18 Best Takashi Miike Films: The Wild Card of Japanese Cinema

Takashi Miike is a prolific Japanese filmmaker known for his boundary-pushing and often controversial films.

With over 100 directorial credits to his name, Miike has made a name for himself with his distinctive visual style and willingness to explore dark and taboo subject matter.

Here are some of Takashi Miike’s best films:

Audition (1999) – a horror-thriller about a widower who sets up auditions for a new wife, but becomes entangled in a twisted and disturbing relationship with one of the candidates.

Ichi the Killer (2001) – a violent and graphic crime thriller about a sadistic yakuza enforcer and a mysterious and equally violent killer named Ichi.

13 Assassins (2010) – a samurai epic about a group of assassins who band together to take down a sadistic and powerful warlord in feudal Japan.

Visitor Q (2001) – a dark and disturbing satire about a dysfunctional family who become embroiled in a series of increasingly bizarre and perverse situations.

Gozu (2003) – a surreal and bizarre crime thriller about a yakuza member sent to dispose of a fellow member, only to get lost in a strange and dreamlike town.

Best Takashi Miike Films

These films showcase Miike’s unique approach to filmmaking and his willingness to explore difficult and controversial subject matter.

They are not for the faint of heart, but for those who appreciate bold and boundary-pushing cinema, they are must-see films.

1. Ichi the Killer (2001)  

“Ichi the Killer” is a 2001 Japanese crime-horror film directed by Takashi Miike, based on the manga series of the same name by Hideo Yamamoto.

The film is known for its extreme violence and sadomasochistic themes, which have earned it a reputation as one of the most controversial and disturbing films ever made.

The plot follows a yakuza boss named Anjo who goes missing, and his loyal but sadistic enforcer, Kakihara, sets out to find him.

In the process, Kakihara crosses paths with a mysterious and equally violent killer named Ichi, who may hold the key to Anjo’s disappearance.

The two men engage in a brutal and bloody game of cat and mouse, with each seeking to prove their dominance over the other.

“Ichi the Killer” is known for its graphic violence and disturbing imagery, including scenes of torture and mutilation. It has been banned in several countries and has been the subject of controversy and debate among critics and audiences alike.

Despite its extreme content, the film has gained a cult following and is considered a classic of the Japanese horror genre. It is not for everyone, but for fans of extreme cinema, “Ichi the Killer” is a must-see.

2. Visitor Q (2001)

Takashi Miike is a prolific Japanese filmmaker known for his boundary-pushing and often controversial films.

With over 100 directorial credits to his name, Miike has made a name for himself with his distinctive visual style and willingness to explore dark and taboo subject matter.

Here are some of Takashi Miike’s best films:

Audition (1999) – a horror-thriller about a widower who sets up auditions for a new wife, but becomes entangled in a twisted and disturbing relationship with one of the candidates.

Ichi the Killer (2001) – a violent and graphic crime thriller about a sadistic yakuza enforcer and a mysterious and equally violent killer named Ichi.

13 Assassins (2010) – a samurai epic about a group of assassins who band together to take down a sadistic and powerful warlord in feudal Japan.

Visitor Q (2001) – a dark and disturbing satire about a dysfunctional family who become embroiled in a series of increasingly bizarre and perverse situations.

Gozu (2003) – a surreal and bizarre crime thriller about a yakuza member sent to dispose of a fellow member, only to get lost in a strange and dreamlike town.

These films showcase Miike’s unique approach to filmmaking and his willingness to explore difficult and controversial subject matter.

They are not for the faint of heart, but for those who appreciate bold and boundary-pushing cinema, they are must-see films.

3. The Happiness of the Katakuris (2001)             

“The Happiness of the Katakuris” is a 2001 Japanese musical-comedy-horror film directed by Takashi Miike.

The film is a unique blend of different genres and styles, incorporating elements of dark comedy, horror, musical numbers, and stop-motion animation.

