Japanese RELIGIONS in Film

This chapter explores the intricate tapestry of Japanese religious traditions as depicted in contemporary Japanese cinema. By analyzing seven representative films, it examines how elements of Shinto, Buddhism, animism, folk religions, and indigenous Ainu spirituality are depicted in cinema. Through a semiotic approach, the chapter highlights the use of religious symbolism and narratives in films like The Burmese Harp (1945/1985), Sweet Bean (2015), and Golden Kamuy (2024). It provides a foundation for understanding the nuanced portrayals of religion in cinema, while underscoring the importance of diverse representation in portraying Japanese religious life.