The Japanese film industry has a rich history and has contributed numerous iconic films to world cinema. Here are some essential words and phrases related to the world of Japanese cinema:
1. 映画 (Eiga) – Film, movie
The art of motion pictures and filmmaking.
2. 日本映画 (Nihon eiga) – Japanese film
Films produced in Japan or made by Japanese filmmakers.
3. 監督 (Kantoku) – Director
The person responsible for overseeing and guiding the filmmaking process.
4. 俳優 (Haiyū) – Actor
A performer who portrays characters in films.
5. 女優 (Joyū) – Actress
A female performer who portrays characters in films.
6. 脚本 (Kyakuhon) – Screenplay, script
The written text of a film, including dialogue and descriptions.
7. 撮影 (Satsuei) – Filming, photography
The process of capturing scenes with a camera.
8. 編集 (Henshū) – Editing
The process of selecting and arranging footage to create the final film.
9. 上映 (Jōei) – Screening, showing
The public showing of a film in a theater.
10. 映画館 (Eigakan) – Movie theater, cinema
A place where films are screened for the public.
11. プロデューサー (Purodyūsā) – Producer
The person responsible for managing various aspects of film production.
12. 視覚効果 (Shikaku kōka) – Visual effects
Digital or practical effects used to enhance the visual experience in a film.
13. 舞台裏 (Butai ura) – Behind the scenes
The backstage or hidden aspects of filmmaking.
14. フィルムフェスティバル (Firumu fesutibaru) – Film festival
An event where films are screened and celebrated, often featuring competitions.
15. 撮影現場 (Satsuei genba) – Film set
The location or studio where filming takes place.
16. 音楽 (Ongaku) – Music
The musical score or soundtrack used in a film.
17. 評論家 (Hyōronka) – Film critic
A person who analyzes and critiques films.
18. 主題歌 (Shudaika) – Theme song
A song specifically written for a film, often used in the opening or closing credits.
19. 劇場版 (Gekijō-ban) – Theatrical version
A film adaptation of a television show or series.
20. 予告編 (Yokokuhen) – Trailer, preview
A short promotional video that provides a glimpse of a film’s content.
21. アニメーション映画 (Animēshon eiga) – Animated film
A film created using animation techniques.
22. 戦争映画 (Sensō eiga) – War film
A genre of film that depicts war-related themes and events.
23. 恋愛映画 (Ren’ai eiga) – Romance film
A genre of film focused on love and romantic relationships.
24. ドキュメンタリー (Dokyumentarī) – Documentary
A non-fiction film that presents real-life events, people, or topics.
25. アカデミー賞 (Akademī-shō) – Academy Awards, Oscars
The prestigious film awards presented annually in the United States.
26. 興行収入 (Kōgyō shūnyū) – Box office revenue
The total amount of money generated from ticket sales for a film.
27. 受賞 (Jushō) – Award, prize
The act of receiving recognition or a prize for a film.
28. フィルム・ノワール (Firumu nowāru) – Film noir
A genre of dark and atmospheric films, often featuring crime and mystery.
29. ファンタジー映画 (Fantajī eiga) – Fantasy film
A genre of film featuring magical or supernatural elements.
30. サスペンス映画 (Sasupensu eiga) – Suspense film, thriller
A genre of film characterized by tension and anticipation.
By familiarizing yourself with these words, you can gain a better understanding and appreciation of Japanese cinema, from classic works by legendary directors like Akira Kurosawa and Yasujirō Ozu to modern masterpieces from renowned filmmakers in contemporary Japan.