The story follows the Katakuris, a family who run a struggling guesthouse in the countryside.

To drum up business, they bury their guests in the nearby woods and stage fake accidents, but their plans are complicated by a series of unexpected events, including a volcanic eruption, a missing guest, and a group of zombies who rise from the dead and start singing and dancing.

The film is a playful and irreverent take on the horror genre, with a whimsical and upbeat tone that contrasts with its macabre subject matter.

It is a visual feast, with colorful and imaginative sets, creative camera work, and inventive use of special effects.”The Happiness of the Katakuris” is not for everyone, but for those who appreciate offbeat and eccentric cinema, it is a must-see.

It has gained a cult following over the years and is regarded as one of Takashi Miike’s most beloved and entertaining films.

4. Audition (1999

“Audition” is a 1999 Japanese horror-thriller film directed by Takashi Miike, based on a novel by Ryu Murakami. The film is known for its slow-building tension, disturbing subject matter, and shocking finale.

The story follows a widower named Shigeharu Aoyama who, at the urging of his friend, holds a fake audition to find a new wife. He becomes enamored with a soft-spoken and demure young woman named Asami, and the two begin a relationship.

However, as their relationship deepens, Aoyama begins to uncover a dark and twisted past that Asami has been hiding, and he realizes that she may not be who she seems.

The film is a masterclass in suspense and psychological horror, with a deliberately slow pace that allows the tension to build steadily over the course of the story.

It is also a commentary on gender roles and power dynamics, with Asami’s character serving as a chilling and memorable embodiment of female rage.

“Audition” is not for the faint of heart, with scenes of extreme violence and body horror that are sure to shock and disturb audiences.

However, for those who appreciate bold and uncompromising cinema, it is a must-see film that showcases Takashi Miike’s unique and uncompromising approach to filmmaking.

5. Gozu (2003)  

“Gozu” is a 2003 Japanese horror film directed by Takashi Miike. The film is a surreal and bizarre take on the yakuza genre, with elements of horror, comedy, and eroticism.

The story follows Minami, a young yakuza member who is sent on a mission to dispose of his boss’s mentally unstable brother.

However, when Minami loses the man’s body, he embarks on a strange and hallucinatory journey through a nightmarish landscape, encountering a variety of bizarre and grotesque characters along the way.

The film is a surreal and dreamlike exploration of identity, masculinity, and the nature of reality.

It features a wide range of eccentric and memorable characters, including a lactating woman, a man with a fetish for women in dog costumes, and a mysterious woman who may hold the key to Minami’s journey.

“Gozu” is not for everyone, with its graphic imagery, surreal storytelling, and bizarre subject matter.

However, for those who appreciate unconventional and challenging cinema, it is a must-see film that showcases Takashi Miike’s unique and uncompromising approach to filmmaking.

6. Izo (2004)      

“Izo” is a 2004 Japanese samurai fantasy film directed by Takashi Miike. The film tells the story of Izo, a historical figure who was executed in the late 19th century for his role in a rebellion against the government.

In the film, Izo is reincarnated as a supernatural being, tasked with traveling through time and space to kill those responsible for his suffering.

The film is a surreal and hallucinatory journey through history and mythology, with Izo encountering a variety of characters from different time periods and dimensions, including samurai, politicians, and gods.

The film is characterized by its extreme violence, graphic imagery, and nonlinear storytelling, with scenes of brutal violence and torture that are sure to shock and disturb viewers.

“Izo” is not for the faint of heart, with its uncompromising and challenging approach to storytelling and filmmaking.

However, for those who appreciate bold and unconventional cinema, it is a must-see film that showcases Takashi Miike’s unique and uncompromising style.

It is a film that pushes the boundaries of the samurai genre and explores deep themes of revenge, justice, and the cyclical nature of violence.

