Faces 2016
Faces (2016) is a gripping Edo-period drama from director Tomohiko Yamashita, unfolding in the shadows of 18th-century Japan. At its heart is Juzo Kimura—a wandering ronin turned reluctant family man by day, only to transform into a shadowy assassin once night falls.
Director: Tomohiko Yamashita
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Faces (2016) about?
Faces follows Juzo Kimura, a ronin in Edo who balances a quiet life as a sword instructor for his wife and daughter with deadly nighttime work as a hired assassin. His carefully constructed double life begins to unravel when the paths of other men living in secret intersect with his own.
Who directed Faces?
Tomohiko Yamashita directed Faces (2016), bringing a visually rich and thematically layered approach to this Edo-era drama.
Who stars in Faces?
Ken Matsudaira takes the lead role as Juzo Kimura, supported by actors like Ken Ishiguro, Hayato Onozuka, Shōhei Hino, and Katsuo Nakamura in pivotal supporting roles.
Is Faces (2016) worth watching?
Faces is a compelling period drama that offers more than just action—its exploration of identity and moral conflict makes it intriguing even for those who aren't regular fans of samurai films. While not widely rated on IMDb, its atmospheric direction and strong performances make it a solid pick for drama enthusiasts.
How long is Faces?
Faces (2016) runs for 90 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Faces (2016) — A Dual Life of Honor and Shadows in Edo
Faces (2016) is a gripping Edo-period drama from director Tomohiko Yamashita, unfolding in the shadows of 18th-century Japan. At its heart is Juzo Kimura—a wandering ronin turned reluctant family man by day, only to transform into a shadowy assassin once night falls. His double life unravels when the fates of men caught between duty and darkness collide in the bustling streets and quiet alleys of Edo. Yamashita crafts a moody, atmospheric tale where honor clashes with survival, and every blade drawn carries the weight of regret. With stunning cinematography and a restrained yet intense performance from Ken Matsudaira in the lead role, Faces delivers a poetic exploration of identity, redemption, and the cost of living a life split between light and shadow.
This isn't just a samurai story—it's a psychological journey into the soul of a man torn between protecting his family and embracing the violence that defines him. The film's tense pacing and understated emotional depth linger long after the credits roll, making it a standout in the genre for viewers who crave more than just swordplay from their historical dramas.