Tracing the development of the Japanese cinema from 1896 (when the first
Kinetoscope was imported) through the golden ages of film in Japan up to
today, this work reveals the once flourishing film industry and the
continuing unique art of the Japanese film. Now back in print with
updated sections, major revaluations, a comprehensive international
bibliography, and an exceptional collection of 168 stills ranging over
eight decades, this book remains the unchallenged reference for all who
seek a broad understanding of the aesthetic, historical, and economic
elements of motion pictures from Japan.