The 80+ Best Japanese Yakuza Movies
- 1Beat Kitano, Susumu Terajima, Ren Osugi
A hypnotic, dreamlike journey into the world of Japanese organized crime, this film masterfully weaves together a tale of vengeance and brotherhood. The tranquility of a coastal hideout juxtaposes with the brutal violence lurking beneath the surface, creating an atmosphere ripe for tension and suspense. Directed by Takeshi Kitano, who also stars as the lead character, this is a Yakuza masterpiece that'll keep you hooked until the very end.
More Sonatine
- #17 of 42 onThe Best Action Movies On Paramount+
- #76 of 79 onThe 75+ Best Movies About Suicide
- #33 of 50 onThe Best Action Movies of 1993
- 2Beat Kitano, Eihi Shiina, Renji Ishibashi
An explosive exploration of gang warfare within Japan's criminal underworld—this thriller boasts heart-pounding action sequences and a complex, twisting narrative. With rival factions vying for control, loyalties are tested and alliances shattered as betrayal runs rampant amongst the ranks. Directed by Takeshi Kitano, Outrage takes viewers on a gripping ride through the dark and deadly world of the Yakuza.
More Outrage- #13 of 13 onThe Best Japanese Movies Streaming on Hulu
- #84 of 84 onThe Best Movies Directed by the Star
- #48 of 55 onThe Best Foreign Films Of The 2010s Decade
- 3Eimei Esumi, Kōjirō Kusanagi, Kanjūrō Arashi
A hard-edged fusion of neo-noir aesthetics and Yakuza cinema, this thrilling tale centers on a stoic hitman and his partner on the run after a job goes awry. Filled with stylish shootouts and high-stakes confrontations, the film showcases director Takashi Nomura's flair for visual storytelling while offering a unique perspective on Japan's criminal underworld. This one's definitely not to be missed!
- 4Bunta Sugawara, Kunie Tanaka, Hiroki Matsukata
Arguably one of the defining films of Japanese gangster cinema, this sprawling epic chronicles the tumultuous post-WWII period in Hiroshima as various factions vie for power. A gritty and visceral portrait of crime and chaos, the film masterfully weaves together a complex web of betrayals and shifting allegiances while exploring the darker side of human nature. Directed by Kinji Fukasaku, Battles Without Honor and Humanity is an unforgettable journey into Japan's criminal underworld.
- 5
Street Mobster
Bunta Sugawara, Asao Koike, Noboru MitaniThis gritty crime drama follows the rise and fall of a small-time hoodlum turned Yakuza enforcer, capturing the relentless brutality and desperate lives of those entangled in Japan's seedy underbelly. With its raw portrayal of violence and immorality, Street Mobster offers a stark and unflinching look at the reality of organized crime. Directed by master filmmaker Kinji Fukasaku, this film promises to leave a lasting impression.
- 6Beat Kitano, Susumu Terajima, Ren Osugi
Blending brutal action with poetic visuals, this masterpiece by Takeshi Kitano tells the story of a weary cop's descent into the Yakuza underworld after his partner is killed. A deeply introspective film, Fireworks explores themes of loyalty, honor, and redemption as the protagonist seeks justice amidst escalating violence. With its deeply affecting storytelling and stunning visuals, this film will leave you breathless.
- 7Beat Kitano, Ryo Kase, Toshiyuki Nishida
The gripping sequel to Outrage sees the tense battle for power within the Japanese criminal underworld escalate to new heights. As rival bosses forge tenuous alliances in a bid for dominance, betrayals mount and bloodshed becomes inevitable. Directed once again by Takeshi Kitano, Beyond Outrage is a thrilling and unrelenting exploration of mob warfare that'll keep you on the edge of your seat.
- 8Takeshi Kitano, Claude Maki, Omar Epps
Takeshi Kitano's foray into American gangster cinema is a thrilling tale of betrayal, bloodshed, and brotherhood. After his Yakuza clan is wiped out in Japan, a stoic enforcer heads to Los Angeles, where he forms a new criminal empire with the help of his half-brother. As tensions rise with rival gangs and internal strife threatens their newfound empire, the film barrels towards a bloody and unforgettable climax. Equal parts character study and action-packed crime saga, Brother is a must-watch for fans of Kitano's unique brand of cinema.
