18 Movies Like Ikiru That Will Leave You Reflecting on Life

Rashomon, released in 1950, is reminiscent of Ikiru in many ways. Both movies are directed by Akira Kurosawa, a master storyteller. While Ikiru explores the meaning of life through the lens of a dying bureaucrat, Rashomon delves into the concept of truth through multiple perspectives of a crime. The similarities between the two films lie in their thought-provoking narratives and the profound impact they leave on the viewer. However, Rashomon takes a different approach by presenting conflicting accounts of the same event, challenging our perception of truth and highlighting the subjectivity of human experiences. The film's use of black and white nitrate film stock masterfully contrasts with its sordid storyline, creating a captivating visual experience. With its intriguing storytelling and Kurosawa's exceptional direction, Rashomon is a must-watch for anyone seeking an immersive and introspective cinematic journey.

High and Low, also known as Tengoku to jigoku, is reminiscent of Ikiru in its exploration of the tragedies of ordinary people. While Ikiru delves into the meaning of life and the acceptance of death in the face of terminal cancer, High and Low takes a different approach. It weaves a gripping story about a businessman who becomes a victim of extortion when his chauffeur's son is kidnapped by mistake. Akira Kurosawa keeps the film deliberately paced, allowing the audience to delve into the intricate details of the police investigation. The acting by the entire cast, including Toshiro Mifune, is superb, and Kurosawa's compositions are constructed and framed with artistic precision. While High and Low may not provide the same level of thrills as some of Kurosawa's other films, it is a tight and gripping suspenseful mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Seven Samurai, like Ikiru, is a true masterpiece by Akira Kurosawa. While Ikiru focuses on the meaning of life and the pursuit of purpose, Seven Samurai explores the themes of honor, sacrifice, and the power of collective action. Both films delve into the human condition, but in different contexts. Ikiru tells the story of a dying bureaucrat seeking fulfillment, while Seven Samurai follows a group of farmers hiring samurai to protect their village from bandits. Despite their differences in plot, both films captivate audiences with their profound storytelling, exceptional performances, and meticulous direction. Seven Samurai, often hailed as Kurosawa's greatest work, is a cinematic milestone that showcases the true beauty and magic of the art form. If you've seen and loved Ikiru, Seven Samurai is a must-watch.

Silence Like Glass, also known as Zwei Frauen, is reminiscent of Ikiru in its exploration of the themes of cancer and death. Both movies delve into the impact of a terminal illness on the central characters and their search for meaning in life. While Ikiru focuses on a dying bureaucrat in 1950s Japan, Silence Like Glass tells the story of a ballet dancer affected by cancer. Both films highlight the fragility and preciousness of life, emphasizing the importance of hope and never giving up. However, Silence Like Glass brings a different perspective to the table by incorporating the world of ballet, showcasing the strength and determination required in the face of adversity. With its touching portrayal of the human spirit and its ability to find resilience, Silence Like Glass is a movie that should not be missed by anyone who has appreciated the profound storytelling of Ikiru.

My Life, released in 1993, shares some similarities with the classic film Ikiru. Both movies explore the theme of mortality and the search for meaning in life. In Ikiru, we follow a bureaucrat who, upon discovering he has terminal cancer, embarks on a personal journey of self-discovery. Similarly, in My Life, we witness the journey of a terminally ill man as he prepares for his death. While Ikiru is set in 1950's Japan and My Life takes place in the United States, both films delve into the universal human experience of grappling with our mortality. The performances in both movies are exceptional, with Takashi Shimura delivering a heartbreakingly earnest performance in Ikiru, and Michael Keaton giving a killer performance in My Life. Although My Life may not be a movie you can watch over and over again, it is definitely thought-provoking and worth a watch.

Avé, a Bulgarian drama released in 2012, shares some similarities with the Japanese masterpiece Ikiru. Both films explore the theme of death and its impact on the characters' lives. While Ikiru follows a dying bureaucrat's search for meaning, Avé focuses on two troubled teenagers who meet while hitchhiking across Bulgaria. Despite their different settings, both movies capture the profound emotions and existential questions that arise when faced with mortality. However, Avé takes a more unconventional approach, with its protagonist, Ave, known for her convincing lies and dramatic storytelling. This adds an imaginative and entertaining element to the film. Ultimately, while Ikiru is a timeless classic that delves deep into the human condition, Avé offers a fresh and unique perspective on the subject of life and death.

