Midnight Eye je rog obilja za ljubitelje japanskog filma.
Interviews
September 3, 2012
Masao Kobayashi
Masao Kobayashi recounts his adventures as a Japanese producer in North Korea for the film Somi - The Taekwon-do Woman. By Johannes Schönherr.
January 20, 2011
Shinya Tsukamoto
"When I make a Tetsuo movie I don't shoot it in one month. I need to dedicate enough time to the production, and I cannot give up that style."
December 13, 2010
Yoshishige Yoshida
"For me youth is necessarily a destructive force. The idea that youth is a splendid thing, as they show in commercials, is merely an illusion."
Gen Takahashi
"The question is why the police in Japan don't stop their illegal activities. It's because the people are docile."
September 30, 2010
Takahiko Iimura
"If a film said 'This is Takahiko Iimura' the image will be limited by an image of myself, but if a film said 'This is not Takahiko Iimura' the possibilities are limitless."
June 1, 2010
Yoichi Sai
"It wasn't like I wanted to make films or wanted to surround myself in a filmmaking environment. I was simply told, 'Here's a job for you. Take it.'"
April 22, 2010
March 29, 2010
Momoko Ando
"What I believe in most is the power of people's imagination to fill in what isn't there."
January 25, 2010
Tokachi Tsuchiya
"I was a bit worried the yakuza were going to turn up at the theatre when we first started screening the film in Tokyo."
December 22, 2009
August 25, 2009
June 2, 2009
Ian Buruma
"The idea of racial harmony was part of Japanese propaganda, not a reflection of reality."
April 23, 2009
Michael Arias
"I like working as part of a large group. That's one of the aspects of filmmaking that makes it unique among all the visual arts: the fact that you have a crew of a hundred people all working toward one work of art."
March 27, 2009
Masanobu Ando
"In Japan, filmmakers are so preoccupied with getting the job done that they can never relax on the set."
February 5, 2009
Inuhiko Yomota
"I take a clear distance from Hollywood. This alone puts me at a completely different starting point from most Japanese critics today."
August 22, 2008
June 17, 2008
Kenji Murakami
"Most of the older filmmakers were all angry with me for making such a personal documentary. They want me to be more political."
March 16, 2008
December 4, 2007
Koji Wakamatsu
"A true filmmaker doesn't make films from the point of view of those in power. To me, that's a fundamental rule: you have to make films from the perspective of the weak."
August 21, 2007
Masao Adachi
"I try to explore the meaning of the words 'terrorism' and 'terrorist'. After 9/11, one of their original implied meanings - 'against the ruling power' - has become corrupted. In my film I refer to the original derivations of the word as it was first used during the French Revolution."
July 1, 2007
Kazuhiro Soda
"When I come back to Japan I feel like a foreigner. Almost everything looks fascinating to me."
May 14, 2007
Hiromasa Hirosue
"If we find people that will allow us to do 100% what we want to do, of course I wouldn't mind making a commercial film. But otherwise I will just stick with the independent films."
March 7, 2007
Nobuhiro Yamashita
"In Osaka everybody called me Nobu on the set, but in Tokyo I am 'Mr. Director'."
January 16, 2007
Rinko Kikuchi
"There isn't really a system of auditions in Japan. That's why there's a lot of typecasting going on."
December 29, 2006
Katsuhiro Otomo
"I don't mind if somebody else adapts one of my manga. I don't like repeating myself, and I feel that adapting my own manga is essentially repeating something I've already done once before."
November 20, 2006
Satoshi Kon
"I don't feel I'm a representative of Japan at all, nor that I'm representing myself. I represent the film and the staff of 100 or 200 people behind it."
October 13, 2006
Takashi Yamazaki
"Always isn't really about the past, but the future. People need to take control of their lives. I want people to do that. I made the film for those reasons."
September 13, 2006
Noriyoshi Ikeya
"There is one type of set designer that builds the set according to the director's wishes. But that's not my way. I'm interested in an exchange of ideas between me and the director."
June 8, 2006
Shunichi Nagasaki
"I've told myself that it would be good to do these genre movies the way the producer wants and then I would have a lot of work, but somehow I always deviate from that."
May 3, 2006
Kankuro Kudo
"I like to confuse the audience: they're laughing one moment and then the next they suddenly need to get serious. I like to keep them on their toes and not give them any chance to get bored."
March 7, 2006
Eiko Tanaka
"We're an animation company and we're really interested in putting out anything that falls into the category of animation. We'll do anything that we think sounds interesting."
January 22, 2006
December 20, 2005
November 22, 2005
October 24, 2005
Shinji Aoyama
"I want to make a comedy, but it never happens. I wonder if there's something in me that's stopping this?"
September 21, 2005
Kunihiko Tomioka
"The idea is to encourage these new young filmmakers with the same chance to direct their first works as I did with Yamashita and Kumakiri."
August 25, 2005
Jo Shishido & Toshio Masuda
"The people who went to see Toei films liked yakuza movies, but people who went to see Nikkatsu films came for the drama."
July 25, 2005
Lee Sang-il
"I learned filmmaking from analysing my favourite directors. I don't feel I learned all that much at film school."
June 15, 2005
Sogo Ishii
"To get the aggression across on screen I really had to get in there and be really energetic in my use of the camera. My formula was that I had to be ten times as energetic in making the film than what I wanted to express on screen."
May 11, 2005
April 12, 2005
Ryuichi Hiroki
"Most people can't go to pink theatres, for various reasons, so I wanted to do things the other way round - to bring pink film to the people."
March 6, 2005
Shinji Aramaki
"I believe that Appleseed is spiritually in line with anime in general. It is, in a sense, a new type of animation."
January 28, 2005
Teruo Ishii
"When people refer to filmmaking as my job I'm always a bit embarrassed, because I don't consider what I do as anything more than having a great time."
November 29, 2004
November 1, 2004
September 23, 2004
Mamoru Oshii
"My goal is to always make a new movie that nobody has ever seen before. I think I've proven that with Innocence."
August 4, 2004
Katsuhito Ishii
"I felt it would be nice to make a family story in which no big tragic moments happen."
June 28, 2004
Hirokazu Kore-eda
"I used to think that documentary-style filmmaking was impossible in fiction because everything is already set down in the screenplay and the storyboards."
May 17, 2004
Ryuhei Kitamura
"I'll do whatever it takes to make my films. That's the difference between me and other directors."
April 15, 2004
March 10, 2004
Nobuhiro Yamashita
"It's the people who are different from the norm who interest me, and especially if they don't realise that they are different."
February 16, 2004
December 8, 2003
November 5, 2003
Takeshi Kitano
"It's a bit like a gourmet chef with a very classy restaurant but no customers, who is asked to cook cheaper, more popular food and suddenly sees people lining up to eat."
October 6, 2003
Kitaro Kosaka
"I find it very admirable if people show the strength to try and achieve something, regardless of whether they succeed or not. But this spirit is something that I feel is missing in the attitude of today's Japanese people."
August 20, 2003
Kiyoshi Kurosawa
"I consciously tried to make a non-genre film, but I knew that perceptive viewers would clearly recognise it as a monster movie."
July 1, 2003
April 23, 2003
Takahisa Zeze
"Young women in Japan are a lot more open about sex these days. There are a lot more scenes in pink films now that show the women on top of the guys."
March 10, 2003
Tomoyuki Furumaya
"If I told you that I wanted to make a film but couldn't, that would sound better. But actually I didn't have any intention of making a film."
October 23, 2002
Shinya Tsukamoto
"I always wanted to make a film in which every image is infused with eroticism. A totally erotic film. Even Tetsuo I made with that idea in mind."
September 9, 2002
Yutaka Tsuchiya & Karin Amamiya
"If society is stagnant, you should take action yourself and deal with that stagnancy as an issue."
August 13, 2002
Katsuyuki Motohiro
"For me it was important from the start to make commercial films, films for big audiences."
June 24, 2002
May 23, 2002
April 22, 2002
Shunichi Nagasaki
"When I explained to the actors what their characters were about, I didn't tell them they would become lovers in the end."
