Under Foreign Eyes

Focusing on the portrayal of post-World War II Japan in films made by foreigners, this book examines how outsiders, often unable to understand the language or culture, depict the nation and its people. It explores the reasons behind the prevalence of these films and their significance in shaping a cultural history of Western perceptions of Japan. The analysis reveals insights not only about contemporary Japan but also about the perspectives and biases of the filmmakers, highlighting the complexities of the Western gaze on Japanese society.