Harakiri (1962)
Harakiri is streaming in Japan on Hulu, U-NEXT, FOD Channel Amazon Channel.
The verdict
Harakiri stood out as one of the better-rated Japanese films of its release window. It carries an 8.5/10 on TMDB across 1,282 ratings — comfortably clear of the pack. It clocks in at a standard 135 minutes. In Japan you can stream it on Hulu, U-NEXT, FOD Channel Amazon Channel.
Should you spend 2h 15m on it?
2h 15m of Japanese action with drama threaded through, fine for the whole family. Runs about as long as you'd expect, so no scheduling gymnastics needed.
- Why
- Currently 8.5/10 from 1,282 ratings, which is a good sign this early.
- Skip if
- you'd rather the plot moved on people than on set pieces
- Best for
- An evening with the household together
Story
Down-on-his-luck veteran Tsugumo Hanshirō enters the courtyard of the prosperous House of Iyi. Unemployed, and with no family, he hopes to find a place to commit seppuku—and a worthy second to deliver the coup de grâce in his suicide ritual. The senior counselor for the Iyi clan questions the ronin’s resolve and integrity, suspecting Hanshirō of seeking charity rather than an honorable end. What follows is a pair of interlocking stories which lay bare the difference between honor and respect, and promises to examine the legendary foundations of the Samurai code.
Good to know
| Runtime | 2h 15m |
| Watch with family? | G · Yes — family friendly |
| Genre | Action / Drama |
| Language | Japanese |
| Best screen | Stream at home |
Director
Masaki Kobayashi
Cast
Where to watch in Japan
Included with a subscription — no extra charge on these platforms.
Availability as of 22 Sept 2026 — platforms may change over time.
Trailer
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