All 24 Ryuhei Kitamura Movies
Welcome to our movie roundup article featuring the works of Ryuhei Kitamura, a renowned Japanese filmmaker known for his unique style and captivating storytelling. In this article, we’ll be exploring some of his most celebrated films, discussing their impact on the industry, and sharing our thoughts on what makes them a must-watch. So sit back, relax, and get ready for an exciting journey through the world of Ryuhei Kitamura movies!
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1. Versus (2000)
Step into a world of horrifying action and suspense with the film “Versus” from 2000. Unravel the enigma of 666 hidden portals that connect two realms, as the story centers around a secret door hidden in the lush Japanese forest of resurrection.
2. Alive (2002)
In the action-packed horror film “Alive” (2002), Tenshu, a survivor of his own execution, finds himself at the mercy of the twisted experiments conducted by the cruel prison officials. As he endures the unthinkable, Tenshu’s resilience is put to the test in a battle of mortal combat against an otherworldly enemy.
3. Jam Films (2002)
“Jam Films” is a wild and exhilarating anthology of short films that will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions and laughter. Directed by Daizaburo Hanada, Jôji Iida, and Shunji Iwai, this Japanese cinematic journey offers a unique blend of comedy, drama, and fantasy that will leave you captivated.
4. Sky High (2002)
In the heart-stopping Action-Adventure film, Sky High (2002), a dedicated detective is on the hunt for a ruthless serial killer who removes the hearts of young girls, leaving behind only the grim signature of their black long hair. The grim shadow of this chilling vigilante leaves the detective’s own fiancée as its latest victim.
5. Aragami (2003)
A thrilling blend of action, fantasy, and horror, Aragami transport you to a world where the line between myth and reality blurs. Starring the likes of Takao Osawa and Masaya Katô, the film centers on the electrifying sword fight between a raging god of battle and a skilled samurai duke. Set in a remote temple, the characters engage in a series of high-stakes duels that test their strength, strategy, and will to survive.
6. Battlefield Baseball (2003)
Battlefield Baseball is an intense and thrilling action-comedy that takes the classic game of baseball and turns it on its head. Set in a world where baseball is a life-or-death sport, the Gedo High team is made up of blue-faced zombies, and their opponents from Seido High know they have no chance of winning unless they can retrieve a star pitcher with the lethal pitch called the Super Tornado.
7. Azumi (2003)
Azumi, a powerful and captivating action-adventure film from Japan, is the story of a gifted teenage ninja girl named Azumi. Trained to master the art of cold-blooded death, Azumi is a formidable force to be reckoned with, possessing unrivaled swordsmanship and stealth skills.
9. Godzilla: Final Wars (2004)
In the epic conclusion to a fiftieth-anniversary event, Godzilla returns in “Final Wars, “ the ultimate Kaiju battle royale. This time, it’s not just about the big green lizard’s old foes — it’s a global quest to face all allies and adversaries, as well as an enigmatic new monster named Monster X.
10. Sakurajima (2004)
“Sakurajima” is a fascinating and immersive documentary from the year 2004. Directed by Ryûhei Kitamura, this captivating film takes us on a journey through the stunning world of music and the arts. While the plot and tagline are intentionally left unspecified, one thing is for certain: Sakurajima promises to be a visually and musically mesmerizing experience.
11. The Death Game on the Yamanote Line (2005)
The Death Game on the Yamanote Line, released in 2005, is a thrilling Japanese action movie directed by Shôichirô Masumoto. Starring Kôsei Amano, Akiko Monô, and Karin Akiyama, the film follows the high-stakes adventures of a group of passengers trapped on a seemingly ordinary train journey through Tokyo.
12. LoveDeath (2006)
“LoveDeath” is a high-octane action thriller from 2006, directed by the masterful Ryûhei Kitamura. Set on the chilling, fateful day known as ‘Chrysalis’, the fate of the protagonists as well as everyone in their lives all hangs in the balance, depending solely on how they choose to spend it. The intense story follows an enigmatic, violent man named Sai, with a soft, pure heart, and a captivatingly beautiful playgirl named Sheila.
13. Ren’ai shousetsu (2006)
In the heart of Japan, a touching love story unfolds through the pages of a novel called “Ren’ai shousetsu. “ Directed by Ryûhei Kitamura and Etsushi Toyokawa, this intriguing film captures the essence of romance as it delves into the lives of its characters.
14. Yoroi: Samurai zonbi (2008)
Step into the world of Yoroi: Samurai Zombie, a thrilling Japanese horror film from 2008. The plot centers around a family who find themselves kidnapped by a ruthless couple armed to the teeth. As they struggle to escape the dangerous situation, they are led deep into the heart of the woods, where they are faced with hordes of undead samurais.
15. The Midnight Meat Train (2008)
“The Midnight Meat Train” is a thrilling horror film that delves into the dark underbelly of a city’s subway system. Directed by Ryûhei Kitamura and released in 2008, this tale of terror centers around a photographer who becomes ensnared in the deadly game of a late-night butcher. As he captures gritty images for an art gallery, the protagonist unwittingly stumbles upon the killer’s gruesome secret. The story unfolds with an eerie sense of dread as the protagonist follows the trail of victims, each more horrifically butchered than the last. The film masterfully explores themes of obsession and the darkness that lurks beneath the surface of society. Accompanied by strong performances from stars such as Vinnie Jones and Bradley Cooper, “The Midnight Meat Train” is a spine-chilling, edge-of-your-seat ride through the shadows of the city. With a runtime of 100 minutes and an R rating, this visceral piece of cinema has garnered both critical praise and a dedicated fan following. Those who enjoy psychological horror and tense, atmospheric storytelling will find much to appreciate in “The Midnight Meat Train, “ which has been compared to such horror classics as “The Collector, “ “The Collection, “ and “Wolf Creek. “
In summary, “The Midnight Meat Train” is a haunting and suspenseful journey through the darkest corners of the human mind. For fans of the genre, this film is an unmissable gem that delivers equal parts chills and shock, capturing the essence of what makes a truly great horror movie.
