Women in the Japanese Film Industry: The Disregarded Filmmakers

This thesis analyzes women's exclusion and discrimination within the Japanese film industry. Gender roles, Japanese ideologies, and historical events are introduced in order to comprehend women's position in society and their limited opportunities within the field of filmmaking. Societal developments from the late 19th century to the modern day are examined to define their effect on women's inclusion in the Japanese film industry. This thesis also aims to illuminate the pioneering female filmmakers of the 20th century and introduce current leading female figures, who have made their mark on the male-dominated film industry, encouraged aspiring female filmmakers, and thereby reducing gender inequality