Clayton Dube
USC/UCLA Joint East Asian Studies Center
July 1997Educational Films on Asia
Notes: The number listed along with the title refers to video length in minutes. Where two prices are listed, the first is for purchase and the second for rental. In many instances discounts are available for purchase or rental of more than one title. Sources for these videos are indicated by the abbreviation following the capsule description. See "Sources" at the end of the list for a key to the abbreviations and for addresses and phone numbers.
While this is an extensive list, there's obviously much that I have not included. If you have any suggestions or comments please contact me at <cdube@isop.ucla.edu> or Clayton Dube, USC/UCLA Joint Center in East Asian Studies, UCLA 11266 Bunche Hall, Los Angeles, California 90095-1487 or (310) 825-0007. I would like to make this list more useful to educators by including films and videos particularly appropriate for elementary and junior high school students. Most of the titles listed here are intended for senior high or college students.
Because I have prepared a separate guide to feature films I have found useful in teaching about Asia, I have not included these excellent resources (e.g. Zhang Yimou’s To Live [Huozhe] for China since 1945, Ray’s Apu triology for rural India, and Imamura’s Black Rain for the prejudice suffered by atomic bomb survivors) here. Please refer to my guide: “On-Screen Asia.”
Scroll through the entire document or click on one of the following to jump to a particular section.
You may return to this table of contents by clicking on the "Contents" link at the end of each section.Cambodia
China
India
Indonesia
Japan
Korea
Malaysia
Mongolia
Nepal
Pakistan
Philippines
Singapore
Sri Lanka
Thailand
Tibet
Vietnam
Sources -- List of sources to rent or purchase the films included in this list.
Copyright ©1997-98 by the USC-UCLA Joint East Asian Studies Center
GeneralBrotherhood of Words, A 30
Comparison of how Western and Third World media choose the stories they publish
or broadcast. Includes looks at Zimbabwe, Morocco, the Philippines, and India. $99 [CC]Delicate Balance, The 30
Malaysia is the biggest producer of rubber, palm oil, and tin. Resource exploitation
and export driven industry dominate the Malaysian economy. This video looks at the
impact of economic change on ethnic harmony and social structure. $99 [CC]
Long Search, The
Eight part BBC series produced by Peter Montagnon and hosted by Ronald Eyre.
One part looks at Buddhism in Sri Lanka, another at Buddhism in Japan, and another at
Hinduism in India. Dated but still useful.Mini-Dragons, The
Series of four progams examines the politics, economics, and societies of Hong Kong,
Singapore,South Korea, and Taiwan. [F]
Pacific Century, The
Ten part series produced by Alex Gibney and written by his father Frank Gibney.
Broadcast on PBS in 1993. Highly recommended. Includes newsreel footage,
selections from feature films, and interviews with scholars and participants in the history
of Pacific Asia since the Opium War in 1839. Programs include: The Two Coasts of
China, Asia and the Challenge of the West; The Meiji Revolution; From the Barrel of a
Gun; Writers and Revolutionaries; Reinventing Japan; The Birth of Japan, Inc.; Big Business
and Confucius; The Fight for Democracy; Sentimental Imperialists; and The Future.
There’s an excellent book by Frank Gibney to accompany the series as well as a textbook,
teacher’s guide, and student’s guide designed to be used with the series. Particularly strong
on the Meiji Restoration, the impact of the American occupation on Japan, and on American
imperialism in China and the Philippines. Good segments on the struggle for democracy in the
Philippines and in Korea. [PBS]
Back to ContentsCambodia: Year Zero, Year One 120
John Pilger looks at the effects of bombing during the Vietnam War and the Khmer Rouge
takeover. [F]
Cambodia: Year Ten 58
Program studies the effect of Pol Pot's Khmer Rouge on the lives of Cambodians. Looks at
the effort to return Cambodia to an iron age agrarian economy. Filmed prior to Vietnam's
departure from Cambodia and includes speculation on what will follow. $149/$75 [FHS]Back to Contents
ChinaBattle of China 60
Part of the US Government's World War II propaganda series "Why We Fight." This
series was originally intended to indoctrinate US soldiers as they prepared to enter
combat, but President Roosevelt decided that it should be shown to the general public
to help marshal support for the war effort. Directed by Arthur Litvak under the general
supervision of Frank Capra. Interesting for its stark presentation of the "virtuous Chinese"
and the "cunning and determined Japanese." Most useful for examining American
perceptions of East Asia. Available from many retailers, including The Scholar’s Bookshelf,
for about $12.
