Films

This course will include an analysis of some Japanese films and anime as a way of applying the concepts learned in the course to Japanese behavior as seen in the films and also to follow the presentation of certain social issues: role of Shinto in modern Japan, comfort women, educational system, corruption in government and business, family and the role of the arts in the life of Japanese women. Some of the films will be shown in class followed by discussion, some will be kept in the Hamilton Library video center for you to view outside of class. For your second written assignment you will be asked to choose one to summarize and answer questions about the social dynamics in the film.

“Sazae San” (anime) Sazae is a young Japanese housewife. The adventures of her and her family have been a staple of Japanese television for many years, since the 1950's. We will watch 3 short episodes. By clicking on the title you can get a translation.
	Inuyasha (anime) We will view the first 3 episodes of this anime series in class. It is a very popular series that has also come out in full length version. It will give a sense of the currentness of Shinto in Japanese society.
“A Taxing Woman” This film by Junzo Itami, follows the adventures of a tax agent (played by Nobuko Miyamoto) as she tried to find tax cheats.
	Princess Mononoke (anime) This film by Miyazaki looks at the issues around environmental preservation and the connection between Japanese culture and the country.
Japanese Education in Crisis exploring some of the issues around bullying, refusal to go to school and examination pressures.
	Karayuki-san This documentary was the first to bring the issue of sexual slavery during World War II to public attention.

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