7. Fudoh: The New Generation (1996)   

“Fudoh: The New Generation” is a 1996 Japanese crime film directed by Takashi Miike. The film follows Riki Fudoh, a high school student who is also the son of a yakuza boss. When his father is killed by a rival gang, Riki sets out on a bloody mission of revenge, with the help of a group of loyal followers.

The film is characterized by its extreme violence, sexual content, and dark humor, with over-the-top action sequences and a storyline that twists and turns in unexpected ways. It is a wild and chaotic ride through the criminal underworld, with Riki and his gang battling rival yakuza factions, corrupt police officers, and even a group of child assassins.

Despite its extreme content, “Fudoh: The New Generation” is also a commentary on Japanese society and the youth culture of the 1990s.

It features a cast of rebellious and disenfranchised young people who are willing to do whatever it takes to achieve their goals and create a new order.

Overall, “Fudoh: The New Generation” is a fast-paced and entertaining crime film that showcases Takashi Miike’s unique visual style and willingness to push the boundaries of the genre.

It is a cult classic that has gained a following among fans of extreme and unconventional cinema.

8. Masters of Horror (2005–2007) Episode: Imprint (2006)           

“Imprint” is the thirteenth and final episode of the first season of the horror anthology TV series “Masters of Horror.” It was directed by Takashi Miike and written by Daisuke Tengan.

The episode was originally produced as part of a thirteen-episode season, but was deemed too graphic and disturbing for television by Showtime, the network that aired the series in the United States.

As a result, “Imprint” was not broadcast on television in the United States, and was only made available as part of the DVD box set release of the first season.

The episode is set in 19th century Japan and follows Christopher, an American journalist who travels to a remote island in search of a woman named Komomo, whom he fell in love with the previous year.

Upon arriving on the island, Christopher learns from a brothel owner that Komomo was banished for her deformed appearance.

Christopher becomes determined to find her, and his search leads him to a mysterious brothel where he encounters a series of bizarre and grotesque characters.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqomKbJ_zWc

As he delves deeper into the brothel’s secrets, Christopher begins to uncover the dark and disturbing truth about what happened to Komomo.

“Imprint” is known for its extreme violence, graphic sexual content, and disturbing imagery, and has been described as one of the most disturbing episodes of the series.

The episode has also been praised for its atmospheric cinematography and the performances of its cast, including Billy Drago, Michie Itô, and Toshie Negishi.

9. Crows Zero (2007)      

“Crows Zero” is a 2007 Japanese action film directed by Takashi Miike and based on the manga series “Crows” by Hiroshi Takahashi.

The film follows the story of Genji Takiya, a new student at Suzuran High School, a notorious institution known for its violent student body and numerous gangs.

Genji is determined to take over as the school’s top gang leader and set a new standard for the school’s students.

As Genji sets out to conquer the school’s numerous gangs, he faces opposition from the school’s reigning kingpin, Tamao Serizawa, and his loyal followers.

The film chronicles Genji’s battles with the school’s various gangs and his eventual confrontation with Serizawa, as he strives to become the new king of Suzuran High School.

The film features a large ensemble cast of young actors, including Shun Oguri as Genji Takiya, Takayuki Yamada as Tamao Serizawa, and Kyôsuke Yabe as Ken Katagiri.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGGBHeXaM5E

The film’s action sequences are known for their intense and realistic depictions of hand-to-hand combat, with the use of martial arts and street fighting techniques.

“Crows Zero” was a commercial success in Japan, and spawned two sequels, “Crows Zero II” (2009) and “Crows Explode” (2014), both of which were also directed by Takashi Miike.

The film has also been praised for its portrayal of teenage gang culture and its commentary on the Japanese education system.

10. Dead or Alive 2: Birds (2000)              

“Dead or Alive 2: Birds” is a 2000 Japanese crime film directed by Takashi Miike. It is a sequel to the 1999 film “Dead or Alive,” but features a completely different story and characters.

The film follows the lives of two childhood friends, Ryô and Chao, who reunite as adults and become hitmen for a yakuza boss.