Beyond the Clouds 240
Investigates life in Lijiang, a Naxi minority region of Yunnan province. Follows police
investigation of a murder, the activities of an independent businessman, the effort of a
college teacher to help her handicapped daughter, and the concerns of a doctor that his
practice be continued. Fascinating, but clearly teachers will need to select short segments
for presentation to the class. [NG and PBS]
Biography: Genghis Khan 55
Mix of interviews with scholars (such as Morris Rossabi), feature film footage, and still
images on the great Mongol ruler of the thirteenth century. [AE]
Biography: Marco Polo 55
Investigates the life and adventures of the mediveal merchant who introduced China
to Europe. [AE]China Call, The 58
Subtitled "American Missionaries in China" and the second in a six part series "The Dragon
and the Eagle." Interviews and diary accounts are supplemented with newsreel footage
and film from personal collections. [FHF]
China in Revolution 110
Written, directed, and produced by Sue Williams in 1989. Two parts (1911-1936, 1937-
1949) trace the Chinese experience from the 1911 revolution ending the imperial era to the
communist triumph. Rich interviews and use of newsreel footage. Highly recommended.
Easily the best work now available on twentieth-century Chinese political history.
$129 or $199 for this set and "The Mao Years." IU rental: $17.75 each. [Z]
China Now 30
A 1990 WNET production. Available for $9.95 rental from IU.China on the March
Enakashi Bhavani's documentary on the early years of Communist rule in China
(1949-1958). [F]
China's Cosmopolitan Age: The Tang (1993) 60
Written and produced by Professor Chung-wen Shih, examines the golden age of Chinese
culture. During the Tang dynasty (seventh-ninth centuries), China was remarkably open
to foreign trade and ideas. It was great era for music, dance, poetry, and art and
represented the period in Chinese history where Buddhism had its greatest influence.
Parts of the documentary are extraordinary, but its pacing is uneven. There is a review of
this film in Education About Asia (v. 2 n.1, spring 1997). Available for IU rental: $12.45.
Also available from PBS.China Kaleidoscope
This series was put together by Nan Hai Arts Center from Chinese television news magazine
shows. It provides an opportunity to get a Chinese perspective on Chinese life. There are
four tapes available, each 50 minutes long. Contact Nan Hai for a detailed list of subjects
on the various tapes. For example, Tape 1 includes Beijing's Markets, The Water Shortage
in Xi'an, Life in a Chinese Village, the Li Yuan Theater in Beijing, China's Pop Stars Go On
Tour, Fashion in Beijing, Women Police Officers in Training, and more. The tapes are in
mandarin with English subtitles. Each is $34.95, the set is $125.82.China, The Cold Red War 70
Studies the ideological (and sometimes shooting) war between the Soviet Union and the People's
Republic of China in the late 1960s and early 1970s. [F]China: The Long March 48
A 1986 production on the thousands of miles retreat to Yan'an. $16.50 rental from IU.China: The Middle Kingdom (1985) 50
Available for rent from Kent State ($30.50). Addresses the people, the environment, and
customs. [KU]Chinese History Series
Produced for Indiana University, videotapes are available for purchase but not for rent.
16 mm films are available for rent ($20 each). Tapes are generally 20 minutes long.
