Is Paper Lantern Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Paper Lantern is likely a skip if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 100 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Paper Lantern Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1987, Paper Lantern enters the Action genre with a narrative focused on A new wave Yakuza film in which Takanori Jinnai plays a young Yakuza suffering from stomach cancer who has very little left to live. Under the direction of Shunichi Kajima, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Takanori Jinnai. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Paper Lantern offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Paper Lantern resonates with current cultural themes in the Action 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, Paper Lantern is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Paper Lantern centers on a unique premise within the Action landscape. A new wave Yakuza film in which Takanori Jinnai plays a young Yakuza suffering from stomach cancer who has very little left to live. This film is based on the posthumous manuscript of Shoji Kaneko, the legendary director who died of cancer after completing work on the hit "Ryuji". The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1987 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Paper Lantern 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 Paper Lantern sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Paper Lantern (1987): with an audience rating of 0/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Action, Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Paper Lantern has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Action, Drama), viewers should expect violence, action sequences.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 0/10, and global collection metrics, Paper Lantern stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1987 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Paper Lantern movie hit or flop?
Paper Lantern is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is Paper Lantern worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, Paper Lantern may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Paper Lantern online?
Paper Lantern may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Explore More Verdicts
More with Takanori Jinnai
View full filmography
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Paper Lantern movie hit or flop?
Paper Lantern is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is Paper Lantern worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, Paper Lantern may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Paper Lantern online?
Paper Lantern may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What is the story of Paper Lantern?
Paper Lantern is a Action, Drama movie that follows: A new wave Yakuza film in which Takanori Jinnai plays a young Yakuza suffering from stomach cancer who has very little left to live. This film is based on the posthumous manuscript of Shoji Kaneko, t...
Is Paper Lantern family friendly?
Paper Lantern is classified as Action, Drama. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is Paper Lantern available in?
Paper Lantern is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
A new wave Yakuza film in which Takanori Jinnai plays a young Yakuza suffering from stomach cancer who has very little left to live. This film is based on the posthumous manuscript of Shoji Kaneko, the legendary director who died of cancer after completing work on the hit "Ryuji".
Critic Reviews
No reviews found for this filter.