Movies have always been our primary source of entertainment. Be it a romance movie, a full action-packed thriller, or a light-hearted comedy, a good movie is bound to put you in a good mood. When you're having a bad day, a good light-hearted Comedy movie feels like a warm hug from a loved one. They offer a delightful escape from reality. They remind us not to take life too seriously and find joy in everyday things. Comedy movies have the power to overcome cultural barriers and bring people together. If you are also looking for such an escape, here are the Top 10 Japanese Comedy Movies.
1. Tampopo
Tampopo is a Japanese comedy film that was released in 1985. This satirical comedy has become a cult classic and is often regarded as one of the best Japanese movies. The movie follows the story of Tampopo, the widowed owner of the struggling business, Lai Lai. The film revolves around the hunt for the perfect bowl of ramen and follows Tampopo's culinary journey. The narrative cleverly blends food and humor into a delightful and unique film. Following the success of the movie, many ramen restaurants worldwide have been named Tampopo.
2. The Family Game
Released in 1983, The Family Game is a dark-comedy movie. The film explores the dynamics within a dysfunctional nuclear family. The story revolves around the Numata family, where the Father, Kosuke, hires a private tutor, Yoshimoto, for his son, Shigeyuki, who is doing poorly in school. As the story progresses, the flaws and dysfunctionalities of the family are brought forward. The film is known for its realistic portrayal of the Japanese Family and received positive acclaim from critics.
3. Waterboys
Waterboys is a Japanese comedy film that was released in 2001. The film revolves around five high school boys who unexpectedly form a synchronized swimming team. The film combines themes of humor, friendship, and determination. The film is known for its energetic storytelling, filled with humorous moments that uplift and motivate us. It is a light-hearted and feel-good film, perfect for a movie night with your friends and family.
4. Fine, Totally Fine
This 2008 released film is about two friends who fall in love with the same girl. Teruo Tooyama and his friend Hisanobu Komori fall in love with the same girl Akari Kinoshita. The three socially awkward individuals navigate through humourous and awkward situations to achieve their dreams and overcome their challenges. Fine, Totally Fine" won the Audience Award at the 2008 New York Asian Film Festival.
5. Shall We Dance?
This 1996 romantic-comedy film was one of the top-grossing Japanese films of the year. The movie stars Kōji Yakusho, Tamiyo Kusakari, Naoto Takenaka, Eriko Watanabe, and others. The movie follows the story of Shohei Sugiyama, a middle-aged salaryman who, dissatisfied with his mundane life, becomes intrigued by a woman he sees in a dance studio window. On a whim, he signs up for ballroom dance lessons and embarks on a journey of self-discovery, romance, and personal transformation. The movie was a huge commercial success and gained international recognition.
6. Adrift In Tokyo
This 2007 Comedy drama film is based on a novel by Yoshinaga Fujita. The movie follows the story of Fumiya Takemura, a law student with no friends and family but a huge debt. Aiichiro Fukuhara, a debt collector, offers to pay Takemura's debt if he accompanies him on a trip across Tokyo. It is a quirky and delightful movie. The movie won Best Script at the Fantasia International Film Festival.
7. Instant Swamp
Written and Directed by Satoshi Miki, Instant Swamp is a 2009 comedy movie. The movie follows the story of Haname Jinchoge, a quirky young woman who, after finding herself jobless, sets out to find her father. Her father is an antiquities shop owner. After meeting her Father, Haname discovers that she has a knack for selling things and decides to become a shopkeeper herself. The movie explores the theme of a father-daughter relationship.
8. Princess Jellyfish
Directed by Taisuke Kawamura, Princess Jellyfish is a 2014 romantic comedy. The film follows the story of Tsukimi Kurashita, an illustrator and jellyfish fanatic who is not very confident and hesitates around men and attractive people. Tsukimi lives in the communal apartment of Amamizu Kan, alongside other Otaku women. She meets a cross-dresser Kuranosuke Koibuchi, a rich heir. Kuranosuke encourages Tsukimi to come out of her shell and helps her improve her appearance. Princess Jellyfish is a fun and entertaining movie.
9. The Happiness Of The Katakuris
Directed by Takashi Miike, The Happiness of the Katakuris is a musical horror comedy that was released in 2001. The film follows the story of the Katakuri family, which manages a mountain inn. However, under the circumstances, their guests end up dying by suicide, accident, or murder, and they have to cover up the deaths. "The Happiness of the Katakuris" is a satirical take on family dynamics and the pursuit of happiness. If you are a fan of dark comedy and musicals, then this movie is perfect for you.
10. Hula Girls
Directed by Sang-il Lee, Hula Girls is a Japanese movie released in 2006. The film is about a group of Japanese girls who learn hula dancing and use it to save their mining town, Iwaki. The movie was a major hit and received positive reviews. Hula Girls was nominated for 12 awards at the 2007 Japan Academy Awards. The film won five major awards at the 2007 Japan Academy Awards, including Best Screenplay and Best Director.