The Beginnings
The Making of A Civilization
Hundred Schools to One
The First Empires
The Great Cultural Mix
The Golden Age
The Heavenly Khan
The Age of Maturity
Under the Mongols
The Restoration
The Manchu Rule
The Coming of the West
The Enduring Heritage
For many years, these were the only works available on earlier periods of Chinese history
and they remain unusual in their complete coverage. Some segments are much better than
others. Most consist of narration over still images.Chinese Prison Labor: Inside China's Gulag 52
Harry Wu spent 19 years in China's reform through labor prison camp system. In the 1980s
and 1990s he has returned to China to investigate and film conditions in the camps. Here
he shows the nature of imprisonment and the economic benefits the regime derives from
prison production. Wu’s films have been shown on British television and on CBS’s 60 Minutes.
$149/$75 [FHS]Dateline: 1989, Tiananmen Square 23
[IU]Felix Greene's One Man's China
This is a 1973 series, one of the first to come from China. They are on 16 mm film and are
25 minutes in length. They can be rented from Kent State ($15.75 each). They reflect
the sort of generous view held by many Western progressives about China during the
Cultural Revolution.A Great Treasure House -- Medicine in China
Eight or Nine in the Morning
Friendship First, Competition Second
One Nation, Many Peoples
Self-Reliance
The People's Army
The People's CommunesFirst Emperor of China, The
Qin Shi Huang's story and tomb are explored in this laserdisc. Coverage includes the
initial excavation in 1974 and detailed discussion of the finds so far. [F]Gate of Heavenly Peace, The (1995)
The 1995 Richard Gordon/Carma Hinton (Longbow) documentary for PBS is remarkably
well supported on the web, including links to a wide variety of primary source selections
and biographical entries on key players in the Beijing Spring drama. Highly recommended
three hour documentary which reveals the miscalculations made by student leaders and
Chinese officials. Includes a weath of interviews. Controversial in China and in the exile
community. Visit the website at http://www.nmis.org/gate/. Twice shown on PBS’s
Frontline series to mark the June 4th anniversary of the suppression of the movement.
Generations: A Chinese Family 28
Produced by Maryknoll Media. Looks at how a contemporary family preserves its traditions
while dealing with the modern world. [F]Genius That Was China, The (1990)
Interesting but often inaccurate depiction of China's glory and relative decline. Based in large
on the Joseph Needham Science and Civilisation in China series.
Available for rent from Indiana University ($17.75 each) and Kent State ($33.75 each).
Four 58 minute videos: Rise of the Dragon; Empires in Collision, The Threat from
Japan; and Will the Dragon Rise Again? A Film Australia production. There
is a well-illustrated book published under a couple of titles (including The Genius)
to accompany the series.Heart of the Dragon, The
Produced by Peter Montagnon and a British film crew in 1981-1983 and originally
broadcast in the US in 1985, this twelve hour series features outstanding looks at
everyday life in rural and urban China. The crew had remarkable access and examined
the full range of human activity. The programs are: Remembering (interaction between
tradition and modernity in today's China), Eating (agriculture, food, festivals), Living
(village life), Believing (Confucianism, Buddhism, and Daoism's persistence in China,
challenge of communism), Caring (mental health treatment), Marrying (rural marriage,
ceremonies, and celebrations), Mediating (divorce), Working (industrial labor), Correcting
(law, courts, and punishment), Creating (art, music), Understanding (science, ecology), and
Trading (economic development, foreign trade). Though some segments are a bit dated
(particularly those dealing with economic matters), this remains the best comprehensive
series on contemporary China.A series of 26 half-hour lessons has been recently constructed from the original programs
along with new presentations from specialists. This series is called "The Chinese." [PBS]The University of Michigan Center for Chinese Studies has published two editions of
The Chinese to accompany the series and there are also student and teacher guides
available.Legacy: China 60
One of the segments in the six part series written and hosted by Michael Wood. Looks at
religion, philosophy, bureaucratic government, and trade. [PBS]Misunderstanding China 52
16 mm film, a 1972 CBS Reports production with Charles Kuralt. This is an outstanding,
if dated production drawing on film clips to demonstrate shifting, and usually inaccurate,
perceptions of China. Produced at the time of Nixon’s visit to the PRC. Highly
recommended. $24.65 rental from IU.Nightline: Student Protest in China 30
Focus on the Tiananmen Square democracy demonstrations of 1989. Includes interviews
with Chinese reporters, officials, and others. [F]North China Commune 81
Produced by the National Film Board of Canada. This video explores life on a commune
in rural North China. Decollectivization of agriculture has occurred since this video was
made, but it is a useful look at practices during the Mao era. [F]Nova: Can China Kick the Habit? 55
Introduced by former U.S. Surgeon General C. Everitt Coop, video examines China's
experience with tobacco and the current effort to reduce addiction. Program looks at
the popularity of foreign brands and the effort to expand market share.
