Ichi the Killer (2001)
Ichi the Killer is streaming in Japan on Netflix, U-NEXT, Anime Times Amazon Channel.
The verdict
Ichi the Killer is a solid, watchable Japanese film that mostly delivers on what it promises. It holds a 7.0/10 on TMDB from 1,152 ratings, well above the typical run of new releases. It runs a manageable 129 minutes. In Japan you can stream it on Netflix, U-NEXT, Anime Times Amazon Channel.
Should you spend 2h 9m on it?
2h 9m of Japanese action, leaning crime. Standard length — a normal evening's watch, nothing to plan around.
- Why
- 7.0/10 from 1,152 ratings — well received so far, on a modest sample.
- Skip if
- you want a slower, character-led story
- Best for
- An ordinary evening in
Story
As sadomasochistic yakuza enforcer Kakihara searches for his missing boss he comes across Ichi, a repressed and psychotic killer who may be able to inflict levels of pain that Kakihara has only dreamed of.
Good to know
| Runtime | 2h 9m |
| Genre | Action / Crime |
| Language | Japanese |
| Best screen | Stream at home |
Director
Takashi Miike
Cast
Where to watch in Japan
Included with a subscription — no extra charge on these platforms.
Availability as of 27 Sept 2026 — platforms may change over time.
More: Everything new on Netflix · All Netflix titles in Japan
Trailer
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