Is The Night of the Earthquake Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Night of the Earthquake is likely a skip if you enjoy Thriller movies.
It features a runtime of 61 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Night of the Earthquake Review
Last updated: January 12, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2002, The Night of the Earthquake enters the Thriller genre with a narrative focused on Mari and Yasuo are getting "fresh" with each other at the garbage dump when Mari unveils that she knows the whereabouts of a safe holding $100,000. Under the direction of Daisuke Gotô, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Mariko Nata. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Night of the Earthquake 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, The Night of the Earthquake resonates with current cultural themes in the Thriller 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, The Night of the Earthquake 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 The Night of the Earthquake centers on a unique premise within the Thriller landscape. Mari and Yasuo are getting "fresh" with each other at the garbage dump when Mari unveils that she knows the whereabouts of a safe holding $100,000. After some convincing, Mari gets Yasuo to help her with the robbery. What these two sexually charged criminals don't know is that Kawada, a sadistic accountant for his gang, is also after the cash, and will stop at nothing to get it. During the night of the robbery, Katsuhiro, the manager of the warehouse in which all of this takes place, checks in the office only to find his co-worker and lover Keiko all tied up by the hands of Mari. Kawada arrives soon after, and as he's about to gut Yasuo like a fish, a massive earthquake shakes the whole city, and everyone is trapped inside. Kawada takes over and maniacly ties everyone up and carries out his savage sexual fantasies. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2002 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Night of the Earthquake 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 The Night of the Earthquake sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Night of the Earthquake (2002): with an audience rating of 2/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Thriller, Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Night of the Earthquake has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Thriller, Drama), viewers should expect mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 2/10, and global collection metrics, The Night of the Earthquake stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2002 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Night of the Earthquake movie hit or flop?
The Night of the Earthquake is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 2/10 and lower collections.
Is The Night of the Earthquake worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 2/10, The Night of the Earthquake may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Night of the Earthquake online?
The Night of the Earthquake 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
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Night of the Earthquake movie hit or flop?
The Night of the Earthquake is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 2/10 and lower collections.
Is The Night of the Earthquake worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 2/10, The Night of the Earthquake may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Night of the Earthquake online?
The Night of the Earthquake 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 The Night of the Earthquake?
The Night of the Earthquake is a Thriller, Drama movie that follows: Mari and Yasuo are getting "fresh" with each other at the garbage dump when Mari unveils that she knows the whereabouts of a safe holding $100,000. After some convincing, Mari gets Yasuo to help her ...
Is The Night of the Earthquake family friendly?
The Night of the Earthquake falls under Thriller, Drama, which often contain intense scenes. Parental discretion is advised.
What language is The Night of the Earthquake available in?
The Night of the Earthquake is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
Mari and Yasuo are getting "fresh" with each other at the garbage dump when Mari unveils that she knows the whereabouts of a safe holding $100,000. After some convincing, Mari gets Yasuo to help her with the robbery. What these two sexually charged criminals don't know is that Kawada, a sadistic accountant for his gang, is also after the cash, and will stop at nothing to get it. During the night of the robbery, Katsuhiro, the manager of the warehouse in which all of this takes place, checks in the office only to find his co-worker and lover Keiko all tied up by the hands of Mari. Kawada arrives soon after, and as he's about to gut Yasuo like a fish, a massive earthquake shakes the whole city, and everyone is trapped inside. Kawada takes over and maniacly ties everyone up and carries out his savage sexual fantasies.
Critic Reviews
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