Originally produced in 1989, broadcast in 1994. Raises excellent questions about the
ethics of increasing US exports of tobacco while trying to curtail its use by Americans. [PBS]Nova: China's Only Child (1987) 55
British production which examines how China's one-child family policy is carried out
in Changzhou, a southern city. Includes interviews with officials and others. Excellent. [PBS]Mao by Mao 28
A video examination of Mao's philosophy and practices as revealed in his own writings. $90
[FHS]Mao Years, The 110
Part I: Catch the Stars and the Moon, 1949-1960
Part II: It's Right to Rebel, 1961-1976
Sequel to China in Revolution, written, produced and directed by Sue Williams.
Outstanding narrative history of China during the Mao era. Includes extensive
interviews and documentary film footage. $129 or $199 if purchased with "China in Revolution."
[Z]One Village in China
Produced by Richard Gordon and Carma Hinton. This team had unparalleled access to the
people of Long Bow, a village made famous by William Hinton's books on land reform (Fanshen)
and collectivization (Shenfan) there. A half hour high school version of these documentaries
are also available. Excellent videos.All Under Heaven (1985) 58
Change and continuity in rural China.First Moon (1987) 37
Focuses on rural Chinese celebrations of the lunar new year.Small Happiness (1984) 58
Examines the place of women in rural society and the impact of the Communist Party
on gender relations. The best known of the series and the best documentary
available on marriage and women.To Taste A Hundred Herbs (1986)
Examines the life and work of a Catholic doctor in Long Bow. [LB]Re-education in Shanghai 56
Visit a re-education facility to see how the thought of laborers, bored wives, businessmen,
and party members is reformed. $149/$75 [FHS]Religion and Culture in China 28
A Maryknoll Media documentary on the revival of religious practice in contemporary
China. [F]Salisbury's Report on China: The Revolution and Beyond 150
Harrison Salisbury, distinguished author and journalist, hosts this series which traces
the Communist era in China from the civil war to the democracy protests of the 1980s.
Three parts: I, The Leaders of the Revolution; II, Slogans and Policies; and III, From
Liberalization to Crackdown. $249 [FHS] Available for rent from Kent State for $15.75
per program. Salisbury’s books on the Long March and on Mao and Deng are helpful
resources for teaching about twentieth-century China.
Silk Road, The
Two sets of six one hour videos. These programs explore the art, history and culture
of China and Central Asia. The Silk Road linked Europe and China and was travelled
by Marco Polo. 1992 production of Chinese Central Television and Japan's NHK.
Available for $149.95 per set from PBS.Set I: Glories of Ancient Chang'an; One Thousand Kilometers Beyond the Yellow River;
Art Gallery in the Desert (Dunhuang); The Dark Castle; In Search of the Kingdom of Lou-
lan; and Across the Taklamakan Desert.Set II: Khotan: Oasis of Silk and Jade; A Heat Wave Called Turfan; Through the Tian Shan
Mountains by Rail; Journey Into Music -- South Through the Tian Shan Mountains; Where
Horses Fly Like the Wind; and Two Roads to the Pamirs. [CT, F, and PBS]These videos are also available from the Indiana University film library ($12.15 each).