March 18, 2002
February 11, 2002
Satoshi Kon
"Female characters are easier to write. With a male character I can only see the bad aspects. Because I am a man I know very well what a male character is thinking."
January 7, 2002
November 21, 2001
Akihiko Shiota
"If you want to describe the problems of Japanese society today, teenagers are a fitting symbol. It's always them who are confronted with those problems."
October 11, 2001
September 21, 2001
John Williams
"There are plenty of interesting stories to be told about everyday people in ordinary situations. Where are the filmmakers who want to do this? Where are the Mike Leighs and Ken Loachs of Japan?"
August 15, 2001
July 24, 2001
July 3, 2001
Kazuyoshi Kumakiri
"I liberated my own desires for violence and tried to open the inside of my mind to let out all the poison. And it's all there in the film."
May 1, 2001
Takashi Miike
"I'd like to throw away the idea of having to shoot a certain way for it to end up as a real film."
April 9, 2001
Kinji Fukasaku
"I am fully aware that there is a generation gap between where I stand and where those kids stand."
March 20, 2001
Kiyoshi Kurosawa
"If you only make one film a year in Japan, it's very difficult to stay alive."
Published by Scarecrow Press, The Historical Dictionary of Japanese Cinema is an introduction to and overview of the long history of Japanese cinema. It aims to provide an entry point for those with little or no familiarity with the subject, while it is organized so that scholars in the field will also be able to use it to find specific information. This is done through a detailed chronology, an introductory essay, and appendices of films, film studios, directors, and performers.
The cross-referenced dictionary entries cover key films, genres, studios, directors, performers, and other individuals. This book is an excellent access point for students, researchers, and anyone wanting to know more about Japanese cinema.
564 pages, ISBN-10: 0810857952, £59.95
More details on the Rowman & Littlefield Publishing Group website.
Film Reviews
Latest Film Reviews
Index
| Title | Original title | Year | Director |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19 | 19 | 2001 | WATANABE, Kazushi |
| 5 Centimeters Per Second | Byosoku 5 Senchimetoru | 2007 | SHINKAI, Makoto |
| 8000 Miles | SR Saitama no Rappa | 2009 | IRIE, Yu |
| 9 Souls | Nain Souruzu | 2003 | TOYODA, Toshiaki |
| A | A | 1998 | MORI, Tatsuya |
| A-Homansu | A-Homansu | 1986 | MATSUDA, Yusaku |
| Abnormal Family | Hentai Kazoku Aniki no Yomesan | 1983 | SUO, Masayuki |
| Actor’s Revenge, An | Yukinojo Henge | 1962 | ICHIKAWA, Kon |
| Adrift in Tokyo | Tenten | 2007 | MIKI, Satoshi |
| Aegis | Bokoku no Aegis | 2005 | SAKAMOTO, Junji |
| Africa Story | Afurika Monogatari | 1981 | HANI, Susumu |
| Ain’t No Tomorrows | Oretachi ni Asu wa Naissu | 2008 | TANADA, Yuki |
| Air Doll | Kuki Ningyo | 2009 | KOREEDA, Hirokazu |
| Akechi Kogoro vs. The Fiend With Twenty Faces | Akechi Kogoro tai Kaijin Niju Menso | 2002 | FUKUSAWA, Katsuo |
| All About Marriage | Kekkon no Subete | 1958 | OKAMOTO, Kihachi |
| All Night Long | All Night Long | 1992 | MATSUMURA, Katsuya |
| All Night Long 2 | All Night Long 2 | 1994 | MATSUMURA, Katsuya |
| All Night Long 3 | All Night Long 3 Saishu Sho | 1996 | MATSUMURA, Katsuya |
| Alone Across the Pacific | Taiheiyo Hitoribotchi | 1963 | ICHIKAWA, Kon |
| Andromedia | Andromedia | 1998 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| Animal Treasure Island | Doubutsu Takarajima | 1971 | IKEDA, Hiroshi |
| Annyong Kimchee | Annyon Kimuchi | 1999 | MATSUE, Tetsuaki |
| Appleseed | Appurushido | 2004 | ARAMAKI, Shinji |
| Assassination | Ansatsu | 1964 | SHINODA, Masahiro |
| Audition | Odishon | 1999 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| August in the Water | Mizu no naka no Hachigatsu | 1995 | ISHII, Sogo |
| Autumn Adagio | Fuwaku no Adagio | 2009 | INOUE, Tsuki |
| Autumn Afternoon, An | Sanma no Aji | 1962 | OZU, Yasujiro |
| Avalon | Avalon | 2000 | OSHII, Mamoru |
| Azumi | Azumi | 2003 | KITAMURA, Ryuhei |
| Bad Boys | Furyo Shonen | 1959, 1961 | HANI, Susumu |
| Bad Company | Mabudachi | 2001 | FURUMAYA, Tomoyuki |
| Bambi Bone | 2005 | SHIBUTANI, Noriko | |
| Barefoot Gen | Hadashi no Gen | 1983 | MORI, Masaki |
| Bashing | Basshingu | 2005 | KOBAYASHI, Masahiro |
| Battle Royale | Batoru Rowaiaru | 2000 | FUKASAKU, Kinji |
| Battle Royale II: Requiem | Batoru Rowaiaru II Rekuiemu | 2003 | FUKASAKU, Kenta; FUKASAKU, Kinji |
| Battlefield Baseball | Jigoku Koshien | 2003 | YAMAGUCHI, Yudai |
| Be Sure to Share | Chanto Tsutaeru | 2009 | SONO, Sion |
| Big Bang Love, Juvenile A | 46-oku Nen no Koi | 2006 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| Black Angel | Kuro no Tenshi Vol. 1 | 1997 | ISHII, Takashi |
| Black Belt | Kuro Obi | 2007 | NAGASAKI, Shunichi |
| Black Rain | Kuroi Ame | 1989 | IMAMURA, Shohei |
| Black Snow | Kuroi Yuki | 1965 | TAKECHI, Tetsuji |
| Black Tight Killers | Ore ni Sawaru to Abunaize | 1966 | HASEBE, Yasuharu |
| Blessing Bell, The | Kofuku no Kane | 2002 | SABU |
| Blind Beast, The | Moju | 1969 | MASUMURA, Yasuzo |
| Blind Woman’s Curse, The | Kaidan Nobori Ryu | 1970 | ISHII, Teruo |
| Blood and Bones | Chi to Hone | 2004 | SAI, Yoichi |
| Blood Brothers | Ryuko Kyodai | 2002 | OZAWA, Hitoshi |
| Blue | Blue | 2003 | ANDO, Hiroshi |
| Blue Spring | Aoi Haru | 2001 | TOYODA, Toshiaki |
| Book of the Dead, The | Shisha no Sho | 2005 | KAWAMOTO, Kihachiro |
| Bounce Ko Gals | Bounce Ko Gals | 1997 | HARADA, Masato |
| Branded to Kill | Koroshi no Rakuin | 1967 | SUZUKI, Seijun |
