All 24 Akira Emoto Movies In Order — All The Best (And Worst) Films To Watch Online

Beverly Montgomery
9 min readJun 19, 2024

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Get ready to dive into the world of Akira Emoto’s movies with this roundup article! From heartwarming dramas to action-packed thrillers, we’ve got you covered. Join us as we explore some of the most memorable and well-loved films featuring this talented actor.

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1. Submersion of Japan (1973)

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Submersion of Japan, originally titled Nihon chinbotsu, is a thrilling and captivating catastrophe adventure set in the year 1973. This action-packed, drama-driven science fiction film portrays a harrowing disaster that unfolds as Japan gradually descends into the ocean’s depths, culminating in an enormous catastrophe. The movie centers around a crucial collaboration between the United States and Japan, as they work together tirelessly to prevent this impending calamity.

2. Round About Midnight (1999)

“Round About Midnight” (1999) is a thrilling Japanese movie that follows the story of Koji, a jazz musician who takes a break at a Tokyo nightclub. After witnessing a murder and saving a girl named Linda from the killers, Koji and Linda find themselves on the run from the police and the hitmen.

3. Ikitai (1999)

Experience the heart-wrenching drama of Ikitai, a 1999 film directed by Kaneto Shindô. Based on the ancient story of The Ballad of Narayama, Ikitai updates the plot to modern times, offering a powerful commentary on society and family dynamics. Watch as a parent’s life hangs in the balance, forced into an old people’s home, and the profound impact it has on both the family and community.

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4. The City of Lost Souls (2000)

Experience the riveting, edge-of-your-seat thrills of “The City of Lost Souls, “ a 2000 Japanese crime drama directed by renowned filmmaker Takashi Miike. When Brazilian-Japanese Mario is finally released from jail, he embarks on a risky journey to save his stunning Chinese girlfriend, Kei, from the imminent threat of deportation to Japan.

5. Umbrella Flower (2000)

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“Umbrella Flower, “ also known as “Kaza-hana, “ is a visually stunning Japanese drama film from 2000 that follows the journey of one government employee and the hostess of a “pink club” in Tokyo. As the two characters navigate the challenging world of love, betrayal, and survival, they weave an intricate tale of passion that transcends social norms. The film, directed by Shinji Sômai, artfully explores the boundaries between prostitution and authentic connection amidst the backdrop of a rapidly changing urban landscape.

6. Onmyoji: The Yin Yang Master (2001)

Onmyoji: The Yin Yang Master — an enchanting blend of ancient mysticism and modern swordsmanship unfolds amidst the backdrop of 17th century Japan. As Hiromasa, the steadfast samurai, crosses paths with the elusive fortune teller, Seimei, a saga of power, deceit, and mystic energies emerges.

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7. September 11 (2002)

September 11, also known as 11'09'’01 — September 11, is a unique drama film that explores the profound effects of the 9/11 terrorist attacks through the lens of different perspectives from around the world. Directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu, Youssef Chahine, and Amos Gitai, this powerful film showcases the tragic day in 2001 that changed the world forever.

8. The Blind Swordsman: Zatoichi (2003)

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“The Blind Swordsman: Zatoichi” takes audiences on an electrifying journey into the world of the famed blind Japanese samurai. Brought to life by the brilliant direction of Takeshi Kitano and accompanied with a stunning soundtrack, this high-energy film is a masterful fusion of action, comedy, and crime.

9. Riyû (2004)

Riyû, also known as “Four People Killed, No Connection”, is a 2004 Japanese film that falls under the categories of crime, drama, and mystery. This gripping film, directed by Nobuhiko Ôbayashi and penned by the talented trio of Miyuki Miyabe, Fumio Ishimori, and Ôbayashi himself, has left an indelible mark on its viewers. The movie centers around a string of gruesome murders in an apartment complex that appear to have no connection between the victims.

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10. Zebraman (2004)

Get ready for a wild ride as down-and-out school teacher, Tatsu Amano, uncovers his true identity as the real-life incarnation of the legendary television superhero, Zebraman. This outrageous action-comedy film by renowned director Takashi Miike challenges the traditional superhero formula, swapping caped crimefighters for an everyman hero.

11. The Great Yokai War (2005)

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Set sail for an exhilarating journey filled with enigmatic spirits and fabled creatures as “The Great Yokai War” whisks you away to a realm steeped in magic. Here, a young boy is entrusted with the role of a righteous protector, commanding a squadron of Japan’s mythical figures in an epic battle against evil forces.

12. Kiraware Matsuko no isshô (2006)

“Kiraware Matsuko no isshô,” released in 2006, offers a profound and enlightening depiction of familial relationships. As the audience delves into the film, they are introduced to the secretive life of the main character, Matsuko — a forgotten outcast whose life was a peculiar mix of intrigue and tragedy.

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13. Prodigy (2007)

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Prodigy, known as Shindô in Japan, is a captivating drama film released in 2007. The movie highlights the life of a unique 13-year-old child named Naruse Uta, portrayed by Narumi Riko.