- 9Toshiro Mifune, Takashi Shimura, Eitarō Shindō
A poignant character study set against the backdrop of Yakuza-ridden postwar Japan, this captivating drama follows an alcoholic doctor who befriends a dying gangster. Directed by Akira Kurosawa, the film skillfully delves into themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the struggle for survival in a ravaged cityscape. Drunken Angel is a cinematic treasure brimming with powerful performances and thought-provoking insights into human nature.
- 10Blackie Ko, Show Aikawa, Tomorowo Taguchi
This atmospheric crime drama from Takashi Miike tells the tale of an exiled Yakuza hitman who finds himself caring for an estranged son he never knew he had. Set amidst the rain-soaked streets of Taiwan, the film deftly balances poignant character development with brutal violence as its protagonist confronts his past and grapples with issues of loyalty, honor, and redemption. Rainy Dog is a beautifully crafted piece of cinema that's sure to leave an impact.
- 11Beat Takeshi, Toshiyuki Nishida, Tomokazu Miura
The third installment in Takeshi Kitano's heart-pounding trilogy delves even deeper into the violent world of Yakuza politics and treachery. As factions both new and old clash over territory and power, the body count rises in a whirlwind of bullets and bloodshed. Outrage Beyond is a fitting conclusion to this adrenaline-fueled saga, offering one heck of a wild ride.
- 12Eijirō Tōno, Seiji Miyaguchi, Ryō Ikebe
A tale of fatalism, obsession, and doomed love, this moody noir tells the story of a Yakuza hitman who becomes infatuated with an enigmatic woman after his release from prison. Delving into themes of desire, addiction, and the darkness lurking within us all, the film boasts striking visuals and a haunting ambiance that'll linger long after the credits roll. Directed by Masahiro Shinoda, Pale Flower is a captivating and chilling work of Japanese gangster cinema.
- 13
Shinjuku Triad Society
Ren Osugi, Tomorowo Taguchi, Kippei ShiinaTakashi Miike's directorial debut is a gritty, hard-hitting exploration of Japan's criminal underworld that doesn't shy away from taboo subject matter. Centered around a detective's obsessive pursuit of a ruthless gang leader, the film plunges viewers into a world of violence, depravity, and corruption as its characters navigate the dangerous streets of Tokyo's Shinjuku district. Disturbing and provocative, Shinjuku Triad Society is not for the faint of heart but well worth the watch for fans of edgy Yakuza films.
- #78 of 103 onThe Best Movies About Brothers
- #56 of 74 onThe Best Japanese Action Movies of All Time
- #107 of 114 onThe Best R-Rated Japanese Movies
- 14Beat Kitano, Maiko Kawakami, Makoto Ashikawa
A hard-hitting story about a rogue police officer taking on Tokyo's criminal underworld single-handedly, this film marks Takeshi Kitano's impressive directorial debut. Filled with brutal violence and gripping scenes of tension, Violent Cop delivers a devastating portrait of a man pushed to the brink by personal loss and professional corruption. Edgy, raw, and unrelenting, this is one crime drama you won't want to miss.
- 15Shintaro Katsu, Shigeru Amachi, Eijirô Yanagi
The original 1962 classic, The Tale of Zatoichi introduces us to the iconic blind swordsman who becomes entangled in the violent world of the Yakuza after being hired as a bodyguard by a local gang leader. Directed by Kenji Misumi, this seminal film expertly balances thrilling swordplay, poignant character development, and an exploration of the fragile bonds that exist within the criminal underworld. The beginning of a beloved franchise spanning numerous films and television adaptations, The Tale of Zatoichi is an essential starting point for any fan of Japanese cinema.
