Through the analysis of the work of the main Japanese animators starting from the pioneers of 1917 the book will overview the whole history of Japanese animated film including the latest tendencies and the experimental movies. In addition to some of the most acclaimed directors Miyazaki Hayao Takahata Isao Shinkai Makoto Tezuka Osamu and Kon Satoshi the works of masters of animation such as Kawamoto KihachirÅ Kuri YÅji ÅŒfuji NoburÅ and Yamamura KÅji will be analysed in their cultural and historical context. Moreover their themes and styles will be the linking thread to overview the Japanese producing system and the social and political events which have often influenced their works. Key Features Insight into both mainstream and independent cinemaScientific reliabilityEasy readabilitySocial and cultural context. Language: English