Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai

Miike proves he doesn't need gore to tell a tremendous story with a powerful message. Amazing. 4.5/5

Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai on Netflix

Map of the Sounds of Tokyo

Maybe it was me but I couldn't sink into this as I needed to - it felt long & slow to me. Meh. 3/5

Map of the Sounds of Tokyo on Netflix

Beyond Outrage

This bloody Japanese crime thriller sequel is far better than the original - I can't wait to see how it ends. 4/5

Beyond Outrage on Netflix

Outrage

This Japanese action thriller had a complex chess-like plot but so many characters it got confusing to follow. Still, I was interested enough to want to rent the newly released sequel. Brutally violent and yet cerebral - interesting. 3/5

Outrage on Netflix

13 Assassins

Takashi Miike is at the height of his powers in this epic action adventure. Tarantino - this is how it's done! 4.5/5

13 Assassins on Netflix

Perfect Blue

While I think Netflix oversold this a little, this anime was awfully suspenseful & full of interesting twists. 3.5/5

Perfect Blue on Netflix

The Great Happiness Space

This fascinating documentary about Japan's host boys is continuously evolving, very powerful stuff. 4/5

The Great Happiness Space on Netflix

Vexille

OK idea, big plot holes, beautiful background animation but the characters looked awful. Uncanny valley on display. 2 stars.

Vexille at Netflix