Tampopo* - This is a full length feature film by Juzo Itami. It is a comedy which follows the trials of a young widow trying to make a living for herself and her son through their ramen (noodle) shop. In a quest to make the 'perfect' bowl of ramen, they meet many interesting people as a result.
“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 4 short episodes. By clicking on the title you can get a translation. Sazae II
Tora San * (Otoko wa Tsurai yo! It's difficult to me a man)* This is the first in a series of 46 full length feature films based on the character of Tora-san. This is the longest series of films ever made. Which attests to the popularity of the film and gives us a look at an important segment of Japanese society. Click on the title for a translation of the dialog.
Inuyasha* - 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.
The Big O* - We will view the first 3 episodes of this series which seems to be a typical robot conflict story but goes beyond.
"Bunraku" - short film on the theater
“Noh”
This film
explores the world of Japanese ancient theater based on Buddhist views
of life.
“A Taxing Woman”* This film also by
Junzo Itami, follows the adventures of a tax agent (played by Nobuko
Miyamoto) as she tried to find tax cheats.
"Kabuki" - short film on the theater.
“Japanese Tea
Ceremony” (ocha), This film will take you to a tea
ceremony.
“Lover’s Exile”* (bunraku) This
film is a Japanese puppet play. Click on the title for a list of
characters and a summary of the plot.