14. Happy Flight (2008)

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Embark on a thrilling journey of comedy and camaraderie in the movie “Happy Flight” (originally titled “Happî furaito. “) Released in 2008, this feel-good film showcases the vast array of roles that combine to make a single unforgettable flight. From pilots and flight attendants to ground crews, mechanics, and the ever-important bird patrol crew, they all share one common mission: ensuring the safety and satisfaction of the passengers.

15. Gururi no koto (2008)

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“Gururi no koto” is a captivating Japanese drama film directed by Ryosuke Hashiguchi and written by the same talented individual. Set in 1993, the story revolves around Kanao and Shoko, a couple living in Tokyo, who anticipate the arrival of their first child. Although both have pursued artistic careers, their present-day lives are vastly different. Kanao works as a shoe repairman, while Shoko is employed in a publishing company. Their relationship is marked by various confrontations and conflicts, especially when it comes to matters of regimentation, such as their attempts to regulate their sex life with a calendar.

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16. Ichi (2008)

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Ichi is a thrilling Japanese action-drama film released in 2008. This captivating movie centers around the life of Ichi, a blind but skilled Japanese swordswoman, who wields her expertise to protect her town from the dangerous world of yakuza and other villains. Ichi’s exceptional talents in playing the shamisen, a three-stringed Japanese guitar, add an intriguing blend of culture and artistry to her character.

17. Rain Fall (2009)

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Rain Fall is an intense and captivating action film that takes the audience on an exhilarating journey. Set in 2009, the movie follows Kippei Shîna, a skilled hitman, as he faces off against ruthless CIA assassins, all while protecting the innocent daughter of one of his victims. Fueled by a mix of loyalty, revenge, and an unrelenting sense of justice, Shîna finds himself in the crosshairs of a dangerous game, where every decision has deadly consequences.

18. John Rabe (2009)

John Rabe (2009) is a gripping, true-story drama that delves into the brave acts of a German businessman who defied the odds during the horrific Nanjing massacre of 1937–38. As the film explores the Japanese occupation of China, it’s anchored by Ulrich Tukur’s gripping portrayal of Rabe, a man who ultimately saved more than 200,000 Chinese from the brutalities of war. The film, directed by Florian Gallenberger, navigates through a tumultuous historical era with finesse, inviting viewers to bear witness to the unimaginable. The ensemble cast of Daniel Brühl and Steve Buscemi, alongside their powerful performances, adds depth to the storytelling. It’s a film that will keep you on the edge of your seat, providing an unforgettable cinematic experience that intertwines biography, drama, and history.

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19. Heaven’s Story (2010)

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Heaven’s Story, originally titled “Heaven’s Story” in Japanese, is a captivating drama film released in 2010. Directed by Takahisa Zeze and written by Yûki Satô, the movie tells the tale of lost souls in search of retribution and redemption. This modern epic masterfully weaves together multiple suburban stories, creating a poignant narrative that is both powerful and thought-provoking.

20. Shin Godzilla (2016)

Shin Godzilla, a 2016 Japanese action, drama, and horror film, plunges Japan into chaos as it confronts the appearance of a colossal monster. Featuring an all-star Japanese cast and directed by Hideaki Anno and Shinji Higuchi, the film is a highly regarded revitalization of the Godzilla franchise.

21. Mukoku (2017)

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“Mukoku” (2017) is a captivating Japanese drama featuring a story of transformation and determination. A young man named Kengo Yatabe, whose father is in a coma and whose mother has recently passed away, struggles to find meaning in his life. However, everything changes when he meets the ambitious Tooru Kengo, who inspires him to rediscover his passion for kendo, a traditional Japanese martial art.

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22. Lu Over the Wall (2017)

“Lu Over the Wall,” a captivating animated adventure comedy, introduces the tale of Kai, a middle school student residing in a small, secluded hamlet. This young lad’s life makes a remarkable turn when he comes across Lu, a mermaid possessing a cell phone capable of fulfilling wishes. As Kai and his pals embark on various adventures with Lu, they unveil concealed mysteries about their village and forge once-in-a-lifetime connections with the mermaid and her kinfolk.

23. Oz Land (2018)

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“Oz Land” (2018), an exhilarating adventure, transports audiences to a one-of-a-kind amusement park. Here, Kurumi, a gifted young lady, is recruited to work in a well-respected hotel but unexpectedly ends up at a quaint country fair, intertwined with the hotel’s business connections. Driven to carve her own niche, Kurumi seeks advice from the seasoned Yoshiko.

24. Evil and the Mask (2018)

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“Evil and the Mask” is a chilling Japanese crime drama, released in 2018. The story revolves around Kuki Fumihiro, a son from a wealthy zaibatsu family, who is raised by his father to become pure evil. After he kills his father to protect his adopted sister, Kaori, Kuki disappears, only to resurface under a new identity — Koichi Shintani.

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