The Japanese Film

Rating:
Summary: Essential reading on Japanese film and industry.
Review: To be quite honest - I am suprised that nobody has reviewed this book yet. While orginally released in 1959 - the one you see above is an updated and expanded version from 1982.

This is essential reading for die-hard buffs and students of film because it traces the historical development of Japanese cinema. Furthermore, there is a focus on industry rather than being overwhelmed with massive chapters on Ozu, Kurosawa etc. This makes it a useful point of departure from which to head into greater depths of analysis and specific interests.

Books on Japanese film history and industry are few in numbers with current trends tending to be very academic with specific focal concerns. Any reader who desires texts on specific topics and directors will greatly benefit from reading this book.