Is Midnight Bus Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Midnight Bus is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 157 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Midnight Bus Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2018, Midnight Bus enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Middle-aged Riichi Takamiya drives the midnight bus between Tokyo and snow-swept Niigata, where he lives. Under the direction of Masao Takeshita, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Taizo Harada. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Midnight Bus offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. While the 4K mastering highlights the production value, the pacing during its 157-minute runtime can feel deliberate.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Midnight Bus resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, Midnight Bus is available for streaming on Hulu. It is also featured on platforms like U-NEXT and FOD Channel Amazon Channel. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Video roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Midnight Bus centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. Middle-aged Riichi Takamiya drives the midnight bus between Tokyo and snow-swept Niigata, where he lives. Just as the relationship with his younger girlfriend is about to bloom, his emotionally desperate ex-wife suddenly reappears. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2018 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Midnight Bus has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Midnight Bus sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Midnight Bus (2018): with an audience rating of 3/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Where to Watch Midnight Bus Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Hulu
U-NEXT
FOD Channel Amazon Channel🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV
Google Play Movies🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TVGoogle Play MoviesParents Guide & Age Rating
Midnight Bus has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 3/10, and global collection metrics, Midnight Bus stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2018 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Midnight Bus movie hit or flop?
Midnight Bus is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3/10 and lower collections.
Is Midnight Bus worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3/10, Midnight Bus may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Midnight Bus online?
Midnight Bus is currently available for streaming on Hulu. You can also check for it on platforms like Hulu, U-NEXT, FOD Channel Amazon Channel depending on your region.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Midnight Bus movie hit or flop?
Midnight Bus is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3/10 and lower collections.
Is Midnight Bus worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3/10, Midnight Bus may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Midnight Bus online?
Midnight Bus is currently available for streaming on Hulu. You can also check for it on platforms like Hulu, U-NEXT, FOD Channel Amazon Channel depending on your region.
What is the story of Midnight Bus?
Midnight Bus is a Drama movie that follows: Middle-aged Riichi Takamiya drives the midnight bus between Tokyo and snow-swept Niigata, where he lives. Just as the relationship with his younger girlfriend is about to bloom, his emotionally desper...
Is Midnight Bus family friendly?
Midnight Bus is classified as Drama. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is Midnight Bus available in?
Midnight Bus is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
Middle-aged Riichi Takamiya drives the midnight bus between Tokyo and snow-swept Niigata, where he lives. Just as the relationship with his younger girlfriend is about to bloom, his emotionally desperate ex-wife suddenly reappears.
Critic Reviews
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