- 16Bunta Sugawara, Akira Kobayashi
The conclusion to Kinji Fukasaku's groundbreaking five-part series sees the saga of post-WWII Yakuza warfare come to a gripping, bloody end. Packed with explosive action sequences, sudden betrayals, and memorable characters, this final chapter brings the iconic series to a fitting close while still leaving plenty of room for reflection on the dark side of human nature. A worthy finale for one of Japan's most acclaimed cinematic achievements.
- 17Naoto Takenaka, Ren Osugi, Show Aikawa
Takashi Miike's concluding entry in his Black Society trilogy follows three friends who get involved with the Yakuza in an effort to escape their downtrodden lives. As they become ensnared in the criminal underworld, their struggle for survival pushes them to desperate measures. Ley Lines showcases Miike's signature blend of brutality and humanity, culminating in a thrilling, heart-wrenching crescendo.
- 18
Yakuza Graveyard
Nagisa Oshima, Hideo Murota, Meiko KajiA hard-boiled detective becomes embroiled in a violent struggle between rival Yakuza gangs due to his unscrupulous methods and tangled personal life. Directed by Kinji Fukasaku, this gritty film delves deep into the corruption and brutality of Japan's criminal underworld with an unblinking realism that leaves a lasting impression. Yakuza Graveyard is a must-watch for fans of Japanese crime cinema.
- 19Jared Leto, Tadanobu Asano, Rory Cochrane
A gritty and atmospheric exploration of loyalty and vengeance set against the backdrop of Japan's criminal underworld, The Outsider follows an American ex-GI who becomes embroiled in the violent world of the Yakuza after saving a gangster's life. Featuring compelling performances from Jared Leto and Tadanobu Asano, this Netflix-produced thriller brings a fresh perspective to the Yakuza genre and offers a riveting glimpse into the complex web of honor and treachery that defines these criminal organizations.
More The Outsider- #52 of 71 onThe Best Netflix Original Movies Of 2018, Ranked
- #160 of 307 onThe 300+ Best Netflix Original Movies Of All Time
- #52 of 55 onThe Best Netflix Original Action Movies
- 20Seijun Suzuki, Eimei Esumi, Misako Watanabe
Famed director Seijun Suzuki delivers a stylish and kinetic tale of double-crosses and deception in this groundbreaking Yakuza film. The story follows a mysterious drifter who infiltrates two rival gangs to pit them against each other and avenge the death of a friend. With its vivid colors, rapid-fire pacing, and striking visuals, Youth of the Beast captures the frenetic energy of Tokyo's criminal underworld and set the stage for a new wave of innovative Japanese gangster cinema.
- 21Masataka Kubota, Nao Ōmori, Shōta Sometani
Takashi Miike once again weaves together heart-pounding action with a touching human story in this rollercoaster ride through Tokyo's dangerous underbelly. When a young boxer and a prostitute find themselves caught in the crossfire between warring Yakuza factions, they must rely on each other to survive the night. Bursting with adrenaline-pumping sequences and moments of surprising tenderness, First Love is a testament to Miike's skill as a filmmaker.
- 22Beat Kitano, Hisashi Igawa, Yuriko Ishida
Takeshi Kitano's second feature film is a darkly comedic exploration of the seamy underside of Japan's organized crime world. As a hapless young baseball player finds himself caught between his violent teammates and a sadistic Yakuza boss, Boiling Point deftly balances moments of brutal violence with flashes of absurdist humor. Offering a contrasting look at both the mundane realities and blood-soaked excesses of mob life, this quirky crime caper is sure to entertain and surprise in equal measure.
- 23Beat Kitano, Tadanobu Asano, Akira Emoto
This visually stunning samurai epic from visionary filmmaker Takeshi Kitano reimagines the classic tale of the blind swordsman Zatoichi for a modern audience. As our protagonist becomes entangled in a bitter feud between rival Yakuza clans, he uses his uncanny skills to restore justice to their corrupt world. Merging breathtaking action sequences with dark humor and a heartfelt exploration of honor, loyalty, and redemption, Zatōichi is a masterful blend of traditional Japanese storytelling and contemporary filmmaking techniques.