| Brave Story | Brave Story | 2006 | CHIGIRA, Koichi |
| Bright Future | Akarui Mirai | 2003 | KUROSAWA, Kiyoshi |
| Bubble Fiction: Boom or Bust | Bubble e Go: Time Machine wa Doramu-shiki | 2006 | BABA, Yasuo |
| Buried Forest, The | Umoregi | 2005 | OGURI, Kohei |
| Burst City | Bakuretsu Toshi Burst City | 1982 | ISHII, Sogo |
| By a Man’s Face Shall You Know Him | Otoko no Kao wa Rirekisho | 1966 | KATO, Tai |
| Canary | Kanaria | 2005 | SHIOTA, Akihiko |
| Carmen Comes Home | Karumen Kyo ni Kaeru | 1951 | KINOSHITA, Keisuke |
| Carnival of the Night | Yami no Carnival | 1983 | YAMAMOTO, Masashi |
| Casshern | kyashan | 2004 | KIRIYA, Kazuaki |
| Cat Returns, The | Neko no Ongaeshi | 2002 | MORITA, Hiroyuki |
| Catch, The | Gyoei no Mure | 1983 | SOMAI, Shinji |
| Charisma | Karisuma | 1999 | KUROSAWA, Kiyoshi |
| Chase, The | Harikomi | 1957 | NOMURA, Yoshitaro |
| Chinese Dinner | Chainizu Dina | 2001 | TSUTSUMI, Yukihiko |
| City of Lost Souls, The | Hyoryugai | 2000 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| Collected Works of Tadanari Okamoto, The | Okamoto Tadanori Sakuhin Shu | 1965 | OKAMOTO, Tadanari |
| Concent | Konsento | 2002 | NAKAHARA, Shun |
| Coward | Chinpira | 2000 | MOCHIZUKI, Rokuro |
| Crazy Thunder Road | Kuruizaki Sanda Rodo | 1980 | ISHII, Sogo |
| Crest of Betrayal | Chushingura Gaiden Yotsuya Kaidan | 1994 | FUKASAKU, Kinji |
| Crimson Bat – Blind Swordswoman, The | Mekura no Oichi Monogatari Makka na Nagaredori | 1969 | MATSUDA, Sadatsugu |
| Cure | Kyua | 1997 | KUROSAWA, Kiyoshi |
| Cutie Honey | Kyuti Hani | 2004 | ANNO, Hideaki |
| Dagger of Kamui | Kamui no Ken | 1985 | RINTARO |
| Dark Water | Honogurai Mizu no Soko kara | 2002 | NAKATA, Hideo |
| Daydream | Hakujitsumu | 1981 | TAKECHI, Tetsuji |
| Dead or Alive 2 | Dead or Alive 2 Tobosha | 2000 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| Dead or Alive: Final | 2002 | MIIKE, Takashi | |
| Demon | Yasha | 1985 | FURUHATA, Yasuo |
| Detective Conan: The Phantom of Baker Street | Meitantei Konan Beika Sutorito no Borei | 2002 | KODAMA, Kenji |
| Doing Time | Keimusho no naka | 2002 | SAI, Yoichi |
| Dolls | 2002 | KITANO, Takeshi | |
| Donald Richie Film Anthology, A | 1962 | Richie, Donald | |
| Door to the Sea | Umi e no Tobira | 2010 | OHASHI, Reiko |
| Doppelgänger | Dopperugenga | 2003 | KUROSAWA, Kiyoshi |
| Drowning Man, A | Oboreru Hito | 2002 | ICHIO, Naoki |
| DV / Domestic Violence | DV Domestikku Baiorensu | 2004 | NAKAHARA, Shun |
| Eel, The | Unagi | 1997 | IMAMURA, Shohei |
| Electric Dragon 80,000V | 2001 | ISHII, Sogo | |
| Elegy to Violence | Kenka Erejii | 1966 | SUZUKI, Seijun |
| Eli Eli Lema Sabachtani? | Eri Eri Rema Sabakutani | 2005 | AOYAMA, Shinji |
| Emperor’s Naked Army Marches On, The | Yukiyukite Shingun | 1987 | HARA, Kazuo |
| Erotic Liaisons | Erotikku na Kankei | 1992 | WAKAMATSU, Koji |
| Every Night Dreams | Yogoto no Yume | 1933 | NARUSE, Mikio |
| Face of Another, The | Tanin no Kao | 1966 | TESHIGAHARA, Hroshi |
| Faces of a Fig Tree | Ichijiku no Kao | 2007 | MOMOI, Kaori |
| Fall Guy | Kamata Koshin Kyoku | 1982 | FUKASAKU, Kinji |
| False Student, A | Nise Daigakusei | 1960 | MASUMURA, Yasuzo |
| Family | Famiri | 2001 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| Female Convict Scorpion: Jailhouse 41 | Joshu Sasori Dai-41 Zakkyobo | 1972 | ITO, Shunya |
| Fighting Delinquents | Kutabare Gurentai | 1960 | SUZUKI, Seijun |
| Fighting Soldiers | Tatakau Heitai | 1939 | KAMEI, Fumio |
| Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children | Fainaru Fantaji VII Adobento Chirudoren | 2005 | NOZUE, Takeshi; NOMURA, Tetsuya |
| Fine, Totally Fine | Zenzen Daijobu | 2008 | FUJITA, Yosuke |
| Fire Festival | Himatsuri | 1985 | YANAGIMACHI, Mitsuo |
| Firefly Dreams | Ichiban Utsukushii Natsu | 2001 | Williams, John |
| Fishes in August | Mizu no naka no Hachigatsu | 1998 | TAKAHASHI, Yoichiro |
| Forest With No Name, A | Shiritsu Tantei Hama Maiku Namae no Nai Mori | 2002 | AOYAMA, Shinji |
| Fried Dragon Fish | 1993 | IWAI, Shunji | |
| Fudoh II: Nohma Strikes Back! | Gokudo Sengokushi Fudo 2 | 1997 | FUKUOKA, Yoshihito |
| Fudoh: The New Generation | Gokudo Sengokushi Fudo | 1996 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| Funeral Parade of Roses | Bara no Soretsu | 1969 | MATSUMOTO, Toshio |
| g@me | 2003 | ISAKA, Minoru | |
| Gaea Girls | 2000 | Williams, Jano; Longinotto, Kim | |
| Gamera 3: Revenge of Iris | Gamera 3 Irisu kakusai | 1999 | KANEKO, Shusuke |
| Gamera the Brave | Chiisaki Yusha-tachi Gamera | 2005 | TASAKI, Ryuta |
| Gap in the Skin, A | Hada no Sukima | 2004 | ZEZE, Takahisa |
| Gate of Hell | Jigokumon | 1953 | KINUGASA, Teinosuke |
| Gemini | Soseiji | 1999 | TSUKAMOTO, Shinya |
| Getting Wild With Our Monkey | Kemonogare Orera no Saru to | 2002 | SUNAGA, Hideaki |
| Gips | Gipusu | 2000 | SHIOTA, Akihiko |
| Glamorous Life of Sachiko Hanai, The | Hanai Sachiko no Karei na Shogai | 2003 | KURODA, Emi; ITO, Takeshi; MATSUE, Tetsuaki |
| Go | 2001 | YUKISADA, Isao | |
| God’s Puzzle | Kamisama no Pazuru | 2008 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| Gohatto | Gohatto | 1999 | OSHIMA, Nagisa |
| Gojoe | Gojo Reisenki | 2000 | ISHII, Sogo |
| Good Morning | Ohayo | 1959 | OZU, Yasujiro |
| Gozu | Gokudo Kyofu Daigekijo Gozu | 2003 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| Graveyard of Honour | Shin Jingi no Hakaba | 2002 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| Great Killing, The | Daisatsujin | 1964 | KUDO, Eiichi |
