Japanese cinema has a rich history of producing diverse and captivating films that resonate with audiences around the world. The year 2021 was no exception, with a remarkable lineup of Japanese movies that spanned various genres, from heartwarming dramas to thrilling adventures. In this article, we present the top 10 Japanese movies of 2021 that left a lasting impression and showcased the exceptional talent of Japanese filmmakers.

1. "Drive My Car" (2021): Directed by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, this film is a contemplative and emotionally resonant drama that explores the complexities of love, loss, and the power of art. It earned international acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for Best International Feature Film.

2. "Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy" (2021): Directed by Ryûsuke Hamaguchi, this anthology film weaves together three interconnected stories, each exploring the intricacies of human relationships with depth and nuance.

3. "Belle" (2021): Directed by Mamoru Hosoda, this animated fantasy film tells the story of a shy teenage girl who finds solace in a virtual world. The film's stunning animation and themes of self-discovery and acceptance struck a chord with audiences.

4. "Asakusa Kid" (2022): This charming coming-of-age film, directed by Kenji Katagiri, follows the journey of a young boy who discovers a passion for comedy in Tokyo's Asakusa district.

5. "The Voice of Sin" (2020): Released in 2020 but gaining recognition in 2021, this mystery thriller directed by Noboru Iguchi revolves around a radio show host who becomes embroiled in a murder case.

6. "Midnight Swan" (2020): Another film technically from 2020 but gaining international acclaim in 2021, this drama directed by Eiji Uchida tells the story of a transgender woman who seeks acceptance and identity in a conservative society.

7. "Under the Open Sky" (2020): Directed by Miwa Nishikawa, this emotional drama, though originally from 2020, made waves in 2021 with its compelling narrative of a former yakuza member attempting to reintegrate into society after a long prison sentence.

8. "Kakegurui Part 2" (2021): This thrilling live-action adaptation of the popular manga and anime series continued the story of high-stakes gambling and psychological battles at Hyakkaou Private Academy.

9. "Crazy Nights" (2020): Technically from 2020 but widely recognized in 2021, this dark comedy directed by Iwai Shunji explores the misadventures of two eccentric characters in Tokyo.

10. "Rurouni Kenshin: The Final" (2021): This action-packed film, based on the popular manga and anime series, concludes the epic saga of the legendary samurai Kenshin Himura. Directed by Keishi Ōtomo, it's a fitting and thrilling conclusion to the beloved franchise.

These ten Japanese movies, including some that gained recognition in the following year, offer a diverse range of storytelling, from intimate character studies to grand-scale epics. They showcase the versatility of Japanese cinema and the ability to captivate audiences with compelling narratives and artistic craftsmanship.

Japanese cinema remains a vital and influential part of the global film industry, continually pushing boundaries and delivering thought-provoking and entertaining movies. As we look to the future, Japanese filmmakers continue to be a force to be reckoned with, promising more remarkable films in the years to come.