Something for Everyone 28
1979 Film Australia production on 16 mm film. Follows a family in its life on a Guangdong
commune. $18.75 rental [KU]Students and Teachers 10
A 1973 Xerox/ABC production on 16 mm film. Consists of interviews during the
Cultural Revolution. $8.50 rental. [KU]Suzhou 31
1980 production on 16 mm film. Looks at the culture, history and economy of this
well-known city.University of California production. $18.75 rental [KU]Tragedy at Tiananmen: The Untold Story 60
1989 production, $17.75 rental [IU]Unruly Dragon: The Yellow River 47
Produced in 1990. $17.75 rental [IU]Week in the Life of a Chinese Student, A 20
A 1986 AIMS Media production on 16 mm film. Follows a junior high school student.
$13 rental [KU]Back to Contents
Caste at Birth 53
1991 production. $21.50 rental [IU]Dadi and Her Family: A Rural Mother-in-Law in North India 45
Best available film on women in rural India.Designing Women: Lifting the Veil 30
Two Indian women argue that women can succeed in business, even in the Arab world
(especially in Jordon). They also contend that developing economies possess
entrepreneurs that can succeed in the world economy. $99 [CC]Eastern Spin 23
Women in northern India and Nepal believe in "trade, not aid." Video follows their
production of goods through export to the consumer. $99 [CC]Faces of Man Series: India 23
Looks at caste, cites, and rural areas. 1986 production. $14 [IU]
Four Holy Men: Renunciation in Hindu Society 37
$11.50 rental [IU]Fourth State, The: A Hindu's Quest for Release 40
1984 production, $11.50 rental [IU]Ganges, The 45
Addresses the history, geography, and legend of India's holiest river. $149$75 [FHS]Great Indian Railway, The 115
A National Geographic production which takes viewers on one of the world's largest
and most remarkable rail systems. See the Himalayas, the Ganges, and the cities. $19.95
[PBS]Harvard Film Series, Film Study Center at Harvard University
Films examine devotion in Vishnupur, West Bengal. Each is available for $99, package
discounts are available.Loving Krishna 40
Examines the link between the cult of Krishna, commerce, and everyday life.Serpent Mother 27
Myth of the goddess, Manasha, is studied. Includes scenes of manufacturing images
and of the festival of the snakes.Sons of Shiva
4 day annual festival celebrates the god of destruction (and creation). Includes scenes
of chanting and of sadhus (wandering ascetics). [CC]Hindu Ascetics 44
Focuses on the sadus (penitents), fakirs, and yogi -- Hindu holy men. There is also a
comparison of their beliefs and practices with those of ancient Hindu and Buddhist
devotees. $149/$75 [FHS]In the Name of God 96
1991 production, $27.75 [IU]India: From Moghuls to Independence 42
Covers the extension of Mongol power into India through Tamerlane and Babur.
Moghul rule is examined as is the British colonial period. $149/$75 [FHS]India: Land of Spirit and Mystique 55
Produced in London by International Video Network. This is a well-done travelogue
which introduces something of India's art, architecture, and culture. Found in many
rental shops.
India: Women's Rights 28
Examines the deplorable and dangerous circumstances of women's lives. $99, available for
rent from Kent State ($18.75). Deals with female infanticide, battered wives and
violence over dowries. [CC]Legacy: India 60
One of the six part series written and hosted by Michael Wood. Looks at religion,
philosophy, government, and trade. [PBS]Marketing Mystique 30
Asia's biggest hotel chain, the Taj, dispels myths about India and has become a huge
economic success. [CC]Munni C 20
Life of a young girl learning the traditional art of Mithali painting in a Bihari village.Nightline: Assassination of Indira Gandhi 30
Looks at the 1984 murder of India's long time prime minister. [F]Principles of Caste 26
A 1980 16 mm film production. $15.75 rental from Kent State.Rajiv Gandhi: Death of a Dynasty 26
Produced by ITN's C. Sheridan and D. Hamill in 1991 following Gandhi's assassination.