| Guard from Underground, The | Jigoku no Keibiin | 1992 | KUROSAWA, Kiyoshi |
| Guilty of Romance | Koi no Tsumi | 2011 | SONO, Sion |
| Guys from Paradise, The | Tengoku kara Kita Otoko-tachi | 2001 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| Hair Opera, The | Mohatsu Kageki | 1992 | OBITANI, Yuri |
| Hairpin Circus | Heapin Sakasu | 1972 | NISHIMURA, Kiyoshi |
| Half a Confession | Hanochi | 2004 | SASABE, Kiyoshi |
| Hanzo the Razor: Sword of Justice | Goyokiba | 1972 | MISUMI, Kenji |
| Hard Boiled | 1997 | KANAZAWA, Katsuji | |
| Heart, Beating in the Dark – New Version | Yamiutsu Shinzo | 2005 | NAGASAKI, Shunichi |
| Her Brother | Otouto | 1960 | ICHIKAWA, Kon |
| History of Postwar Japan as Told by a Bar Hostess | Nippon Sengoshi Madamu Onboro no Seikatsu | 1970 | IMAMURA, Shohei |
| Hitokiri | Hitokiri | 1969 | GOSHA, Hideo |
| Hole in the Sky | Sora no Ana | 2001 | KUMAKIRI, Kazuyoshi |
| Homeless Student, The | Homuresu Chugakusei | 2008 | FURUMAYA, Tomoyuki |
| Homeless, The | Yadonashi | 1974 | SAITO, Koichi |
| Homemade Sake | Danchizake | 2001 | ONO, Satoshi |
| Hoodlum Soldier | Heitai Yakuza | 1965 | MASUMURA, Yasuzo |
| Horror of Malformed Men, The | Edogawa Rampo Zenshu Kyofu Kikei Ningen | 1969 | ISHII, Teruo |
| Household X | Kazoku X | 2011 | YOSHIDA, Koki |
| Howl’s Moving Castle | Hauru no Ugoku Shiro | 2004 | MIYAZAKI, Hayao |
| Human Murder Weapon, A | Ningen Kyoki Ai to Ikari no Ringu | 1992 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| Humanity and Paper Balloons | Ninjo Kami-fusen | 1937 | YAMANAKA, Sadao |
| Hush! | Hashu! | 2001 | HASHIGUCHI, Ryosuke |
| I Am an SM Writer | Futei no Kisetsu | 2000 | HIROKI, Ryuichi |
| I Saw the Killer | Kyatsu o Nigasu na | 1956 | SUZUKI, Hideo |
| I Was Born, But… | Umarete wa Mitakeredo | 1932 | OZU, Yasujiro |
| Iden & Tity | 2003 | TAGUCHI, Tomorowo | |
| Identity | Sekirara | 2004 | MATSUE, Tetsuaki |
| Imprint | 2006 | MIIKE, Takashi | |
| Innocence | Inosensu | 2004 | OSHII, Mamoru |
| Intentions of Murder | Akai Satsui | 1964 | IMAMURA, Shohei |
| Introspection Tower | Mikaeri no To | 1941 | SHIMIZU, Hiroshi |
| Inugami | 2001 | HARADA, Masato | |
| Isn’t Anyone Alive? | Ikiteru Mono wa Inainoka | 2012 | ISHII, Gakuryu |
| It’s Only Talk | Yawarakai Seikatsu | 2005 | HIROKI, Ryuichi |
| Izo | 2004 | MIIKE, Takashi | |
| Jam Films 2 | 2003 | TAKAHASHI, Eiki; INOUE, Hide; KOJIMA, Junji; TANGE, Kouki | |
| Japanese Devils | Riben Guizi | 2001 | MATSUI, Minoru |
| Jeans Blues | Jiinzu Burusu Asunaki Buraiha | 1974 | NAKAJIMA, Sadao |
| Jigoku | 1960 | NAKAGAWA, Nobuo | |
| Jirokichi the Rat | Oatsurae Jirokichi Koshi | 1931 | ITO, Daisuke |
| Josee, The Tiger and the Fish | Joze to Tora to Sakanatachi | 2003 | INUDO, Isshin |
| Journey to the West | Saiyuki | 1960 | SHIRAKAWA, Daisaku; TEZUKA, Osamu; YABUSHITA, Taiji |
| Jubaku – Spellbound | Kinyu Fushoku Retto Jubaku | 1999 | HARADA, Masato |
| Juon | 2002 | SHIMIZU, Takashi | |
| Juon 2 | 2003 | SHIMIZU, Takashi | |
| Kakera – A Piece of Our Life | Kakera | 2009 | ANDO, Momoko |
| Kakuto | 2002 | ISEYA, Yusuke | |
| Kamikaze Girls | Shimotsuma Monogatari | 2004 | NAKASHIMA, Tetsuya |
| Kamikaze Taxi | Fukushu no Tenshi Kamikaze Taxi | 1995 | HARADA, Masato |
| Kanikosen | 2009 | SABU | |
| Karaoke Terror | Showa Kayo Daizenshu | 2003 | SHINOHARA, Tetsuo |
| Kenya Boy | Shonen Keniya | 1984 | OBAYASHI, Nobuhiko |
| Kikujiro | Kikujiro no Natsu | 1999 | KITANO, Takeshi |
| Kill! | Kiru | 1968 | OKAMOTO, Kihachi |
| Koi no Mon: Otakus in Love | Koi no Mon | 2004 | MATSUO, Suzuki |
| Kokkuri | Kokkuri-san | 1997 | ZEZE, Takahisa |
| Kwaidan | Kaidan | 1965 | KOBAYASHI, Masaki |
| Labyrinth of Dreams | Yume no Ginga | 1997 | ISHII, Sogo |
| Lady Oscar | Berusaiyu no Bara | 1979 | Demy, Jacques |
| Lake of Dracula | Noroi no Yakata Chi o Suu Me | 1971 | YAMAMOTO, Michio |
| Late Bloomer | Osoi Hito | 2004 | SHIBATA, Go |
| License to Live | Ningen Gokaku | 1999 | KUROSAWA, Kiyoshi |
| Linda Linda Linda | 2005 | YAMASHITA, Nobuhiro | |
| Little Birds | Ritoru Bazu Iraku Senka no Kazoku-tachi | 2004 | WATAI, Takeharu |
| Little Wing | Yumeno | 2005 | YAMADA, Yoshitaka |
| Live Tape | Raibu Tepu | 2010 | MATSUE, Tetsuaki |
| Live Today, Die Tomorrow | Hadaka no Jukyusai | 1970 | SHINDO, Kaneto |
| Lonely Cow Weeps at Dawn, A | Chikan Gifu Musuko no Yome to... | 2003 | GOTO, Daisuke |
| Love / Juice | 2000 | SHINDO, Kaze | |
| Love and Honor | Bushi no Ichibun | 2006 | YAMADA, Yoji |
| Love Letter | 1995 | IWAI, Shunji | |
| Maiko Haaaan!!! | 2007 | MIZUTA, Nobuo | |
| Maison de Himiko | Mezon do Himiko | 2005 | INUDO, Isshin |
| Makioka Sisters, The | Sasameyuki | 1983 | ICHIKAWA, Kon |
| Malice@Doll | 2001 | MOTONAGA, Keitaro | |
| Mandala | Mandara | 1971 | JISSOJI, Akio |
| MARKS | Makusu no Yama | 1995 | SAI, Yoichi |
| Marronnier | 2004 | KOBAYASHI, Hideyuki | |
| Matango | 1963 | HONDA, Ishiro | |
| Matsugane Potshot Affair, The | Matsugane Ransha Jiken | 2006 | YAMASHITA, Nobuhiro |
| Memories of Matsuko | Kiraware Matsuko no Issho | 2006 | NAKASHIMA, Tetsuya |
| Mermaid in the Manhole, The | Za Ginipiggu Manhoru no naka no Ningyo | 1991 | HINO, Hideshi |
| Midori – The Girl in the Freak Show | Shojo Tsubaki | 1992 | HARADA, Hiroshi |
| Millennium Actress | Sennen Joyu | 2002 | KON, Satoshi |
| Mirrored Mind | Kyoshin | 2004 | ISHII, Sogo |
| Mishima: A Life in Four Chapters | 1985 | Schrader, Paul | |
| Miyoko | Miyoko Asagaya Kibun | 2009 | TSUBOTA, Yoshifumi |
| Monument to the Girls’ Corps | Aa Himeyuri no To | 1968 | MASUDA, Toshio |
| Moon and Cherry | Tsuki to Cherri | 2005 | TANADA, Yuki |
