Beyond the High School Film

Reaching Adulthood in Everyday Japanese Cinema

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by Peter C. Pugsley

Type

Studies

Subject

Countries > Japan

Keywords

Japan, sociology

Publishing date

2026 (May 29, 2026)

Publisher

Edinburgh University Press

Language

English

Relative size

Physical desc.

Hardcover • 208 pages
6 x 9 ¼ inches (15.5 x 23.5 cm)

ISBN

978-1-3995-5879-2

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Book Presentation:
Provides the first in-depth, critical analysis into the enduring popularity of high school films in Japan

Unique demonstration of how Japanese films represent the transition from adolescence to adulthood
It offers ways of thinking about how young people in Japan follow ‘life courses’ that may be pre-determined by family or society
Shows how a strong connection exists for actors (and directors) to move from youth-oriented genres to more mature themed genres
Features illustrated examples of the films discussed and how this relates to source texts such as manga or anime
Signals key differences from Western cinematic depictions of young adult life
Beyond the High School Film: Reaching Adulthood in Everyday Japanese Cinema investigates recent live-action Japanese films that feature young adults and how they represent today’s culture and the shifts in behaviours and attitudes toward relationships (including same-sex relationships), marriage, disability and careers. Films such as Threads: Our Tapestry of Love (2020), Ride or Die (2021) and Teasing Master Takagi-san (2024) are part of a larger cohort of films that maintain a steady flow of financial success for their studios, directors and stars.

This book provides insights into a form of contemporary cinema that sits alongside Japan’s internationally acclaimed blockbuster anime and arthouse dramas. It tracks actors who have successfully transitioned from high school films to films dealing with young adulthood. These everyday films offer a look at contemporary Japan that resonates with domestic audiences and reflect the lives of young adults as they move beyond adolescence.

About the Author:
Peter Pugsley is Associate Professor in the Department of Media at the University of Adelaide, Australia. He is the author of Japanese High School Films (2022, EUP).

See the publisher website: Edinburgh University Press