FILM 227 Japanese Film

The course briefly discusses early Japanese cinema, and then places considerable emphasis on two influential directors who gained international attention in the post-World War II years: Yasujiro Ozu, who is considered the most Japanese of Japanese film directors, and Akira Kurosawa, who is considered the most western of Japanese film directors. This sets the stage for much of what the course goes on to consider, namely, how Japanese films to varying degrees reflect that nation’s distinct identity while also reflecting techniques and subjects that to some extent dovetail with trends in world cinema. The mostly contemporary feature films to be viewed include genres that are distinctively Japanese, including samurai and animation. All films are in Japanese with English subtitles.

Credits

Hours Weekly

Objectives

1. Develop a general knowledge of Japanese film history.
2. Identify running themes in Japanese films.
3. Discuss the “auteur” theory of the cinema as it relates to Japanese directors.
4. Analyze the close connection between history, culture and cinema in Japan.
5. Distinguish different cinematic styles and genres based on the cultural models.
6. Discuss the styles of the most important and influential Japanese directors.
7. Consider family life, cultural mores, religion, art and literature as depicted in Japanese films.
8. Identify ethical issues arising from cross-cultural study.

Objectives

1. Develop a general knowledge of Japanese film history.
2. Identify running themes in Japanese films.
3. Discuss the “auteur” theory of the cinema as it relates to Japanese directors.
4. Analyze the close connection between history, culture and cinema in Japan.
5. Distinguish different cinematic styles and genres based on the cultural models.
6. Discuss the styles of the most important and influential Japanese directors.
7. Consider family life, cultural mores, religion, art and literature as depicted in Japanese films.
8. Identify ethical issues arising from cross-cultural study.