Killers, Clients and Kindred Spirits: The Taboo Cinema of Shohei Imamura

Imamura Shohei is positioned as a stylistic innovator and ethnographic investigator into Japanese culture and tradition, exploring the hidden, barely repressed underpinnings of society.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 360 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Imamura Shohei's career is intricately woven into this collection, showcasing him as a pioneering stylist and an insightful ethnographic explorer of Japanese culture and tradition. With a keen eye for the hidden, barely repressed undercurrents of Japanese society, he emerges as the preeminent examiner of the enigmatic depths that shape this fascinating nation.

Imamura Shohei's artistic journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of creativity. From his early works, which explored the themes of alienation and isolation, to his later films, which delved into the complexities of Japanese society, he has consistently challenged conventional notions of storytelling. His films are characterized by their vivid imagery, innovative use of sound and color, and their ability to evoke powerful emotions in the viewer.

One of Imamura Shohei's most notable achievements is his exploration of the Japanese psyche. Through his films, he has delved into the complex web of emotions, desires, and fears that underpin Japanese culture. He has unearths the hidden tensions and conflicts that exist beneath the surface of everyday life, exposing the darker aspects of Japanese society that are often overlooked or ignored.

Imamura Shohei's films are also notable for their ethnographic significance. He has a deep understanding of Japanese culture and tradition, and his films are filled with references to historical events, cultural practices, and religious beliefs. Through his lens, the viewer is able to gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of Japanese culture and its enduring influence on the world.

In conclusion, Imamura Shohei's career is a testament to his remarkable talent and his unwavering commitment to exploring the depths of human experience. Through his films, he has given shape to a unique and powerful artistic vision, positioning him as a stylistic innovator and an ethnographic investigator into the rich tapestry of Japanese culture and tradition. His films continue to resonate with audiences around the world, reminding us of the power of storytelling to shed light on the hidden corners of our lives and to inspire us to think critically about the world we inhabit.

Weight: 548g
Dimension: 154 x 233 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474481366