However, they both begin to question their violent lifestyle and seek a way out of their criminal world.

Meanwhile, a group of orphans living on the streets, who call themselves the “Street Angels,” attempt to find a way to escape their own difficult lives.

As Ryô and Chao continue their work as hitmen, they are sent on a mission to kill a rival gang leader, which ultimately leads to a violent confrontation.

The film then takes a surreal turn, exploring themes of life, death, and redemption.

“Dead or Alive 2: Birds” features a large ensemble cast, including Sho Aikawa as Ryô, Riki Takeuchi as Chao, and Noriko Aota as the leader of the Street Angels.

The film’s stylistic approach, which blends elements of surrealism, violence, and drama, has been praised by critics, along with its unique exploration of themes of redemption and the cyclical nature of violence.

The film is often considered one of Takashi Miike’s best works, and has gained a cult following among fans of Japanese cinema.

11. 13 Assassins (2010) 

“13 Assassins” is a 2010 Japanese jidaigeki (period drama) film directed by Takashi Miike. The film is a remake of the 1963 film of the same name, and is set in 1844 during Japan’s Edo period.

The story revolves around a group of samurai who are hired to assassinate Lord Naritsugu, a sadistic and cruel young lord who is next in line for the shogunate.

The samurai are led by Shinzaemon Shimada, a veteran warrior who assembles a team of thirteen skilled assassins to take down Naritsugu and his army of loyal soldiers.

The majority of the film takes place during a climactic battle scene, as the thirteen assassins prepare to take on Naritsugu and his army in a small village.

The film’s action sequences are known for their intense and visceral depictions of combat, with a focus on hand-to-hand combat and sword fights.

The film features an ensemble cast of veteran Japanese actors, including Kôji Yakusho as Shinzaemon Shimada, Goro Inagaki as Lord Naritsugu, and Takayuki Yamada as Shinrouko.

The film’s visual style, which blends elements of traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern filmmaking techniques, has been praised by critics.

“13 Assassins” was a commercial and critical success, and has been praised for its masterful storytelling, expertly choreographed action sequences, and its exploration of themes such as honor, loyalty, and sacrifice.

It is often considered one of Takashi Miike’s best works, and has gained a following among fans of Japanese cinema and samurai films

12. Graveyard of Honor (2002)  

“Graveyard of Honor” is a 2002 Japanese crime film directed by Takashi Miike. The film is a remake of the 1975 film of the same name, which was based on the true story of a yakuza member named Rikio Ishikawa.

The film follows the story of a low-level yakuza named Rikuo Ishimatsu, who rises through the ranks of his gang through acts of violence and brutality.

However, his increasing power and lack of control lead to his downfall, and he becomes a target for both rival gangs and the police.

“Graveyard of Honor” is known for its graphic violence and depiction of the seedy underbelly of the yakuza world.

The film features an ensemble cast of veteran Japanese actors, including Goro Kishitani as Rikuo Ishimatsu, Narimi Arimori as his wife, and Shingo Tsurumi as his yakuza boss.

The film’s visual style, which uses handheld cameras and natural lighting to create a gritty and realistic feel, has been praised by critics.

The film’s exploration of themes such as loyalty, honor, and the cycle of violence has also been noted.

“Graveyard of Honor” has been described as a powerful and disturbing portrayal of the yakuza lifestyle, and is considered one of Takashi Miike’s most intense and brutal films.

While the film has been criticized for its excessive violence and graphic content, it has also been praised for its unflinching honesty and realistic portrayal of the yakuza world.

13. The Bird People in China (1998)        

“The Bird People in China” is a 1998 Japanese film directed by Takashi Miike. The film is a blend of adventure, drama, and fantasy, and tells the story of two businessmen who travel to a remote village in China in search of jade deposits.

The film follows the two businessmen, Ujiie and Wada, as they travel to a small village in a remote region of China to investigate the possibility of a large jade deposit.

