Japanese Cinema

Most of us have seen Japanese or Asian-inspired films, ranging from classics like Godzilla to more modern films like the remake of the Joy Luck Club or the Last Samurai. There are a number of action films in American cinema that have Japanese themes that many people enjoy. Anime is also one of the most popular Japanese cinematic art forms. Anime is the Japanese shortened word for animation, includes shows and feature films for children and adults alike. The story lines and characters are usually taken from Japanese comics, or manga.

Popular anime cartoons for children include Pokemon, and Sailor Moon.

Teenagers may enjoy anime like Marmalade Boy and Ranma 1⁄2.

But aside from the films and Japanese cinematic art forms that are fairly common, there are a host of other films that many people who are not familiar with Japanese may not be aware of. Japanese cinema has more to offer than martial arts films and video game-styles shows and graphics; here are some descriptions of Japanese films and directors that range in subject and style. As with any country’s film culture, you’re bound to learn more about a director whose work interests you, or find a film you may be interested in watching.