The Top Five Japanese Films Of 2017 So Far

Hey there, movie buffs! Wanna talk about some seriously cool flicks? We're diving into the amazing world of Japanese cinema for 2017. Seriously, Japan churns out some wild, heartwarming, and downright bizarre stuff. It's a genre all its own, and honestly, it's just plain fun to explore. So grab your popcorn (or maybe some edamame?) and let's get into the top five Japanese films that have totally rocked our world this year. Get ready for some surprises!

Why Japan, you ask? Because they're not afraid to go there. They’ll give you a story about robots, then a touching tale of lost love, and then BAM! A samurai showdown with talking animals. It’s unpredictable, it’s creative, and it always leaves you thinking. Plus, the visuals? Always top-notch. Think vibrant colors, breathtaking landscapes, and some of the most expressive character designs you’ll ever see. So, buckle up, it’s going to be a fun ride!

1. Your Name. (Kimi no Na wa.)

Okay, okay, I know what you're thinking. "Isn't that from 2016?" Technically, its major international release was late 2016, but its massive global cultural impact, especially in 2017, makes it an absolute must-include. This movie? It’s pure magic. Like, actual, real-deal magic. It’s a body-swapping, time-bending, comet-chasing romance that will absolutely shatter your heart and then put it back together even stronger. Seriously, tears were shed. Many tears.

The premise is wild: a Tokyo high school boy and a country girl literally wake up in each other's bodies. Imagine trying to navigate daily life when you're suddenly someone else! The humor comes from their hilarious attempts to adapt. But beneath the comedy is a deeply moving story about connection and fate. And the animation? Oh. My. GOSH. It's absolutely stunning. Every frame is a masterpiece. You'll want to pause it just to admire the artistry. It's the kind of film that makes you believe in destiny, even if that destiny involves a giant, potentially world-ending meteor shower. It's just that good.

Fun fact: This film became the fourth highest-grossing film of all time in Japan, and the highest-grossing anime film globally. That’s saying something, right? It’s proof that a good story, told beautifully, can transcend borders and languages. It’s the kind of movie that stays with you long after the credits roll. You’ll be humming the soundtrack and thinking about those characters for ages.

2. Blade of the Immortal (Mugen no Jūnin)

Alright, buckle up for some seriously epic samurai action! This one is based on a manga, which, let's be honest, is usually a good sign for intense sword fights. We're talking about Manji, a samurai who can't die. Yep, you read that right. He’s immortal. And he’s got a mission to protect a young girl named Rin. Because, you know, duty calls. Even when you’ve got a thousand stab wounds and are still kicking.

This film is brutal in the best way possible. The sword choreography is insane. It’s fast, it’s fluid, and it’s incredibly well-executed. You’ll be on the edge of your seat watching Manji take on hordes of baddies. But it’s not just mindless violence. There's a story of redemption here, of a man burdened by his past and seeking peace. And Rin? She’s a fierce little thing, determined to avenge her family. Together, they’re a force to be reckoned with.

Quirky detail: Manji’s immortality comes with a price, of course. He has to bleed out a certain amount of blood for every wound he sustains. So, you’ll see a lot of… well, blood. But it’s handled with a certain artistic flair, so it’s more stylized than gory. Think of it as a badge of honor for surviving another ridiculously difficult fight. Plus, the villains are genuinely menacing. They’re not just bad guys; they’re terrifying forces of nature. It’s a thrilling ride from start to finish.

3. One Cut of the Dead (Kamera o Tomeru na!)

Okay, this one is a curveball. And it’s absolutely brilliant. You think you know where it’s going, and then BAM! It flips everything on its head. This film starts as a low-budget zombie movie being filmed. It’s a bit shaky, the acting is… enthusiastic, and things are going hilariously wrong on set. Seriously, the first 30 minutes are almost hard to watch because it’s so bad, it’s good. But trust me, stick with it. You are so going to thank me later.

Because the genius of One Cut of the Dead is in its reveal. It’s a meta-comedy that explores the chaos and camaraderie of filmmaking. It’s about finding beauty and humor in the most unexpected places. The way it’s structured is pure genius, and the payoff is immensely satisfying. You’ll be laughing out loud, then cheering, and maybe even tearing up a little. It’s a celebration of the sheer joy of making movies, no matter the budget.

Funny fact: This movie was made for peanuts. Like, seriously. The director and cast were incredibly dedicated, and it shows. It’s a testament to creativity and passion. And the fact that it became a massive critical and commercial success is just the cherry on top. It’s the underdog story of the year, proving that a great idea and a lot of heart can conquer anything. It’s pure, unadulterated cinematic fun.

4. Haikara-san: Here After Years (Haikara-san ga Tōru Zenpen: Hana no Uranaishi)

If you’re looking for something a bit more charming and historical, this is your jam. This is the first part of an adaptation of a beloved shojo manga from the 70s. We’re talking about Benio Hanamura, a spirited young woman in Taisho-era Japan who’s definitely not your typical demure lady. She’s rebellious, she’s independent, and she’s got a lot of opinions. Think flapper meets samurai spirit, but in beautiful kimonos. It's a breath of fresh air.

Benio is just fantastic. She rides horses, she drinks sake, and she’s not afraid to speak her mind, which was pretty radical for the time. The story follows her adventures as she navigates societal expectations, arranged marriages, and her own desires. It’s got romance, it’s got drama, and it’s got a wonderful sense of humor. Plus, the costumes and set design are absolutely gorgeous. It’s a visual feast that transports you back in time.

Quirky detail: Benio is obsessed with Western culture. She loves dancing, wears western-style clothing, and even tries to speak English. It’s a fun glimpse into a Japan that was rapidly modernizing and embracing new influences. It’s a story about finding your own path and not letting anyone else dictate your life. It's empowering and super entertaining. You’ll be rooting for Benio every step of the way.

5. Ghost in the Shell (Kōkaku Kidōtai)

Okay, this one is a classic, and the 2017 live-action version with Scarlett Johansson got a lot of buzz. But we're talking about the original animated masterpiece from 1995 that heavily influenced the 2017 film and continues to resonate. This is sci-fi at its finest. It’s a cyberpunk thriller that dives deep into questions of identity, consciousness, and what it truly means to be human in a world where technology blurs the lines between man and machine.

Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cybernetically enhanced operative, is hunting down a mysterious hacker known as the Puppet Master. It’s a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating journey. The animation is groundbreaking for its time, and the philosophical themes are still incredibly relevant today. It’s the kind of film that makes you think about the future, our reliance on technology, and our very existence.

Fun fact: Ghost in the Shell is legendary for its influence. It’s inspired countless films, video games, and anime series. The Wachowskis have cited it as a major inspiration for The Matrix, and you can totally see why. It’s a film that redefined what sci-fi could be. It’s dark, it’s moody, and it’s absolutely captivating. If you haven’t seen it, you’re missing out on a piece of cinematic history. It’s the perfect blend of action, philosophy, and mind-bending visuals.

So there you have it! Five Japanese films from around 2017 that are totally worth checking out. Whether you’re into epic samurai battles, heartwarming romances, mind-bending sci-fi, or hilarious meta-comedies, there’s something here for everyone. Go on, dive in. You might just discover your new favorite film!