A View on Japanese Customs as Depicted in Films and Figurines

Japanese culture has a rich tapestry woven into its popular media, particularly through iconic figures like Gojira (Godzilla) and Hello Kitty. These cultural artifacts do not merely entertain; they serve as reflections of Japanese society, values, and historical experiences. This essay aims to explore Japanese customs as depicted in films and figurines, examining how these representations contribute to a broader understanding of the culture.

Representation of Japanese Culture in Hello Kitty

Hello Kitty, created by Sanrio in 1974, is often perceived as a simple cute character. However, a deeper analysis reveals that she embodies several aspects of Japanese culture. The character's design features a small, mouthless face that conveys a sense of innocence and passivity. This can be interpreted as reflecting traditional views of femininity in Japan, where women have often been seen as nurturing and demure.

Moreover, Hello Kitty's global success—generating over a hundred million dollars in product sales and four hundred million in licensing fees—demonstrates the character's appeal across cultures. Her "irresistible" charm, as described by Christine R. Yano, speaks to the universal allure of cuteness, which is a significant aspect of Japanese culture known as "kawaii." This cultural phenomenon emphasizes innocence and childlike qualities, often found in various forms of Japanese media.

Gojira as a Cultural Symbol

In stark contrast to Hello Kitty's sweetness, Gojira serves as a representation of Japan's darker historical narratives, particularly regarding the trauma of nuclear warfare. The original 1954 film "Gojira" was released in the aftermath of World War II, a period marked by destruction and fear of nuclear attacks. Gojira symbolizes the anxieties of a nation grappling with its past and the implications of modern warfare.

Through the character of Emiko, a female lead in the film, we see a portrayal of traditional gender roles. Emiko's passive demeanor, characterized by her tears and frailty, reflects societal expectations of women during that era. However, her role is crucial in conveying the emotional depth of the narrative, demonstrating how cinema can integrate cultural elements to provide a more profound understanding of Japanese identity.

Comparative Analysis: Gojira and Them!

The American film "Them!" (1954) offers a fascinating juxtaposition to Gojira, as both films explore themes of fear and destruction through monstrous creatures. "Them!" features giant ants threatening humanity, serving as an allegory for the fears of the Cold War era and the atomic bomb testing conducted by the United States. Both films illustrate how popular culture can reflect societal anxieties during different historical contexts.

In "Them!", the portrayal of Joan Weldon as a strong scientist contrasts sharply with Emiko's passive character in Gojira. This difference highlights the evolving roles of women in American society compared to traditional Japanese roles during the same period. While Gojira reflects the submissive roles assigned to women, "Them!" showcases a more progressive view, aligning with America's post-war societal changes.

Modernization and Cultural Exchange

The interactions between Japanese and American cultures have facilitated a rich exchange of ideas and values. The Meiji Restoration marked Japan's transition into modernity, allowing for the integration of Western influences while still retaining core cultural values. The Pacific Century series illustrates how these interactions shaped Japanese culture and its response to American modernization efforts.

• Introduction of Western technology and education
• Influence of American fashion and music
• Changes in governance and societal structure

Despite initial resistance, Japan's exposure to American culture led to a blending of ideas, particularly in the realms of technology, fashion, and entertainment. This cultural exchange is evident in the popularity of anime and manga in the United States, as well as the embrace of Western pop culture in Japan.

Conclusion: The Interplay of Culture and Popular Culture

Through an analysis of Gojira, Hello Kitty, and Them!, we can observe the intricate relationship between culture and popular media. While these films and characters reflect distinct cultural narratives, they also highlight the shared human experiences of fear, hope, and resilience. The evolution of Japanese customs as depicted in films and figurines underscores the importance of understanding cultural representations in shaping our perceptions of society.

Ultimately, the interplay between Japanese and American cultures demonstrates that modernization and globalization are complex processes. As both nations continue to influence each other, the lines between cultures blur, allowing for a richer, more diverse global tapestry.

References:

• Yano, Christine R. "Hello Kitty: The Cultural Phenomenon." In Japanese Popular Culture and Globalization.
• "The Pacific Century." PBS Documentary Series.
• "Crisis of Modernity." Academic Journal on Modernization Processes.
• Them! Directed by Gordon Douglas, 1954.
• Gojira Directed by Ishirō Honda, 1954.