Japan is famous for its rich, vibrant culture, diverse ethnicity, and fusion of foods. A country that welcomes everyone with open arms. Especially known for its contribution to lifestyle and art. Moreover, the Japanese cinema field has evolved along with the technology. Let us look at a few series that have left a remarkable impression on the audience’s minds for their compelling storylines.
House of Ninjas
It is a story that holds the lost tradition intact. This enthralling series, directed by Dave Boyle and Kento Kaku, blends slick action, emotional depth, and traditional ninja lore into a compelling modern drama. Meanwhile, the story provides a detailed outlook of the Tawara family and their struggle to uphold the lost traditions while overcoming the challenges in their path. The plot intensifies upon the death of their loved one; it ultimately leads them to confront a rival clan, which is a threat to Japan.
The series also sheds light on the complexities within the Tawara family, including their haunted memories from the past that are affecting their present lives. The leading characters include Kento Kaku, Yōsuke Eguchi, Tae Kimura, Kengo Kora, Aju Makita, Nobuko Miyamoto, and Riho Yoshioka. Throughout the series, their performances amplify the grandeur. Released on February 15, 2024, the series marked a notable entry in Netflix’s growing catalog of international action dramas.
Switched
Switched is a perfect blend of romance and drama. With an underlying theme of social anxiety and depression, this series focuses on a body swap between two teenage girls, Ayumi and Zenko. As these two characters take up the center stage, all the remaining characters move along with them. Typically, based on the Japanese Manga series, director Hiroaki Matsuyama reinterprets the source material for the screen while preserving its core themes and tone.
The plot intensifies when Zenko commits suicide, leaving Ayumi devastated. The twist arises when each person finds themselves in the other’s body through a body swap. However, this twist uncovers the real reason behind suicide. Released on August 1, 2018, the series follows a gripping tale of mystery and friendship.
Alice in Borderland
While it may sound similar to Alice in Wonderland, it is not. It is based on a Manga series, but the director has retained all the unique elements to make this series special. Here, a technology-led game takes the centre spot. Directed by Shinsuke Sato and starring Kento Yamazaki as Arisu and Tao Tsuchiya as Yuzuha Usagi. The main plot begins with a disillusioned Arisu finding himself in a parallel universe of Tokyo, where he and his friends must participate in deadly games to survive.
Moreover, each game presents a different challenge, the outcome of which could lead to death. Released on December 10, 2020, the series combines thriller, survival drama, and mystery elements. It also showcases the characters’ nerve-wracking journey, overcoming physical and emotional challenges. After a consecutive success of two seasons, the third season is yet to be released in September 2025.
Followers
This series is set against the backdrop of Tokyo, famous for its city’s buzz, hues, and lifestyle. It is a story focused on two female leads: Limi Nara, a top-notch fashion photographer, excels at capturing modern Tokyo and its people; excels with an alpha-dominant personality, and the other, Natsume Hyakuta, a young actress, struggles with low self-esteem. The plot takes a different turn when Limi shares a photo of Natsume on Instagram, which creates a wave in Natsume’s life.
As these two women try to protect their jobs and social status, they begin to confront their insecurities and desires, ultimately learning important lessons about self-worth and identity. Directed by Mika Ninagawa, starring Miki Nakatani and Elaiza Ikeda in the lead roles. It was released on February 27, 2020, and the series is still in the top spot.
Chastity High
Chatity High is a teen drama series created by three directors: Soushi Matsumoto, Yuka Yasukawa, and Ryo Ota. It focuses on a girl, Ichika Arisawa, played by Ai Mikami, who blackmails other students who engage in romantic relationships. However, as the story proceeds, she becomes entangled in a complex relationship, leading to emotional breakdown and unexpected situations that affect her personally. The series was praised for its special story with different thoughts, and all the characters did justice to their roles. Released on August 29, 2024, this series, till today, is at the top of the chart in the teen-drama genre.
Written By: Tejaswini Prasad