Drei Patienten is reminiscent of Ikiru because both films revolve around the theme of life in the face of death. In Ikiru, a dying bureaucrat seeks meaning in his life after discovering he has cancer. Similarly, Drei Patienten explores the lives of three patients facing their own mortality. While Ikiru delves into the existential and emotional journey of its protagonist, Drei Patienten focuses on the choices and decisions made by the patients and their doctors. The German film offers a unique perspective on the human experience and the difficult decisions one must make during trying times. Though not as highly acclaimed as Ikiru, Drei Patienten is definitely worth watching for those who appreciate thought-provoking dramas that tackle the complexities of life and death.

Dil Ek Mandir: Dr. Dharmesh is devastated when he returns from abroad to find his love, Sita, married to someone else. He decides to devote his life to a cancer clinic, where he encounters Ram, a critically ill patient. Here's where the similarity with Ikiru begins. Both movies explore the theme of love and its connection with death and illness. While Ikiru focuses on the personal journey of a dying bureaucrat, Dil Ek Mandir delves into the ethical dilemma faced by Dr. Dharmesh as he must decide whether to save Ram's life or let him pass away to marry Sita. The Indian film takes a more melodramatic approach, incorporating musical elements and a love triangle. Despite their differences, both movies tackle profound questions about the meaning of life, love, and the choices we make.

The Deadline is reminiscent of Ikiru, as both movies explore the themes of cancer and death. While Ikiru tells the story of a dying bureaucrat searching for meaning in his life, The Deadline follows three sisters who face their own struggles following the loss of their father to cancer. Both films delve into the emotional journey of the characters and the impact of illness on their lives. However, The Deadline adds a unique twist by incorporating the aspirations and different deadlines of each sister. Aom wants to become a mother, Ai dreams of becoming a lead actress, and Aey battles cancer like her late father. This Thai drama offers a fresh perspective on the challenges faced by individuals dealing with illness and loss. With its natural performances and relatable family dynamics, The Deadline is a must-watch for anyone seeking a heartfelt exploration of life's complexities.

Sukrutham is a captivating film that explores the theme of death in a unique and compelling way. Similar to Ikiru, it delves into the lives of characters affected by terminal illness, but with a refreshing twist. While Ikiru focuses on the journey of a dying bureaucrat, Sukrutham shifts its perspective to the people around the cancer victim, making death itself the lead player. Mammootty delivers a career-defining performance as the cancer victim Ravishankar, but the film is not solely about him. It masterfully portrays the impact of his illness on the lives of those around him, particularly his confused wife played by Gowthami. The script, credited to M T Vasudevan Nair, creates a thought-provoking and introspective cinematic experience reminiscent of Mammootty's stellar performance in "Thaniyavarthanam.

Changing Hearts is a delightful film that shares some similarities with Ikiru. Both movies explore the theme of life and death, but in very different ways. While Ikiru takes a serious and introspective approach, Changing Hearts approaches the topic with a comedic and light-hearted tone. Despite their differences in tone, both films manage to touch upon the universal human experience of grappling with mortality. While Ikiru is a Japanese drama that delves deep into the philosophical and emotional aspects of life, Changing Hearts, on the other hand, is an American comedy-drama that focuses on love, loss, and the unexpected connections that can be formed in trying circumstances. If you enjoyed the profound and thought-provoking nature of Ikiru, then Changing Hearts offers a refreshing and lighthearted take on similar themes.

Inochi is reminiscent of Ikiru in its exploration of life's meaning and the portrayal of characters facing terminal illnesses. While Ikiru follows the story of a dying bureaucrat in 1950's Japan, Inochi delves into the life of Yu Miri, a writer who becomes pregnant by her married lover and decides to keep the baby without his help. Both movies tackle the profound themes of life, death, and the choices we make in the face of adversity. However, Inochi takes a different approach by focusing on the challenges of single motherhood and the unexpected support from Yu Miri's ex-boyfriend. The films share a common thread of grappling with the fragility of existence but offer distinct perspectives through their characters' journeys. If you've enjoyed Ikiru's poignant exploration of life's complexities, Inochi provides a fresh and heartfelt take on similar themes, infused with the complexities of relationships and the resilience of the human spirit.

