42 Best Movies to Watch From Japan

The Cannes-winning saga from one of Japan's most exciting directors: Hirokazu Koreeda. .

A strange story of love and parenting but the children are half-human, half-wolf. .

Another tremendous family drama from the immaculate filmography of Hirokazu Koreeda .

In his revered trademark style, Koreeda delivers another intricate drama pondering the meaning of family. .

This surprising documentary follows Jiro, an 85 year old Japanese chef, his Michelin-starred restaurant in the Tokyo underground, and his eager sons. While ostensibly about sushi – and believe me, you’ll learn about sushi and see absolutely gorgeous images of the raw-fish creations – the film’s dramatic impetus is carried by the weight of tradition, the beauty of a labor of love, obsession, and the relationship between father and son. Truly a must-watch.

A coming-of-age movie that circles around friendship and the atonement of a boy.

Neil Jordan's masterpiece psychological thriller .

Japanese mastermind Koreeda's plotless exploration of grief.

Finds magic in the ordinary every day—and reminds us the most special art is that which comes from the heart.