---
title: "The Third Murder"
year: 2017
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/the-third-murder-2017"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 434775
imdb_id: null
status: "Unknown"
community_rating: 6.6
vote_count: 0
content_rating: "Unrated"
---

# The Third Murder (2017) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/the-third-murder-2017

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

The Third Murder is a 2017 Japanese legal thriller directed, written, and edited by Hirokazu Kore-eda. The narrative follows Shigemori, an elite lawyer tasked with defending Misumi, a man who has confessed to a robbery-and-murder despite having a prior criminal record for a killing thirty years earlier. As the legal proceedings unfold, Shigemori becomes increasingly uncertain about the reality of his client's guilt, leading to a deep investigation into the nature of truth.

The film holds cultural significance as a notable entry in Kore-eda's filmography, having been selected for the main competition at the 74th Venice International Film Festival. It is characterized by its slow-burn, atmospheric approach to the courtroom genre, focusing on the subjective nature of truth and the heavy implications of the death penalty rather than traditional investigative tropes.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A lawyer struggles to uncover the truth when his client confesses to a murder he doubts."

### Why Watch
- Directed and written by acclaimed filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda
- Features performances by Masaharu Fukuyama and Koji Yakusho
- Explores complex moral questions regarding truth and the death penalty

### Caveats & Content Note
- The deliberate pacing may feel slow for viewers seeking a fast-paced action thriller
- Tone & Suitability: This film maintains a somber, contemplative tone with a measured pace suitable for adult audiences interested in complex legal narratives.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: #legal-thriller, #japanese-cinema, #courtroom-drama, #psychological-mystery, #death-penalty-focus, #character-driven

## Streaming Availability Matrix

Direct streaming licensing updates dynamically. Consult the live tracking interface at https://www.archytele.com/show/the-third-murder-2017#watch.

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: Where can I stream The Third Murder?
Availability varies by region; you should check local streaming platforms or the official movie database for current listings in your area.

### Q: Is this film worth watching?
The film is highly regarded for its direction by Hirokazu Kore-eda and its nuanced exploration of legal and moral dilemmas.

### Q: What is the runtime of the film?
The Third Murder has a total runtime of two hours and five minutes.

### Q: Is this part of a series or franchise?
No, The Third Murder is a standalone feature film directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda.

## Grounded Source Citations

- [The Third Murder — The Movie Database (TMDB)](https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/434775)
- [The Third Murder (2017)](https://mydramalist.com/)
- [The Third Murder (2017) directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda • Reviews, film + cast](https://letterboxd.com/)
- [The Third Murder Summary, Trailer, Cast, Where to Watch and More](https://screenrant.com/)
- [The Third Murder (2017)](https://www.filmaffinity.com/us/main.html)
- [The Third Murder](https://www.wikiwand.com/)

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*