16. Hellgate (2011)
“Hellgate” is an eerie and unsettling journey of a Western businessman, his Thai wife, and son who find themselves lost in a shadow world between life and death after a harrowing car accident during a trip to Bangkok. As their lives intertwine with the chilling realm of endless darkness, they must learn to navigate the terrors of the afterlife in this mesmerizing blend of drama, fantasy, and horror.
17. Calibre 9 (2011)
In the neo-noir thriller Calibre 9, naïve urban planner Yann stumbles upon a 9mm handgun with a dark past. The weapon, once owned by the soul of Sarah, a murdered prostitute, leads Yann into a dangerous game of retribution. Together, they embark on a quest for justice, vigilantly eliminating the city’s corrupt criminals one by one, including the powerful mayor at the helm of the corruption. This gritty action-packed drama takes viewers on a suspenseful journey through a city plagued by greed and deception, questioning the boundaries of morality and the true meaning of power.
18. No One Lives (2012)
In the thrilling 2012 horror-thriller “No One Lives”, a notorious gang of highway killers kidnap a wealthy couple on a cross-country trip, only to discover that their prey is more cunning than they anticipated. This nail-biting journey, directed by Ryûhei Kitamura and written by David Cohen, keeps audiences on edge as characters are murdered one by one in a series of shocking twists.
19. Lupin the 3rd (2014)
“Lupin the 3rd, “ a 2014 live-action adaptation of the classic anime series, brings together a team of skilled burglars to steal a precious Cleopatran necklace. The protagonist, Lupin III, is the grandson of a notorious gentleman burglar and faces challenges from an ex-ally, an underworld tycoon, and other threats. Directed by Ryûhei Kitamura and written by Monkey Punch, Mataichirô Yamamoto, and Kitamura himself, this action-packed, comedic film stars Shun Oguri, Jerry Yan, and Tetsuji Tamayama.
20. Downrange (2017)
“Downrange” is a bone-chilling 2018 horror-thriller that reels in viewers with its high-octane energy and nerve-wracking tension. Directed by Ryûhei Kitamura and written by Kitamura and Joey O’Bryan, the movie centers on a group of friends who find themselves at the mercy of an unseen sniper after a tire blowout leaves them stranded on the side of the road. With each calculated shot, the sniper turns their roadside misfortune into a terrifying game of survival.
21. Nightmare Cinema (2018)
Nightmare Cinema is a 2018 horror thriller featuring five strangers who gather at a mysterious, haunted theater. Owned by the enigmatic Projectionist, the audience witnesses five terrifying tales, each showcasing their deepest fears and innermost secrets. As the viewers become increasingly unnerved, their worst nightmares materialize on the big screen. Directed by Alejandro Brugués, Joe Dante, and Mick Garris, this anthology film features a star-studded cast, including Mickey Rourke, Sarah Elizabeth Withers, and Faly Rakotohavana. With a chilling blend of drama, horror, and mystery, Nightmare Cinema leaves viewers questioning reality as they experience an unforgettable cinematic journey into the depths of the human psyche.
22. The Doorman (2020)
“The Doorman, “ directed by Ryûhei Kitamura, is a gripping action-packed thriller set in New York City. Ruby Rose stars as a woman who recently returned from combat and befriends a family struggling to make ends meet. As they welcome her into their lives, they are unaware that a dangerous criminal gang plans to steal their valuables. Their only hope lies in the newcomer’s hands. This intense drama takes viewers on a rollercoaster ride filled with violence, intrigue, and suspense. The film features a blend of action and drama scenes that push the boundaries of the thriller genre. The cinematic experience is further amplified by the high-octane action sequences and outstanding performances from the talented cast. Ruby Rose’s resilient character shows strength and determination, standing up against evil forces that threaten the family’s safety. The film also stars Jean Reno as the patriarch of the family, Aksel Hennie as the love interest, and other well-known actors in supporting roles. “The Doorman” offers a thrilling cinematic experience that will leave you on the edge of your seat. With a mix of action, drama, and suspense, this movie is a showcase of adrenaline-pumping moments that keep audiences engaged until the very end. Overall, this film is a must-watch for fans of action and thriller movies who are looking for a heart-stopping experience. With an IMDb rating of 4.7 from more than 7,995 votes, “The Doorman” packs a powerful punch that will captivate you from beginning to end.
23. Three Sisters of Tenmasou (2022)
“Three Sisters of Tenmasou” is a drama, directed by Ryûhei Kitamura, and written by Ureha Shimada and Tsutomu Takahashi. The movie stars Non, Mugi Kadowaki, and Riku Hagiwara and is set in Japan, where the characters navigate the complexities of their relationships as they journey towards self-discovery.
24. The Price We Pay (2022)
The Price We Pay, a nail-biting 2022 thriller by Ryûhei Kitamura, takes its audience on a rollercoaster of tension, action, and horror. Set for a release on 2023–01–10, the anticipated film is slated for an adult audience, with an ‘R’ rating.