| Moon Child | 2003 | ZEZE, Takahisa | |
| Moonlight Whispers | Gekko no Sasayaki | 1999 | SHIOTA, Akihiko |
| Mr. Thank You | Arigatou-san | 1936 | SHIMIZU, Hiroshi |
| Mt. Head – Koji Yamamura Animation Works | Atama Yama Yamamura Koji Sakuhinshu | 2006 | YAMAMURA, Koji |
| My House | Bokunchi | 2002 | SAKAMOTO, Junji |
| Mysterians, The | Chikyu Boeigun | 1957 | HONDA, Ishiro |
| Nagisa | 2000 | KONUMA, Masaru | |
| Naked of Defenses | Mubobi | 2008 | ICHII, Masahide |
| Nana | 2005 | OTANI, Kentaro | |
| Nanami, First Love | Hatsukoi Jigokuhen | 1968 | HANI, Susumu |
| Nanayo | Nanayomachi | 2008 | KAWASE, Naomi |
| Nasu: Summer in Andalusia | Nasu Andarushia no Matsu | 2003 | KOSAKA, Kitaro |
| Negotiator | Koshonin Mashita Masayoshi | 2005 | MOTOHIRO, Katsuyuki |
| Neighbour #13, The | Rinjin 13-go | 2005 | INOUE, Yasuo |
| Never Give Up | Yasei no Shomei | 1978 | SATO, Junya |
| New God, The | Atarashii Kamisama | 1999 | TSUCHIYA, Yutaka |
| Nightmare Detective | Akumu Tantei | 2006 | TSUKAMOTO, Shinya |
| No One’s Ark | Baka no Hakobune | 2002 | YAMASHITA, Nobuhiro |
| Nobody Knows | Daremo Shiranai | 2004 | KOREEDA, Hirokazu |
| Noisy Requiem | Tsuito no Zawameki | 1988 | MATSUI, Yoshihiko |
| Noriko’s Dinner Table | Noriko no Shokutaku | 2006 | SONO, Sion |
| Norwegian Wood | Noruwei no Mori | 2010 | Hung, Tran Anh |
| Not Forgotten | Wasurerarenu Hitobito | 2000 | SHINOZAKI, Makoto |
| Now, I… | Ima Boku wa | 2008 | CHIKUMA, Yasutomo |
| Oiran | 1983 | TAKECHI, Tetsuji | |
| Okaeri | 1995 | SHINOZAKI, Makoto | |
| Outsiders, The | Mori to Mizuumi no Matsuri | 1958 | UCHIDA, Tomu |
| Panic High School | Koko Dai Panikku | 1978 | ISHII, Sogo; SAWADA, Yukihiro |
| Paprika | Papurika | 2006 | KON, Satoshi |
| Party 7 | 2001 | ISHII, Katsuhito | |
| Patlabor 1: Mobile Police | Kido Keisatsu Patoreba The Movie | 1989 | OSHII, Mamoru |
| Patriotism | Yukoku | 1966 | MISHIMA, Yukio |
| Peep “TV” Show | 2003 | TSUCHIYA, Yutaka | |
| Perfect Blue | Pafekuto Buru | 1998 | KON, Satoshi |
| Perfect Blue – Yume Nara Samete | Perfect Blue Yume nara Samete | 2002 | SATO, Toshiki |
| Perfect Education, A | Kanzen Naru Shi-iku | 1999 | WADA, Ben |
| Ping Pong | Pinpon | 2002 | MASURI, Fumihiko |
| Pistol Opera | Pisutoru Opera | 2001 | SUZUKI, Seijun |
| Pokemon the First Movie: Mewtwo Strikes Back | Pokemon | 1999 | YUYAMA, Kunihiko |
| Pompoko | Heisei Tanuki Gassen Ponpoko | 1994 | TAKAHATA, Isao |
| Pornostar | Porunosta | 1998 | TOYODA, Toshiaki |
| Primitchibu World, The | Purimichibu na Sekai | 2009 | HIRAOKA, Kasumi |
| Princess in an Iron Helmet | Korogare! Tamako | 2006 | SHINDO, Kaze |
| Profound Desires of the Gods | Kamigami no Fukaki Yokubo | 1968 | IMAMURA, Shohei |
| Pulse | Kairo | 2001 | KUROSAWA, Kiyoshi |
| Pyuupiru 2001 – 2008 | Pyuupiru | 2009 | MATSUNAGA, Daishi |
| Rain Fall | Rein Foru Ame no Kibe | 2009 | Mannix, Max |
| Ramblers | Riarizumu no Yado | 2003 | YAMASHITA, Nobuhiro |
| Rampo | Rampo | 1994 | OKUYAMA, Kazuyoshi |
| Rampo Noir | Ranpo Jigoku | 2005 | JISSOJI, Akio; KANEKO, Atsushi; SATO, Hisayasu; TAKEUCHI, Suguru |
| Ravaged House, The | Tadareta Ie Zoroku no Kibyo | 2004 | KUMAKIRI, Kazuyoshi |
| Red Angel | Akai Tenshi | 1966 | MASUMURA, Yasuzo |
| Red Restraint | Akai Sokubaku | 2005 | KARATSU, Masaki |
| Red Shadow | Akakage | 2001 | NAKANO, Hiroyuki |
| Repast | Meshi | 1951 | NARUSE, Mikio |
| Returner | Ritana | 2002 | YAMAZAKI, Takashi |
| Ring, The | Ringu | 1997 | NAKATA, Hideo |
| Rockers | Rokkazu | 2003 | JINNAI, Takanori |
| S&M Hunter | Kinbaku SM 18-sai | 1986 | KATAOKA, Shuji |
| S-94 | 2009 | FUKUI, Shozin | |
| Sakuran | 2007 | NINAGAWA, Mika | |
| Samurai Commando | Sengoku Jieitai 1549 | 2005 | TEZUKA, Masaaki |
| Samurai Fiction | SF Samurai Fikushon | 1998 | NAKANO, Hiroyuki |
| Samurai Rebellion | Joiuchi Hairyo Tsuma Shimatsu | 1967 | KOBAYASHI, Masaki |
| Samurai Spy | Ibun Sarutobi Sasuke | 1965 | SHINODA, Masahiro |
| Sayon’s Bell | Sayon no Kane | 1943 | SHIMIZU, Hiroshi |
| Scene at the Sea, A | Ano Natsu Ichiban Shizuku na Umi | 1991 | KITANO, Takeshi |
| School of the Holy Beast | Seiju Gakuen | 1974 | SUZUKI, Norifumi |
| Score | Sukoa | 1995 | MUROGA, Atsushi |
| Scoutman | Pain | 2000 | ISHIOKA, Masato |
| Sea Is Watching, The | Umi wa Miteita | 2002 | KUMAI, Kei |
| Seance | Korei | 2000 | KUROSAWA, Kiyoshi |
| Secrets of a Court Masseur | Shiranui Kengyo | 1960 | MORI, Kazuo |
| Serpent’s Path | Hebi no Michi | 1998 | KUROSAWA, Kiyoshi |
| Shadow Hunters | Kagegari | 1972 | MASUDA, Toshio |
| Shall We Dance? | Shall We Dansu? | 1996 | SUO, Masayuki |
| Shikoku | 1999 | NAGASAKI, Shunichi | |
| Shisei: The Tattooer | Shisei | 2006 | SATO, Hisayasu |
| Shock Labyrinth 3D | Senritsu Meikyu 3D | 2009 | SHIMIZU, Takashi |
| Shogun’s Joy of Torture | Tokugawa Onna Keibatsushi | 1968 | ISHII, Teruo |
| Shojo | 2001 | OKUDA, Eiji | |
| Silver | Shiruba | 1999 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| Sixty Nine | 69 Sixty Nine | 2004 | LEE, Sang-il |
| Snake of June, A | Rokugatsu no Hebi | 2002 | TSUKAMOTO, Shinya |
| Soup One Morning, The | Aru Asa Supu wa | 2004 | TAKAHASHI, Izumi |
| Space Travelers | Spesu Toraberazu | 2000 | MOTOHIRO, Katsuyuki |
| Spirited Away | Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi | 2001 | MIYAZAKI, Hayao |
| Splatter: Naked Blood | Megyaku Akuma no Yorokobi | 1996 | SATO, Hisayasu |
| Star of David: Beauty Hunting | Dabide no Hoshi Bishojogari | 1979 | SUZUKI, Norifumi |
| Starfish Hotel | Sutafishu Hoteru | 2006 | Williams, John |
| Steamboy | Suchimuboi | 2004 | OTOMO, Katsuhiro |