As they journey deeper into the mountains, they encounter a mysterious tribe of people who have a deep connection with birds, and who possess a magical power to control the weather.

As Ujiie and Wada learn more about the bird people and their culture, they are forced to confront their own preconceptions and beliefs about the world.

The film explores themes such as cultural differences, environmentalism, and the power of myth and storytelling.

The film stars Masahiro Motoki as Ujiie and Renji Ishibashi as Wada, as well as Mako as Shen, the leader of the bird people.

The film’s stunning visuals, which blend natural landscapes with surreal and fantastical imagery, have been praised by critics.

“The Bird People in China” has been described as a poetic and thought-provoking film that explores the intersections between different cultures and ways of life.

While it may not be as well-known as some of Takashi Miike’s more violent or genre-bending films, “The Bird People in China” is often considered one of his most poetic and visually stunning works.

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14. Dead or Alive (1999)              

“Dead or Alive” is a 1999 Japanese crime film directed by Takashi Miike.

The film follows the story of two detectives, one a seasoned veteran and the other a young and ambitious newcomer, who are tasked with investigating the criminal activities of a yakuza gang led by a ruthless boss named Ryuichi.

The film’s plot is fast-paced and violent, with numerous action sequences and dramatic confrontations between the detectives and the yakuza.

The film also features elements of surrealism and dark humor, with unexpected twists and turns in the story.

The two lead actors, Riki Takeuchi and Sho Aikawa, who play the yakuza boss and the veteran detective, respectively, have become associated with Takashi Miike’s films and have appeared in numerous other works by the director.

“Dead or Alive” has been described as a visceral and intense crime thriller that blends elements of traditional yakuza films with the director’s trademark dark humor and avant-garde style.

The film’s violent and provocative content has been controversial, but it has also earned a cult following and critical acclaim.

“Dead or Alive” has since spawned two sequels, “Dead or Alive 2: Birds” and “Dead or Alive: Final,” although the sequels have a different tone and style from the original film.

15. Rainy Dog (1997)     

“Rainy Dog” is a 1997 Japanese film directed by Takashi Miike. The film is the second installment in what is known as Miike’s Black Society Trilogy, which also includes “Shinjuku Triad Society” and “Ley Lines”.

The film tells the story of a Japanese hitman named Yuuji, who is exiled to Taiwan and forced to live in a small, cramped apartment with his dog during the rainy season.

Struggling to make ends meet and haunted by his past, Yuuji begins to form a bond with a local prostitute and her young son, despite the language barrier and cultural differences.

The film is known for its atmospheric and moody visuals, which capture the gritty and oppressive environment of the city and the characters’ emotional states.

The film’s exploration of themes such as isolation, loneliness, and redemption has also been noted by critics.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgN0BnrwruQ

“Rainy Dog” stars Sho Aikawa as Yuuji, as well as Taiwanese actress Xianmei Chen as the prostitute and Fan Wei as the young boy.

The film’s soundtrack, which features a mix of Japanese and Taiwanese music, adds to the film’s immersive and evocative mood.

Overall, “Rainy Dog” is considered one of Takashi Miike’s more subdued and introspective works, but it still features the director’s trademark style and themes, such as unconventional characters, graphic violence, and a blend of genres and influences.

16. Young Thugs: Nostalgia (1998)           

“Young Thugs: Nostalgia” is a 1998 Japanese film directed by Takashi Miike. The film is the second installment in a trilogy of films that follows the lives of a group of young delinquents in Osaka during the 1960s and 1970s.

The other films in the trilogy are “Young Thugs: Innocent Blood” (1997) and “Young Thugs: Maeda’s Boys” (1999).

The film follows the story of Shin, a teenage gang member who is released from a juvenile detention center and returns to his old neighborhood, where he reunites with his old friends and tries to rebuild his life.