More Zatōichi- #3 of 14 on14 Great Blind Characters Who Don't Need Sight To Handle Their Business
- #262 of 365 onThe 300+ Best Action Movies Ever Made
- #41 of 76 onThe 75+ Best Samurai Movies Of All Time
- 24Shinya Tsukamoto, Tadanobu Asano, Susumu Terajima
Easily one of the most controversial and graphic films ever made, Takashi Miike's Ichi the Killer is not for the faint-hearted. A brutal and twisted exploration of violence, sexuality, and sadomasochism within Japan's criminal underworld, this shocking film centers on a deranged hitman whose murderous alter ego emerges when his sexual urges are triggered. Though certainly not easy viewing, Ichi the Killer will leave an indelible mark on all who dare to experience it.
More Ichi the Killer- #250 of 425 onThe Greatest Movies in World Cinema History
- #34 of 45 onGreat Movies with a Neon Aesthetic
- #78 of 115 onThe Goriest Horror Movies Ever Made (2023 Update)
- 25Robert Mitchum, Ken Takakura, Brian Keith
A gripping fusion of American noir sensibilities and Japanese gangster cinema, The Yakuza offers an outsider's perspective on Japan's criminal underworld. Starring Robert Mitchum as a private eye reluctantly drawn into the world of organized crime after his friend's daughter is kidnapped, this film sees Western morality and Yakuza honor codes collide in a gripping tale of vengeance and betrayal. Directed by Sydney Pollack, The Yakuza is a stylish and engaging cross-cultural collaboration that deserves a spot on any cinephile's watchlist.
- 26Toshiro Mifune, Takashi Shimura, Chishū Ryū
This tense, gripping thriller from legendary director Akira Kurosawa is a biting indictment of corporate corruption and its intersections with organized crime. With its compelling story and masterful pacing, The Bad Sleep Well offers a unique perspective on the Yakuza genre by shifting the focus from traditional mobsters to the world of white-collar criminals. A must-watch for anyone seeking both entertainment and insight into Japan's darker side.
- 27Michael Douglas, Andy Garcia, Ken Takakura
This slick, stylish crime thriller from director Ridley Scott follows two New York City cops who find themselves embroiled in the shadowy world of Japanese organized crime after they inadvertently extradite a notorious Yakuza boss. With its cinematic visuals and pulsating action sequences, Black Rain is a high-octane ride through the neon-lit streets of Osaka that showcases the darker side of Japan's criminal underworld. Featuring standout performances from Michael Douglas and Andy Garcia, this gripping tale of honor, corruption, and retribution is an essential watch for any Yakuza film enthusiast.
- 28Reiko Ike, Kunie Tanaka, Hajime Hana
Kinji Fukasaku's original 1975 classic delves deep into the violent and unpredictable world of Japan's criminal underbelly, chronicling the rise and fall of a reckless Yakuza enforcer. Unflinching in its portrayal of brutality and inhumanity, Graveyard of Honor serves as a powerful indictment of mob culture and a disturbing study of human depravity. This hard-hitting crime drama will leave you questioning the true cost of loyalty and ambition.
- 29
Sympathy for the Underdog
Ken Takakura, Kōji Tsuruta, Noboru AndoThis underrated gem from director Kinji Fukasaku tells the story of a group of veteran gangsters exiled to Okinawa who decide to take one last stand against their powerful rivals. Filled with suspenseful confrontations and intense action scenes, Sympathy for the Underdog offers a moving tribute to the bonds of brotherhood that exist among even the most hardened criminals. A must-see for fans seeking an underappreciated classic in Japanese gangster cinema.
- 30Takashi Miike, Renji Ishibashi, Hirotaro Honda
Takashi Miike's reinterpretation of Kinji Fukasaku's 1975 classic retains the same raw, visceral energy but updates it for a new generation. This brutal tale of a Yakuza enforcer's descent into madness showcases Miike's flair for explosive violence and unrelenting darkness, making for a harrowing viewing experience that's not for the faint-hearted. With its slick direction and high-octane action sequences, this remake holds its own amongst an extensive lineup of Yakuza cinema.
