All 15 Nanako Matsushima Movies
Get ready to dive into the world of Japanese cinema as we take a look at the versatile and talented Nanako Matsushima’s filmography. From captivating action films to heartwarming dramas, Matsushima has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry. Join us as we explore the diverse range of movies Nanako Matsushima has been a part of and gain insight into her incredible acting journeys.
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1. Fireworks Ferris Wheels and Love (1997)
Sparklers, Ferris Wheels and Heartbeats, previously known as Koi to hanabi to kanransha, is a delightful Japanese drama romance movie released in 1997. The plot revolves around Kunihiko Morihara, a widower who lost his wife eight years ago, and his quest to find love again. Kunihiko accompanies his daughter to her first mixer party, where he encounters a captivating young woman named Fumika. Despite their instant connection, Kunihiko’s shyness due to their age difference creates a barrier for him to express his feelings.
2. The Ring (1998)
“The Ring” is a chilling horror movie about a cursed videotape that has baffled and terrified a small Japanese town for years. Its sinister reputation is based on the tragic tale of Sadako Yamamura, a young girl who, after a failed experiment with a Ouija board, is trapped in a water well for seven days. When Sadako finally emerges, she returns with a vengeance, seeking her revenge on anyone who watches the cursed video.
3. Ring 2 (1999)
In the nail-biting horror sequel “Ring 2, “ Reiko Asakawa takes her son Yôichi into hiding as his terrifying powers become increasingly obvious, while Mai Takano and the authorities desperately search for them to unmask the source of the ominous Ring curse. As the mystery deepens, Sadako’s vengeful spirit prowls in search of new victims to possess. Dive into this spine-tingling supernatural thriller and unravel the dark secrets lurking behind the cursed videotape.
4. Howaitoauto (2000)
In the heat of a snowstorm, a group of terrorists seizes control of Japan’s largest dam, taking the workers as hostages. As the terrorists demand a mind-blowing $5 billion ransom from the government within 24 hours, there seems to be no hope of rescue amidst the harsh blizzard. Lucky for the hostages, one person hadn’t been captured: Toga.
5. Grave of the Fireflies (2005)
Grave of the Fireflies, a heart-wrenching drama released in 2005, is set in the midst of Japan’s struggle during World War II. Based on author Akiyuki Nosaka’s novel, this captivating tale follows an aunt’s unwavering determination to provide for her young niece and nephew amidst the unimaginable hardship.
6. Inugami-ke no ichizoku (2006)
“Inugami-ke no ichizoku, “ Kon Ichikawa’s spellbinding remake of his own 1976 thriller, masterfully unravels a chilling web of deceit, adultery, and insidious greed. As a murder investigation unfolds, the film exposes a shockingly dark and hidden family secret, one that has been carefully woven over years by the enigmatic members of the Inugami clan. Set within the realms of the psychological thriller, this Japanese giallo pays homage to the films of old while staying true to the modern-day psychological suspense genre.
7. Bizan (2007)
When Sakiko receives devastating news about her mother’s fight with terminal cancer, she returns to Tokushima at the base of Mt. Bizan.
8. Gate: A True Story (2008)
“Gate: A True Story” is a captivating documentary film from 2008 that explores the real-life story of a small town in the United States with a mysterious gate to another world. The movie is directed by Matt Taylor and features Nanako Matsushima and Martin Sheen as stars.
9. Gôsuto (2010)
Experience a captivating journey of love, loss, and the mysteries of the afterlife in the South Korean drama, “Gôsuto” (2010). Following the tragic murder of his lover, a distraught man embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind her death. With the help of a gifted medium, he reaches out to her spirit, hoping to bring justice and find peace.
10. Shield of Straw (2013)
In the action-packed Japanese film “Shield of Straw, “ the lives of an accused criminal and a team of police officers are intertwined in a high-stakes game of survival. With a billion-yen bounty on his head, the accused killer’s protection falls into the hands of a dedicated team of cops. As the accused transports evidence from one location to another, the entire nation watches, waiting for the killer’s capture.
11. When Marnie Was There (2014)
When Marnie Was There, released in 2015, is a heartwarming animated film directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi and based on the novel by Joan G. Robinson. The tale follows a 12-year-old girl named Anna, who is sent to stay with her aunt and uncle in the countryside. There, she meets and befriends a mysterious girl named Marnie. As the two girls forge a deep bond, they engage in delightful activities like dancing together. However, Anna starts to uncover secrets about Marnie’s true identity, causing her to question their friendship. Studio Ghibli’s masterful storytelling and enchanting visuals bring this classic tale to life, earning it a 7.6 IMDb rating and numerous accolades.
12. Yuukai Houtei: Seven Days (2018)
“Yuukai Houtei: Seven Days” is a gripping action-drama-thriller film that follows the story of a group of skilled, yet troubled individuals who must come together and fight against all odds. Set against the backdrop of an unknown and dangerous city, the film unfolds in the span of seven days, where the characters find themselves entangled in a web of lies, violence, and betrayal.
13. The Crimes That Bind (2018)
“The Mystery That Ties” is a suspenseful mystery-thriller that takes us on a thrilling journey through the winding streets of Tokyo. Michiko, a youthful woman from the countryside, pays a visit to her long-lost friend Hiromi and soon finds herself brutally murdered under perplexing circumstances.
14. Almost a Miracle (2019)
In the heartwarming comedy-drama “Almost a Miracle”, also known as “Machida-kun no sekai”, high school student Machida navigates life as a loner, struggling with his studies and extra-curricular activities. Despite this, his kind-hearted nature shines through. When he’s injured at school, Machida receives help from a fellow student in the infirmary.
15. The Great Yokai War: Guardians (2021)
“The Great Yokai War: Guardians” is a 2021 Japanese family adventure fantasy film directed by Takashi Miike. Set in the spirit world, it follows the story of brothers Dai and Kei who are summoned by peace-loving spirits to protect Tokyo from an angry demon. When they are separated, Kei embarks on a mission to save his brother and restore harmony between the human and spirit worlds.