However, he finds that his former gang has been disbanded and his old friends have moved on with their lives. Shin struggles to come to terms with his past actions and to find a new direction for his future.

The film explores themes of nostalgia, redemption, and the challenges of growing up in a harsh environment. The film’s depiction of the social and economic struggles of working-class communities in Osaka has also been noted by critics.

“Young Thugs: Nostalgia” stars Naoto Takenaka as Shin’s father and Gou Ayano as Shin. The film’s authentic period details and use of Osaka dialect add to the film’s immersive and realistic atmosphere.

Overall, “Young Thugs: Nostalgia” is considered one of Takashi Miike’s more restrained and introspective works, focusing on character development and emotional drama rather than graphic violence and shocking imagery.

However, the film still showcases the director’s skill at depicting the complexities and contradictions of human nature.

17. Blues Harp (1998)    

“Blues Harp” is a 1998 Japanese film directed by Takashi Miike. The film tells the story of a young blues musician named Tetsu who dreams of making it big in Tokyo.

After being fired from his day job, Tetsu teams up with a street performer named Yoji to form a blues duo and begin playing at local clubs and bars.

As they become more successful, Tetsu and Yoji attract the attention of a yakuza boss who is also a fan of the blues.

The boss offers to finance their music career, but his true intentions are unclear, and Tetsu and Yoji must navigate their way through the criminal underworld while trying to stay true to their art.

The film is known for its gritty and realistic portrayal of the Tokyo music scene and the characters’ struggles to make a name for themselves.

The film’s use of blues music and themes of artistic expression and freedom have also been noted by critics.

“Blues Harp” stars Hiroyuki Ikeuchi as Tetsu, as well as Goro Kishitani as the yakuza boss and Shoko Aida as Yoji’s girlfriend.

The film’s atmospheric and moody cinematography adds to the film’s immersive and evocative tone.

Overall, “Blues Harp” is considered one of Takashi Miike’s more restrained and contemplative works, focusing on character development and emotional drama rather than graphic violence and shocking imagery.

However, the film still showcases the director’s talent for exploring complex themes and characters in a unique and compelling way.

18. Crows Zero II (2009)

“Crows Zero II” is a 2009 Japanese action film directed by Takashi Miike. The film is a sequel to “Crows Zero” and is based on the manga series “Crows” by Hiroshi Takahashi.

The film continues the story of high school student Genji Takiya, who has defeated the rival gang leader Serizawa in a brutal battle.

However, he now faces a new enemy in the form of the ruthless and powerful Tamao Serizawa, the younger brother of the previous leader.

As Genji struggles to gain control of the school and defeat Tamao, he must also confront his own inner demons and come to terms with the violence and brutality of his life as a gang leader.

The film features intense fight scenes and a strong focus on the complex relationships between the characters, as well as themes of loyalty, friendship, and the pursuit of power.

“Crows Zero II” stars Shun Oguri as Genji, Kyosuke Yabe as Tamao, and Takayuki Yamada as Rinda, one of Genji’s key allies.

The film’s use of dynamic camera work and stylish visual effects add to the film’s adrenaline-fueled atmosphere.

Overall, “Crows Zero II” is considered a worthy follow-up to the original film, expanding upon its characters and themes while maintaining the same level of intense action and emotional drama.

The film was a commercial success and has become a cult favorite among fans of the genre.

Best Takashi Miike Films – Wrapping Up

Takashi Miike is a prolific Japanese filmmaker known for his diverse range of films that often blend genres and push boundaries.

With over 100 films to his credit, it can be challenging to narrow down his best work, but here are some of his most notable and critically acclaimed films:

1. Audition (1999)
2. Ichi the Killer (2001)
3. 13 Assassins (2010)
4. Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai (2011)
5. Visitor Q (2001)
6. Dead or Alive (1999)
7. The Bird People in China (1998)
8. Fudoh: The New Generation (1996)
9. Happiness of the Katakuris (2001)
10. Gozu (2003)