epic, but it was just an okay movie for me. The story and characters were very interesting, but did not meet my expectation after hearing all those positive feedbacks about this movie.
|
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| となりのトトロ Tonari no Totoro AKA: My Neighbor Totoro |
1988 | Studio Ghibli | 8 | A fantasy anime that shows the beauty of nature in Japan and the beauty that only kids can see... It is one of the most magical anime I've seen, but extremely overrated IMO. The story seemed to be too short and draggy for a feature length film, and largely aimed for kids. However, Totoro and many supernatural characters were very well designed and adorable.
|
Inoue Azumi - Tonari no Totoro | 9 10 |
| 天空の城ラピュタ Castle in the Sky: Laputa |
1986 | Studio Ghibli | ? | There are actually many Studio Ghibli movie I've seen, yet cannot fully remember the details, so I didn't include it in my review. But this film is the very first Ghibli movie I saw when I was in grade 1 (my teacher actually showed us in class), and although my Japanese was not very well at the time, but the theme song is still stuck in my momory. Any movie that sticks to my mind after more than 15 years must be good, I hope I get to see this movie again.
|
Inoue Azumi - Kimi wo Nosete | 10 10 |
| ドラえもん映画作品 Doraemon Movies |
1980 ~ Present (Yearly) | Adventure | 9~10 | Doraemon movies are simply the best. Every single movie I've seen (before 1996) had been incredibly well-written, filled with adventure, friendship, and cool new tools. These movies are definitely worth a watch if you get the chance.
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