| Stereo Future | Stereo Future SF Episode 2002 | 2001 | NAKANO, Hiroyuki |
| Still Walking | Aruitemo Aruitemo | 2008 | KOREEDA, Hirokazu |
| Story of Sorrow and Sadness | Hishu Monogatari | 1977 | SUZUKI, Seijun |
| Story of Wu Fong, The | Gijin Goho | 1932 | ANDO, Taro; CHIBA, Yasuki |
| Strange Circus | Kimyo na Sakasu | 2006 | SONO, Sion |
| Stranger from Afar, The | Marebito | 2004 | SHIMIZU, Takashi |
| Strawberry Shortcakes | Sutoroberri Shotokeikusu | 2006 | YAZAKI, Hitoshi |
| Stray Cat Rock: Sex Hunter | Noraneko Rokku Sekkusu Hanta | 1970 | HASEBE, Yasuharu |
| Stray Dog | Nora Inu | 1949 | KUROSAWA, Akira |
| Suicide Club | Jisatsu Sakuru | 2001 | SONO, Sion |
| Sukiyaki Western Django | 2007 | MIIKE, Takashi | |
| Summer Time Machine Blues | Sama Taimu Mashin Burusu | 2005 | MOTOHIRO, Katsuyuki |
| Sun Scarred | Taiyo no Kizu | 2006 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| Sunday’s Dream | Nichiyobi wa Owaranai | 1999 | TAKAHASHI, Yoichiro |
| Sway | Yureru | 2006 | NISHIKAWA, Miwa |
| Sweet Home | Suito Homu | 1989 | KUROSAWA, Kiyoshi |
| Sword of the Beast | Kedamono no Ken | 1965 | GOSHA, Hideo |
| Sword of Vengeance | Kozure Okami Ko o Kashi Ude Kashi Tsukamatsuru | 1972 | MISUMI, Kenji |
| Swords in the Moonlight | Daibosatsu Toge | 1957 | UCHIDA, Tomu |
| Takashi Ito’s Film Works | Ito Takashi Eiga Sakuhin-shu | 1980 | ITO, Takashi |
| Taro the Dragon Boy | Tatsu no Ko Taro | 1979 | URAYAMA, Kirio |
| Taste of Tea, The | Cha no Aji | 2004 | ISHII, Katsuhito |
| Tekkon Kinkreet | Tekkon Kinkrito | 2006 | Arias, Michael |
| Tel-Club | Natsi ni Umareru | 1999 | MURAKAMI, Kenji |
| Tender Place, A | Yawaraka na Ho | 2000 | NAGASAKI, Shunichi |
| Tetsuo: The Bullet Man | Tetsuo the Bullet Man | 2010 | TSUKAMOTO, Shinya |
| Tetsuo: The Iron Man | Tetsuo | 1989 | TSUKAMOTO, Shinya |
| Thinking and Drawing: Japanese Art Animation of the New Millennium | Shinkingu Ando Doroingu Nihon no Shinseiki Ato Animeshon | 2005 | OYAMA, Kei; SEIKE, Mika; TSUJI, Naoyuki; IKI, Norihiko; NOGAMI, Suwami; ISHIDA, Takashi; KURASHIGE, Tetsuji |
| This Transient Life | Mujo | 1970 | JISSOJI, Akio |
| Tokarev | Tokarefu | 1994 | SAKAMOTO, Junji |
| Tokyo Godfathers | Tokyo Goddofazasu | 2003 | KON, Satoshi |
| Tokyo Sonata | 2008 | KUROSAWA, Kiyoshi | |
| Tokyo Trash Baby | Tokyo Gomi Onna | 2000 | HIROKI, Ryuichi |
| Tomie | Tomie | 1998 | OIKAWA, Ataru |
| Tony Takitani | Toni Takitani | 2004 | ICHIKAWA, Jun |
| Train Man | Densha Otoko | 2005 | MURAKAMI, Shosuke |
| Tree Without Leaves | Rakuyoju | 1986 | SHINDO, Kaneto |
| Triangle | Sankaku | 2010 | YOSHIDA, Keisuke |
| Triple Cross, The | Itsuka Gira-gira Suru Hi | 1992 | FUKASAKU, Kinji |
| Tsumugi | Seifuku Bishojo Sensei Atashi o Daite | 2004 | TAKAHARA, Hidekazu |
| Turtles Are Surprisingly Fast Swimmers | Kame wa Igai to Hayaku Oyogu | 2005 | MIKI, Satoshi |
| Twilight Samurai | Tasogare Seibei | 2003 | YAMADA, Yoji |
| Ubume | Ubume no Natsu | 2005 | JISSOJI, Akio |
| Umineko – Inseparable | Umineko | 2004 | MORITA, Yoshimitsu |
| Umizaru | 2004 | HASUMI, Eiichiro | |
| United Red Army | Jitsuroku Rengo Sekigun Asama-sanso e no Michi | 2008 | WAKAMATSU, Koji |
| Urusei Yatsura: Only You | Urusei Yatsura Onri Yu | 1983 | OSHII, Mamoru |
| Uzumaki | 2000 | HIGUCHINSKY | |
| Vengeance Is Mine | Fukushu Suru wa Ware ni Ari | 1979 | IMAMURA, Shohei |
| Versus | 2000 | KITAMURA, Ryuhei | |
| Vibrator | Vaibureta | 2003 | HIROKI, Ryuichi |
| Virus | Fukkatsu no Hi | 1980 | FUKASAKU, Kinji |
| Visitor Q | Bijita Q | 2001 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| Vital | Vitaru | 2004 | TSUKAMOTO, Shinya |
| Vortex & Others: 5 Short Works by Yoshihiro Ito | Fukanshu Gemu, Imajinari Rain, Kachu no Hito, Sanma no Hi, Umeshinju | 2008 | ITO, Yoshihiro |
| Walking with the Dog | Inu to Arukeba Chirori to Tamura | 2004 | SHINOZAKI, Makoto |
| Warm Water Under a Red Bridge | Akai Hashi no Shita no Nurui Mizu | 2001 | IMAMURA, Shohei |
| Warped Ones, The | Kyonetsu no Kisetsu | 1960 | KURAHARA, Koreyoshi |
| Watcher in the Attic | Edogawa Rampo Ryokikan Yaneura no Sanposha | 1976 | TANAKA, Noboru |
| Whisper of the Heart | Mimi o Sumaseba | 1995 | KONDO, Yoshifumi |
| Whispering of the Gods, The | Gerumaniumu no Yoru | 2005 | OMORI, Tatsushi |
| Wicked City | Yoju Toshi | 1987 | KAWAJIRI, Yoshiaki |
| Wild Zero | 1999 | TAKEUCHI, Tetsuro | |
| Winter Days | Fuyu no Hi | 2003 | KAWAMOTO, Kihachiro |
| Wolves, The | Shussho Iwai | 1971 | GOSHA, Hideo |
| Woman Called Abe Sada, A | Jitsuroku Abe Sada | 1975 | TANAKA, Noboru |
| Woman in the Dunes | Suna no Onna | 1964 | TESHIGAHARA, Hiroshi |
| Woman Is Heard, A | Kikareta Onna | 2007 | YAMAMOTO, Masashi |
| Woman of Water | Mizu no Onna | 2002 | SUGIMORI, Hidenori |
| Yaji and Kita: The Midnight Pilgrims | Mayonaka no Yaji-san Kita-san | 2005 | KUDO, Kankuro |
| Yakuza’s Law: Lynching!, The | Yakuza Keibatsushi Rinchi | 1969 | ISHII, Teruo |
| Year One in the North | Kita no Zero-nen | 2005 | YUKISADA, Isao |
| Yoshino’s Barber Shop | Baba Yoshino | 2004 | OGIGAMI, Naoko |
| Yuriko’s Aroma | Yuriko no Aroma | 2010 | YOSHIDA, Kota |
| Zatoichi | 2003 | KITANO, Takeshi | |
| Zebraman 2 | Zeburaman Zebura Shiti no Gyakushu | 2010 | MIIKE, Takashi |
| Zegen | 1987 | IMAMURA, Shohei | |
| Zero Woman: Red Handcuffs | Zero-ka no Onna Akai Wappa | 1974 | NODA, Yukio |
| Zipang | Jipangu | 1992 | HAYASHI, Kaizo |
Features
September 3, 2012
The Lone Wolf Legacy, Part 1 – Baby Cart in Purgatory, or: Lone Wolf on TV
The first installment in Tom Mes's three-part trek in the footsteps of Lone Wolf and Cub, post-Baby Cart.
