Judas (2013)
A young woman reinvents herself in Tokyo's nightlife, trading vulnerability for power — and paying a hidden price.
Judas - Movie Information
- Original Title: ユダ
- Release Year: 2013
- Directed by: Izumi Otomi
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Runtime: 1h 49m
- Original Language: Japanese
- Spoken Languages: Japanese
- Release Date (Theatrical): January 26, 2013 (Japan)
- Alternative Titles: Yuda (JP)
- Production Companies: Is.Field, Pony Canyon, Tristone Entertainment
- Production Countries: Japan
Judas - Plot
High school student Erika is sick and tired of her weakness. By chance, Erika begins working at a cabaret night club. She eventually becomes the top lady in the night world and is known by her nickname Kurumi. In the process, she manipulates men and makes a lot of money from them. Deep down inside though, Erika suffers from loneliness and fear. A man then appears in front of her.
Judas - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and get a first look at Erika's transformation:
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Judas - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Izumi Otomi
Main Cast
- Ayame Misaki
- Sho Aoyagi
- Kenji Mizuhashi
- Noriko Aoyama
- Ryohei Suzuki
- NorA
- Ryo Tajima
- Itsuji Itao
- Hikari Kajiwara
- Yoshino Imamura
Writers
- Kurumi Tachibana
- Izumi Otomi
Producers
- Manabu Shinoda
- Shuya Ogaki
Judas - FAQs
What is Judas about?
Judas follows Erika, a high school student fed up with her own timidity, who stumbles into work at a cabaret nightclub. She transforms into the top hostess known as Kurumi, manipulating men and accumulating wealth — yet beneath the glamour, she quietly battles loneliness and a longing for genuine connection.
Does Judas have a happy ending?
Judas leans more toward bittersweet than straightforwardly happy. Erika's journey through the night world forces her to confront her inner emptiness, and the arrival of a mysterious man in her life sets the stage for an emotionally complex resolution that prioritizes honesty over easy comfort.
Where can you watch Judas online?
You can check current streaming availability for Judas on JustWatch, which tracks all platforms offering the film in your region. Options may include rental or purchase depending on where you are located.
What draws Erika into the cabaret world?
Erika's entry into the nightclub scene is almost accidental — she stumbles into it by chance. But what keeps her there is a hunger to shed her perceived weakness and claim power. The cabaret becomes both her armor and her trap, offering status while deepening her isolation.
Who are the main actors in Judas?
Ayame Misaki leads the cast as Erika, with Sho Aoyagi, Kenji Mizuhashi, Noriko Aoyama, and Ryohei Suzuki rounding out the principal players. The ensemble also includes NorA, Ryo Tajima, Itsuji Itao, Hikari Kajiwara, and Yoshino Imamura.
Is Judas based on a true story or source material?
Judas is adapted from a novel by Kurumi Tachibana, who also co-wrote the screenplay alongside director Izumi Otomi. The story draws on themes of female identity, vulnerability, and survival in Japan's nightlife industry rather than being rooted in specific real-world events.
Who directed Judas and what is the film's style?
Izumi Otomi directed Judas, bringing a character-driven sensibility to the material. The film favors emotional interiority over spectacle, tracing Erika's psychological transformation with a measured, intimate tone that is characteristic of contemporary Japanese drama cinema.
What are similar films to Judas?
If Judas resonates with you, explore other Japanese dramas like An Autumn Afternoon, All Around Us, Liz and the Blue Bird, and Sailor Suit and Machine Gun. For something thematically adjacent from outside Japan, Tokyo Family and It Feels So Good share that same quiet emotional intensity.
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