Ikaw, released in 1993, is reminiscent of the film Ikiru. While Ikiru explores the meaning of life through the perspective of a dying bureaucrat in 1950s Japan, Ikaw delves into themes of love, loss, and mortality in a Filipino setting. Both movies touch upon the topics of death and cancer, highlighting the fragility of life. However, Ikiru's plot revolves around a bureaucrat's quest for purpose and redemption, while Ikaw focuses on a romantic relationship challenged by illness. Despite their differences, both films offer thought-provoking narratives that remind us to cherish every moment and reflect on the true essence of our existence. Fans of Ikiru should definitely watch Ikaw to experience a heartfelt Filipino take on life and love.

Shan, released in 2006, has a lot in common with the classic film Ikiru. Both movies explore the themes of death and cancer, but they take different approaches in doing so. While Ikiru focuses on a dying bureaucrat's search for meaning in life, Shan tells the story of Vihang, a poor man who becomes a successful singer and still pines for his old flame, Nilambari. Both films have a romantic element, with Shan delving into the complexities of a husband-wife relationship. Despite the differences in storylines and settings (Ikiru is set in 1950s Japan, while Shan is set in India), both movies touch on the universal human experiences of love, loss, and the pursuit of fulfillment. So if you enjoyed Ikiru and its thoughtful exploration of life's meaning, Shan offers a similar introspective journey with its own unique cultural context.

Life After Death is reminiscent of Ikiru in its exploration of the themes of death and finding meaning in life. Both movies delve into the emotional journey of their main characters as they come face to face with mortality. While Ikiru focuses on a dying bureaucrat in 1950's Japan, Life After Death tells the story of a father and son coping with the loss of the mother. The films differ in their genres, with Ikiru being a Drama and Life After Death combining Comedy and Drama. Despite this difference, both movies capture the complexities of human emotions in the face of death. Life After Death offers a unique perspective on the grieving process, portraying a strong-minded father whose bad temper affects the entire family. The film showcases the transformation of the father, played convincingly by Peik Stenberg, from an unbearable character to someone sympathetic.

One-Two-Three Now! is a heartfelt drama that shares similarities with the beloved classic Ikiru. Both films explore the themes of death and cancer, but take different approaches in their storytelling. While Ikiru focuses on a dying bureaucrat's search for meaning in his final days, One-Two-Three Now! delves into the story of Jeppe, a young man who falls in love with Cecilie, only to discover that she has cancer. As Jeppe strives to balance his dreams of becoming a professional basketball player with his love for Cecilie, the film reminds us that nothing lasts forever, yet true love remains eternal. With its poignant storyline and relatable characters, One-Two-Three Now! captivates viewers, offering a touching exploration of life, death, and the power of love.

Listen to Your Heart is reminiscent of Ikiru, the 1952 Japanese film directed by Akira Kurosawa. Both movies touch upon the theme of death and the search for meaning in life. While Ikiru explores the journey of a dying bureaucrat in 1950s Japan, Listen to Your Heart tells the story of a singer/songwriter who falls in love with a girl who is unable to hear the music he creates. Despite the differences in setting and plot, both films delve into the profound impact that mortality has on individuals and their pursuit of purpose. While Ikiru is hailed as a masterpiece in the world of cinema, Listen to Your Heart brings its own charm and relatability, particularly through its incorporation of music and the portrayal of the challenges faced by the hearing impaired. If you enjoyed Ikiru, I highly recommend watching Listen to Your Heart for its poignant exploration of love, friendship, and the power of music to connect people across barriers.

Way to Find the Best Life is reminiscent of Ikiru, a Japanese masterpiece directed by Akira Kurosawa. Both films explore the theme of death and the search for meaning in life. While Ikiru tells the story of a dying bureaucrat in 1950s Japan, Way to Find the Best Life focuses on two women with advanced cancer who decide to embark on a bucket list adventure. Despite their different plots, both movies share a common thread of facing mortality head-on and finding purpose in the face of death. While Ikiru is hailed as a cinematic masterpiece with flawless performances and technical direction, Way to Find the Best Life offers a more contemporary take on the subject, featuring strong performances by Sayuri Yoshinaga and Yûki Amami. If you enjoyed Ikiru and want to see a modern interpretation of the search for meaning in life, Way to Find the Best Life is a must-watch.