Historical Dictionary of Japanese Cinema
An exclusive spotlight on Jasper Sharp's brand new, indispensable reference work.
January 1, 2012
Midnight Eye’s Best (and Worst) of 2011
Tom Mes and Jasper Sharp weigh in with their pros and cons of the year 2011.
September 1, 2011
Japanese Independent Cinema Travels to Toronto: The 3rd Shinsedai Cinema Festival
Marc Saint-Cyr reports from the 2011 edition of Canada's showcase for the vital Japanese indie scene.
May 13, 2011
Post-Human Nightmares – The World of Japanese Cyberpunk Cinema
From Sogo Ishii to Yoshihiro Nishimura, by way of Akira and Tetsuo - cyberpunk remains a vital genre in Japanese film. An in-depth exploration by Mark Player.
March 14, 2011
The Independent Spirit of CALF and the Rise of Alternative Anime
The past decade has seen the rise of a new generation of independent animators in Japan. Catherine Munroe Hotes explores the lay of the land.
January 20, 2011
Midnight Eye’s Best (and Worst) of 2010
The makers of Midnight Eye reveal their favourites and dislikes in Japanese cinema of the year 2010.
The Best of 2010 – Poll Results
You, the Midnight Eye readers, have spoken... These Japanese films are your favourites of the year 2010.
September 30, 2010
Criminal Dance: The Early Films of Butoh Master Tatsumi Hijikata
Chris MaGee chronicles the cinematic legacy of butoh dance pioneer Tatsumi Hijikata, who worked with Donald Richie, Takahiko Iimura and Teruo Ishii among others.
June 1, 2010
Yasuzo Masumura: Passion and Excess
Tom Mes dissects the twisted works of Yasuzo Masumura, director of The Blind Beast, Red Angel and Giants and Toys, and a key influences on Japan's new wave.
March 29, 2010
Midnight Eye’s Best of the Decade
The makers of Midnight Eye bring you their best ten Japanese films from the first decade of the 21st century.
The Best of the Decade – Poll Results
Midnight Eye readers choose their favourite Japanese film of the decade.
January 25, 2010
Midnight Eye’s Best (and Worst) of 2009
Our contributors give you their likes and dislikes of the past year in Japanese film.
November 10, 2009
Nobuhiko Obayashi, Vagabond of Time
In Japan, he is the director of such perennial favorites as House and The Girl Who Leapt Through Time. In the rest of the world, he is all but unknown. Join us in discovering the unique world of a stylish, fascinating, versatile filmmaker. By Paul Roquet.
August 25, 2009
A History of Sex Education Films in Japan Part 3: The Seiten Films
Roland Domenig delivers the third chapter in his in-depth history of the Japanese sex education film.
July 13, 2009
Yubari Hangs Steadily On
In its second year after rising from its ashes, the Yubari International Fantastic Film Festival confirms its importance in discovering new talent. Includes an interview with director Tsuki Inoue. By Eija Niskanen
February 5, 2009
February 2, 2009
Midnight Eye’s Best (and Worst) of 2008
The new year wouldn't be the new year without the traditional best and worst lists from our contributors.
December 15, 2008
Jun Ichikawa – An Appreciation
Mark Schilling pays tribute to director Jun Ichikawa, director of Tony Takitani, Tokyo Marigold and many others, who died September 19, 2008.
August 22, 2008
Behind the Pink Curtain
An in-depth and exclusive spotlight on Behind the Pink Curtain, the groundbreaking book by Jasper Sharp.
June 17, 2008
Go! Go! Yubari
Tom Mes sends a postcard from the resurrection of one of Asia's finest festivals, the Yubari International Fantastic Film Festival.
May 17, 2008
Tomoyasu Murata and Company
A profile of one of Japan's most original animators, with a complete filmography. By Catherine Munroe Hotes.
January 18, 2008
Midnight Eye’s Best (and Worst) of 2007
It's that time again. We put our heads together to bring you our favourite and and not-so-favourite Japanese films of the past year.
May 14, 2007
Eiichi Kudo’s Guerrilla Filmmaking
Robin Gatto shines a much needed light on an obscure master of the chanbara film, Eiichi Kudo, director of The Great Killing and the original 13 Assassins.
March 22, 2007
A History of Sex Education Films in Japan Part 2: The Post-War Years and the Basukon Eiga
Roland Domenig continues his trek through the obscure history of the Japanese sex education film, in part 2 of this ongoing series.
February 11, 2007
Mikio Naruse – A Modern Classic
Eija Niskanen provides the perfect introduction to the work of this great creator of modest but extremely resonant films.
January 16, 2007
Midnight Eye’s Best (and Worst) of 2006
The makers of Midnight Eye get together to give your their traditional year-end lists.
December 29, 2006
Company Matsuo and the World of Japanese Adult Video
An in-depth look at the world of the japanese porn industry, guided by one of its most prolific practicioners, Company Matsuo, the master of hamedori. By Johannes Schönherr.
December 1, 2006
A History of Sex Education Films in Japan Part 1: The Pre-War Years
Special guest Roland Domenig illuminates another dark corner of Japanese film history, in the first of a four-part series.
October 13, 2006
Pia Film Festival 2006
Eija Niskanen reports from Tokyo's annual platform for new filmmakers and finds that this crucial festival remains as pioneering as ever.
September 29, 2006
Tiger! Tiger! Burning Bright – R.I.P. Tetsuro Tamba, 1922 – 2006
Ubiquitous yet unique - "Japan's Super Actor" remembered.
September 13, 2006
Nippon Connection’s Anti-Canon
Special guest Abé Mark Nornes discusses the importance and significance of Frankfurt's delightful Nippon Connection festival, and what it says about our changing views on Japanese film.
July 11, 2006
Recent Film Policy and the Fate of Film Criticism in Japan
The Japanese government's attempts to support film may have some adverse effects, as special guest Aaron Gerow observes.
June 8, 2006
Hollywood Japan File
A hard look at the more obscure recesses of the rich history of foreign films about Japan, packing in low budget film noir, Ed Wood-penned monster movies and Bollywood musicals. By Matt Kaufman.
May 3, 2006
Six Degrees of Kiefer Sutherland: The World of Anime Voice Acting
Anime authority Jonathan Clements kicks off our series of special guest features, with an odyssey through the weird world of anime voice acting.
March 7, 2006
January 22, 2006
Midnight Eye’s Best (and Worst) of 2005
The Midnight Eye folks present their lists of a year's worth of highs and lows.
December 22, 2005
The Death of J-Horror?
It has a rich past and an active present, but what about the future? A descent into the dark waters of Japanese horror film history, by Nicholas Rucka.
Strange Tales of Nobuo Nakagawa
Jason Gray and Tom Mes explore the length and breadth of the works by Japan's master of the macabre.
November 22, 2005
Light from the Rising Sun: Treasures of Japanese Silent Cinema at Pordenone
Alexander Jacoby delves into the silent past of Japan's oldest film studio and uncovers rare gems by the likes of Ozu, Shimizu, Naruse and Ito.
October 24, 2005
Remembering Kenji Misumi
A salute to one of the genre's late masters, as remembered by those who worked with him. By Robin Gatto and Tom Mes.
September 21, 2005
The Pia Film Festival and Jishu Eiga
A look at the impact and legacy of the PIA Film Festival and Japan's thriving 'jishu eiga' indie scene. By Jasper Sharp.
August 25, 2005
Underground Cinema and the Art Theatre Guild
A deeper look at the close symbiotic relationship between New Wave bastion ATG and Tokyo's cinematic underground of the 1960s. By Go Hirasawa.
