Directory of World Cinema: Japan

Directory of World Cinema: Japan provides an insight into Japanese cinema through reviews of significant titles and case studies of directors, alongside explorations of the cultural and industrial origins of key genres. The book contains reviews, essays, research resources and full-colour film stills highlighting significant films and players. 

From the revered classics of Akira Kurosawa to the modern marvels of Takeshi Kitano, the films that have emerged from Japan represent a national cinema that has gained worldwide admiration and appreciation. Directory of World Cinema: Japan provides an insight into the cinema of Japan through reviews of significant titles and case studies of leading directors, alongside explorations of the cultural and industrial origins of key genres. As the inaugural volume of an ambitious series from Intellect documenting world cinema, the directory aims to play a part in moving intelligent, scholarly criticism beyond the academy by building a forum for the study of film that relies on a disciplined theoretical base. It takes the form of an A–Z collection of reviews, longer essays and research resources, accompanied by fifty full-colour film stills highlighting significant films and players. The cinematic lineage of samurai warriors, yakuza enforcers and atomic monsters take their place alongside the politically charged works of the Japanese New Wave, making this a truly comprehensive volume.

Introduction by the Editor

Film of the Year
Achilles and the Tortoise

Festival Focus
Nippon Connection

Industry Spotlight
The Arts Theatre Guild

Cultural Crossover
Art & Film

Directors
Takeshi Kitano
Satoshi Kon
Akira Kurosawa

Alternative Japan

Anime / Animation

Chambara / Samurai Cinema

Contemporary Blockbusters

Jidaigeki & Gendaigeki / Period & Contemporary Drama

J-Horror / Japanese Horror

Kaiju Eiga / Monster Movies

Nuberu Bagu / The Japanese New Wave

Pinku Eiga / Pink Films

Yakuza / Gangster