Akira Kurosawa
A Viewer's Guide
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Rowman & Littlefield
Published:15th Dec '18
Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back
This comprehensive guide examines the films of Akira Kurosawa, analyzing their cultural impact and artistic significance throughout his illustrious career.
This book offers an insightful exploration of the films created by Akira Kurosawa, a director whose works are not only artistic masterpieces but also pivotal cultural influences. His films have left an indelible mark on cinema, inspiring renowned filmmakers like George Lucas and Steven Spielberg. The author, Eric San Juan, delves into Kurosawa's extensive filmography, providing a thorough examination of each film’s cultural significance and the elements that contribute to their enduring enjoyment.
Spanning over fifty years, Kurosawa's career includes more than thirty films, many of which are considered classics, such as Rashomon, Ikiru, Seven Samurai, and Throne of Blood. Through this guide, readers gain a deeper understanding of the director's evolution and the themes that resonate throughout his work. San Juan's analysis not only highlights the narrative and stylistic choices Kurosawa made but also contextualizes his films within the broader landscape of global cinema.
In Akira Kurosawa: A Viewer’s Guide, each film is accompanied by a synopsis and a thoughtful analysis, shedding light on its significance. The book covers all of Kurosawa’s works, including lesser-known pieces like the television documentary Song of the Horse. With over twenty photographs and rich discussions, this guide caters to both cinema enthusiasts and those eager to learn about one of Japan's most celebrated directors.
Akira Kurosawa’s films are examined in detail in this enjoyable overview of the renowned director’s career from San Juan (Hitchcock’s Villains). Focusing on Kurosawa’s themes rather than his techniques, San Juan readily succeeds in his goal of creating an accessible appreciation of Kurosawa’s work. . . . Many of the tales from Kurosawa’s life, particularly regarding his relationships with his actors—including his master-pupil relationship with star Toshiro Mifune and long marriage to actress Yoko Yaguchi—are so intriguing that readers will wish this were a full biography. . . . This guide to a master filmmaker’s work has appeal for cinephiles and casual movie viewers alike. * Publishers Weekly *
The book is easy and pleasant to read, covers a lot of ground, and gives the reader an excellent foundation from which to better understand Kurosawa’s works. You need neither a film studies degree nor an understanding of Japanese culture to understand what is being said. The book should work very well for its intended audience. . . . Akira Kurosawa: A Viewer’s Guide is a very well written, welcome book that fills a space that has existed for a while in English language Kurosawa bibliography. Get the book if you are new to Kurosawa, or get it as a gift for someone who you think would be into Kurosawa if pushed a little into that direction. * Akirakurosawa.info *
ISBN: 9781538110898
Dimensions: 237mm x 159mm x 25mm
Weight: 526g
260 pages