June 15, 2005
Iron Man: The Cinema of Shinya Tsukamoto
An exclusive and in-depth spotlight on the book Iron Man: The Cinema of Shinya Tsukamoto by Tom Mes.
May 11, 2005
The Rise and Fall of Rokuro Mochizuki
Join us as we dive headlong into the sordid world of one of the major Japanese filmmakers of the past decade, who is only just starting to get his due in the West. By Tom Mes.
April 12, 2005
A Tribute to Kihachi Okamoto
Midnight Eye salutes the multi-faceted talents of director Kihachi Okamoto - of Sword of Doom, Human Bullet and Red Lion fame - who passed away at the age of 81.
March 6, 2005
February 28, 2005
Tomu Uchida at Tokyo FILMeX 2004
Jasper Sharp, Jason Gray and Tom Mes attended the Tokyo FILMeX festival's groundbreaking retrospective of the fascinating works of Tomu Uchida.
January 28, 2005
Midnight Eye’s Best (and Worst) of 2004
Our editors and contributors choose their annual likes and dislikes from a year's worth of Japanese films.
November 29, 2004
Japanese Anime and the Animated Cartoon
Anime boom? Globalisation of Japanese pop culture? Anime has been around us for a long, long time. And not just in the vicinity of Tokyo, Michael Arnold argues.
The Midnight Eye Guide to New Japanese Film
An exclusive spotlight on the book The Midnight Eye Guide to New Japanese Film by Tom Mes and Jasper Sharp.
November 1, 2004
Pioneers of Japanese Animation at PIFan – Part 2
Part 2 of Jasper Sharp's odyssey into the early days of Japanese animation.
September 23, 2004
Pioneers of Japanese Animation at PIFan – Part 1
When anime was in its infancy, a handful of men made an indelible mark on the genre. Jasper Sharp investigates.
August 4, 2004
Yusaku Matsuda: Lost Rebel
In praise of the life and career of one Japan's best-loved movie stars, who remains a virtual unknown abroad: Yusaku Matsuda. By Tom Mes.
June 28, 2004
The Anticipation of Freedom: Art Theatre Guild and Japanese Independent Cinema
Roland Domenig's in-depth look at the history of the production house whose name is synonymous with the Japanese New Wave.
May 17, 2004
A Salute to Tomio Aoki
Midnight Eye pays tribute to an actor whose career spanned the length of Japanese film history.
April 15, 2004
Hiroshi Shimizu – Silent Master of the Japanese Ethos
One of the most overlooked giants of Japanese cinema gets his due with this encompassing look at some of his early classics. By William M. Drew.
March 10, 2004
Samurai Cinema 101
Brush up your knowledge of samurai films with our introduction to Japanese cinema's most enduring genre. By Nicholas Rucka.
February 16, 2004
Midnight Eye’s Best (and Worst) of 2003
We at Midnight Eye reveal our favourite and not so favourite Japanese films of 2003.
December 8, 2003
The World of Yasujiro Ozu
Midnight Eye celebrates the centenary of "the most Japanese of directors".
November 5, 2003
Yamagata International Documentary Film Festival 2003 Report
Jasper Sharp writes in from one of the world's most respected documentary film festivals and discovers the real cutting edge of Japanese cinema.
September 20, 2003
Out of This World – Set Report
On set with director Junji Sakamoto for a recreation of post-war Japan that stars Peter Mullan, Joe Odagiri and Sho Aikawa. By Jason Gray.
August 4, 2003
PIFan 2003 Report
The inside scoop on one of Asia's fastest-growing and most interesting film festivals: the Puchon International Fantastic Film Festival. By Jasper Sharp.
July 1, 2003
Agitator: The Cinema of Takashi Miike
An exclusive spotlight on the book Agitator: The Cinema of Takashi Miike by Tom Mes.
May 12, 2003
Beyond Anime: A Brief Guide to Experimental Japanese Animation
A huge world of stunning Japanese animation exists beyond what we know as anime. Jasper Sharp uncovers some true gems.
February 17, 2003
January 22, 2003
In Memoriam Kinji Fukasaku (1930 – 2003)
Our humble tribute to one of Japanese cinema's true greats.
Midnight Eye’s Best (and Worst) of 2002
Midnight Eye's lists of the best, and worst, in Japanese cinema of 2002.
July 16, 2002
Forgotten Fragments: An Introduction to Japanese Silent Cinema
Benshi narrator Midori Sawato leads us on our second foray into the world of silent cinema. By Jasper Sharp and Michael Arnold.
March 7, 2002
February 28, 2002
January 23, 2002
Midnight Eye’s Best (and Worst) of 2001
Tom Mes and Jasper Sharp reveal their favourite Japanese films of 2001.
July 24, 2001
The Concert Films of Sogo Ishii
The early 80s punk scene, as captured on camera by one Sogo Ishii. By Tom Mes.
May 29, 2001
March 10, 2001
Tetsuji Takechi: Erotic Nightmares
Though his legacy as the godfather of pink film remains, Tetsuji Takechi's career is shrouded in mystery. Jasper Sharp unravels the enigma.
Book Reviews
Latest Book Reviews
Index
Historical Dictionary of Japanese Cinema, the new book by Jasper Sharp
The cinema of Japan predates that of Russia, China, and India, and it has been able to sustain itself without outside assistance for over a century. Japanese cinema’s long history of production and considerable output has seen films made in a variety of genres, including melodramas, romances, gangster movies, samurai movies, musicals, horror films, and monster films. It has also produced some of the most famous names in the history of cinema: Akira Kurosawa, Hayao Miyazaki, Beat Takeshi, Toshiro Mifune, Godzilla, The Ring, Akira, Rashomon, and Seven Samurai.Published by Scarecrow Press, The Historical Dictionary of Japanese Cinema is an introduction to and overview of the long history of Japanese cinema. It aims to provide an entry point for those with little or no familiarity with the subject, while it is organized so that scholars in the field will also be able to use it to find specific information. This is done through a detailed chronology, an introductory essay, and appendices of films, film studios, directors, and performers.
The cross-referenced dictionary entries cover key films, genres, studios, directors, performers, and other individuals. This book is an excellent access point for students, researchers, and anyone wanting to know more about Japanese cinema.
564 pages, ISBN-10: 0810857952, £59.95
More details on the Rowman & Littlefield Publishing Group website.
Awards
The Historical Dictionary of Japanese Cinema is named Library Journal's Best Reference Book for 2011!Reviews
"Japanese film authority Sharp (Behind the Pink Curtain: The Complete History of Japanese Sex Cinema) opens this landmark reference with an extensive chronology, noting the political and economic events that facilitated the development and expansion of Japan’s film culture… A nearly 100-page, by-theme bibliography is a treasure trove of research leads. To date, the most comprehensive English guide; its depth and breadth make it vital for film-studies collections."
—Library Journal
"There’s no doubt he delivers in ways that internet searches don’t... it would take many shots in the internet dark to piece together any one of these entries, let alone over 500 pages of them… leaves most previous synoptic histories standing, not only because it’s more up-to-date but also because it ranges into pop-genre, anime and indie areas which its predecessors have chosen to shun."
—Tony Rayns, Sight and Sound, July 2012
"A chunky hardback on long-lasting paper, and with a spine that stands up to heavy punishment, this robust tome from Scarecrow Press has contents to match, designed to ensure that absolutely nobody has any excuse. Japanese film doesn’t have to be mysterious, and all the firm grounding you need is right here…
it’s not just about the anime people. In fact, while it’s salutary to see them there, the anime people are not what makes this book valuable to the anime scholar. It’s everything else – the clear, concise histories of major film studios; the run-downs of important film legislation; the blunt statements of censorship facts; the bios of major actors and producers, all of which build up a picture of the Japanese film world as a whole…If you expect to earn some kind of capital from writing about Japanese film – be it hard cash or a tutor’s praises, then you should pester your library to put this book on their film shelves."
—Jonathan Clements, Manga UK
"Jasper Sharp has worked assiduously in an unyielding format and you would have to be very well-read not to mine new information from this resource."
—Roger Macy, Japan Society
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