Japanese films have never shied away from openly discussing societal concerns and confronting social prejudices and stigma. Previously, these films were classified as art films because they were not considered part of mainstream cinema. However, such films are now not just deemed mainstream, but also commercially successful. These inventive cinematic renderings demonstrate the enormous impact that art and film can have on our lives. Let's take a look at some of the best Japanese films about social issues that have helped to influence positive societal change.
1. Oshin
Based on a true story, Oshin is a little girl born into an impoverished household in the countryside. The difficulties she encounters as a child begin when she is taken to another home to work as a servant due to her family's financial situation. She patiently endures a sequence of evil occurrences, including a stint in a brothel, and eventually rises to become the successful owner of a supermarket chain.
2. A Litre Of Tears
1 Liter of Tears is a sorrowful story about Kito Aya (Oonishi Asae), a middle school student who discovered she had a rare spinocerebellar degeneration. Spinocerebellar ataxia, also known as ataxia, is a notorious incurable condition that causes a sufferer to gradually lose control of their own body over time, eventually leading to death.
3. Beautiful Life
The realism of every character, even the little ones, makes this narrative so heartbreaking. Shoji is not a romantic hero who rushes in to save the damsel in distress, but rather a pompous and flawed man who harbors lingering affections for his ex-girlfriend, as most normal people do. Kyoko is a helpless damsel. Not because of her disability, she utilizes the wheelchair to define herself and avoid confrontation. They meet and confront many trips and self-improvement decisions together till the end.
4. Dosokai
This mature series has become synonymous with the Japanese LGBTQ+ community. This narrative, which first aired in 1993, is widely regarded as a major hit in Japan due to its fair representation of gay men. Fuma (Masahiko Nishimura) is a gay man who is married to Natsuki. One thing leads to another, and Natsuki soon discovers that her husband is having an affair with another man.
5. The Hours Of My Life
This is a lovely story with a theme of self-improvement and acceptance. The story genuinely explores the complexities of the human mind, its potential to make profound emotional relationships, and its eventual deterioration when confronted with an autoimmune disease. This is a feel-good show that reminds viewers that they can positively improve their thinking and their lives while there is still time.
6. Love Letter (1995)
This touching film depicts the anguish of four young people years after one of them was killed in a horrific climbing accident. This film, lauded for its fantastic winter photography, spends a significant amount of time dealing with bereavement. The protagonists face enormous hurdles as they try to overcome heartbreak and the misunderstandings that it causes.
7. From Me To You
This youthful romantic drama hits every note. Sawako is a sweet but clumsy girl who resembles the creepy main character of the popular horror film Ring, which does not endear her to her peers. She makes friends with a popular new boy and a few other uncomfortable friends, but she clashes with several others. Viewers get to experience the ups and downs of these amusing and fascinating characters as events and relationships intertwine and then disentangle.
8. Let Me Eat Your Pancreas
This film is an adaptation of a web book and manga. It relates to the story of a young man who discovers the silent tragic sickness of one of his school's most popular females. This film and its plot are so popular in many countries that it has been transformed into a beautiful anime that has won numerous awards. This film demonstrates the significance of timing.
9. Your Lie In April
Your Lie in April garnered mixed reviews, with some praising the plot and characters and others criticizing the artwork. The anime version received mostly positive reviews from critics for its plot, animation, and soundtrack. Kaori falls and is hospitalized during a performance, explaining that she is anemic and requires routine testing. She invites Ksei to join her at a gala, but she does not show up. Her health worsens, and she gets depressed. Ksei performs a duet with a friend, which inspires Kaori to try a dangerous and maybe fatal procedure to play with Kosei again.
10. Heavenly Forest
This film depicts the story of a young male pianist with a tragic history and a young woman who plays violin brilliantly and with her flow. Their new connection is complicated not only by their records but also by their intertwined relationships with their friends. This fantastic romance film is excellent viewing for anyone seeking a romantic night. It is both tragic and moving at times.
