Japan auteur Yamada sticks to exploring the human condition after 90 films

Yoji Yamada, a prolific Japanese filmmaker with a remarkable career spanning seven decades and 90 films, continues to explore the depths of the human experience. His renowned “Tora-san” series, which holds the Guinness World Record for the longest-running movie series featuring the same actor, has captivated audiences since its inception in 1969. Across its 48 installments, this heartwarming saga follows a kind-hearted peddler who consistently falls in love but never wins the affection of the object of his desire.

At the age of 92, Yamada remains dedicated to his craft, recently directing a Kabuki play—a traditional Japanese musical theater form dating back four centuries. In his signature style, Yamada imbued the production with his unwavering compassion for the underprivileged.

Yamada’s philosophy revolves around the exploration of what it means to be human. He emphasizes a deep interest in people, their existence, and how they navigate life. According to him, every individual possesses an inner goodness, akin to a shining pearl, waiting to be discovered.

Interestingly, Yamada draws parallels between his directing approach and Western-style “method acting.” He encourages his actors to start by merely existing when facing the camera, eschewing the need for overt performance. He finds that actors who believe they are good at their craft can sometimes struggle, as they tend to overact rather than authentically inhabit their characters.

In a departure from tradition, Yamada has introduced changes to Kabuki, which historically featured an all-male cast. He has incorporated new scenes and characters, including women, to enrich the narrative. This approach allows for a more comprehensive depiction of stories like that of Chobe, a skilled craftsman who falls into ruin due to his gambling addiction. Chobe’s journey, fraught with financial hardship and moral dilemmas, unfolds in a poignant and heartwarming manner.

Yamada’s filmography is diverse, ranging from the Oscar-nominated “The Twilight Samurai” to recent works like “It’s a Flickering Life” and the beloved “The Yellow Handkerchief.” Unlike some of his contemporaries in the Japanese New Wave, who delved into darker themes of sexuality and social brutality, Yamada has primarily focused on comedy and mass entertainment.

When asked about a potential reevaluation of his work, Yamada remains humble, staying true to his artistic vision. He has steered clear of excessive violence, explicit content, and high-octane action, favoring the human element in storytelling. His admiration for Western filmmakers such as Charlie Chaplin, Billy Wilder, Sian Heder, and Alexander Payne reflects his appreciation for character-driven narratives.

In his later years, Yamada has embraced the filmmaking style of Yasujiro Ozu, whom he once felt was lacking in his youth. Now, he considers actors like Ryu Chishu, who frequently appeared in Ozu’s and Yamada’s films, as exemplars of the craft.

Yamada likens the creative process in filmmaking to the patience of a hen incubating its eggs, drawing inspiration from the teachings of Mansaku Itami, a predecessor in the field. He believes that, like the hatching of a chick, true artistry emerges naturally, devoid of gimmicks or contrived planning.

As he continues to work on projects like the theatrical adaptation of Ozu’s “Tokyo Story,” which explores family dynamics and urban alienation, Yamada’s artistic journey remains a testament to his unwavering dedication to the human spirit. While the world may be enamored with high-flying jets and blockbuster spectacles, Yamada’s focus remains firmly on the timeless and profound aspects of what it means to be human.

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More about Filmmaker’s Exploration

• Yoji Yamada’s IMDb Profile
• Guinness World Records – Longest Running Film Series
• Kabuki Theater
• “Tora-san” Series Overview
• Yoji Yamada’s Filmography
• Japanese New Wave Cinema
• Charlie Chaplin
• Billy Wilder
• Alexander Payne
• Yasujiro Ozu
• Mansaku Itami