In recent years, Japanese cinema has acquired a global reputation for its gripping storylines, fascinating cinematography, and distinct take on the thriller genre. From psychological to action thrillers, Japanese directors have consistently provided a wide range of cinematic experiences that keep spectators on the edge of their seats. Thanks to OTT platforms like Netflix, viewers all over the world can now easily access a diverse collection of Japanese thriller films that highlight the best of the genre.
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Take a look at some of the best Japanese thriller movies on Netflix that are worth binging.
The Forest of Love
"The Forest of Love," directed by Sion Sono, is a wild and adventurous thriller that defies categorization. Loosely based on true events, the film follows a serial killer, a group of filmmakers, and a young child. What begins as an apparently innocent collaboration quickly turns into a nightmare of manipulation, violence, and obsession. With its dark humor and violence, "The Forest of Love" is a daring study of the darkest recesses of human nature.
The Village
"The Village" is a Japanese thriller film starring Ryusei Yokohama, Haru Kuroki, Wataru Ichinose, and Daiken Okudaira. Released in 2023, it revolves around a young man who lives in a village that has evolved from a gorgeous tourist destination to a garbage dump. Determined to escape the stifling hold of his surroundings, the protagonist attempts to break free from the tragic fate that has tethered him to this bleak location.
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Usogui
"Usogui" is a Japanese thriller mystery film starring Kaito Sakurai, Hayato Sano, Ryusei Yokohama, and Mai Shiraishi. Released in 2022, it depicts the journey of a talented gambler on a mission to take on the nation's finest swindlers. His goal is to seize control of a powerful secret group and achieve absolute power.
Re/Member
Another popular Japanese thriller that you should watch on Netflix is "Re/Member," a Japanese teen horror thriller film based on the popular online book "Karada Sagashi." The plot concerns a group of high school students who become trapped in a time loop created by a furious ghost. To break the time loop, they must find the body of the ghost's previous victim.
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So grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare for a cinematic journey into the heart of Japanese thrillers, now streaming on Netflix.