Video begins with discussion of the assassination and then traces the twentieth-century
history of India. Concludes with the on-going struggle in Sri Lanka, a struggle which
Gandhi intervened in, an action that may have cost him his life.Ravi Shankar: The Man and His Music 60
Examines the instruments and the structure of his music as well as his philosophy toward
music. Shows Shankar playing with Yehudi Menuhin, Zubin Mehta, Jean-Pierre Rampal,
and George Harrison. $149/$75 [FHS]
Rana C 25
Young female Muslim student in Delhi.Russi Mody: India's Man of Steel 30
Mody turned a small company into India's largest private firm. Video argues that private
enterprise is the route to economic development. [CC]School Story 30
Looks at one school in backwater India (in Haryana state) and in urban Amman, Jordan.
Considers the role of education in economic development and social progress. [CC]Storyteller in the Bazaar 30
Sashi Tharoor, well-known Indian author, challenges the images Westerners have of India
and the ideas about development that are widely held. Tharoor argues India is
highly developed and happens to be in a state of decline. [CC]Timeless Village of the Himalayas 35
Devprayag a vestige of 5,000 year old Vedic culture. Won first prize from American
Video Conference. [CC]Wedding of the Goddess
Part I C 36
History of the Chittirai festival in Madurai, Tamilnadu.
Part II C 40
Film of the 19 day festival honoring the Goddess.Back to Contents
Conquest of Indonesia, The 50
Recounts the efforts of the United Dutch East India Company to monopolize trade in
pepper and other spices. The effort began in the late sixteenth century. $90 [FHS]Indonesia: When Invaders Became Colonists 50
Discusses the Dutch colonization of Indonesia. $90 [FHS]Indonesia's Doctor of Happiness 30
Dr. Suyono travels about promoting small families. Abortions are illegal in Indonesia
and the government promotes birth control through economic incentives. [CC]Only in Indonesia: Arts and Culture 30
The melting pot of southeast Asia, includes Hindu temple remains and dances. [CC]Only in Indonesia: Commerce and Industry 30
Explores a variety of industries and creative approaches to making a living. [CC]
Back to ContentsAging in Japan: When Traditional Mechanisms Vanish 45
The video takes place in a bath house, where the elderly fight isolation. $90 [FHS]Autumn Rain: Crime in Japan 30
Follows two young policeofficers after graduation from academy into the neighborhood
police boxes. Includes interviews with yakuza, members of organized crime groups.
[CC]
Budo Sai: The Spirit of the Samurai 70
Twelve martial arts masters demonstrate their skills and mental discipline at the Budo
Sai festival. $149/$75 [FHS]Faces of Japan
Multipart series produced in the 1970s, but still useful. Each segment is a half hour long
and focuses on one issue from foreigners doing business in Japan to the craftsmanship
evident in sword manufacturing. Edwin O. Reischauer’s The Japanese (recently updated
by M. Jansen) was the companion volume.Hidden Japan, The 25
Produced by Maryknoll Media. Looks at Japanese outcasts: homeless, drug addicts,
and alcoholics. Follows the efforts of Maryknoll missionaries and Japanese volunteers
to address these social problems. [F]Hirohito: Japan in the 20th Century 58
Hirohito reigned over most of Japan's 20th century. This video covers the depression,
the invasion of Manchuria, the exit from the League of Nations, the rise of militarism,
the war, surrender, and postwar economic growth. $159/$75 [FHS]Hiroshima: The Legacy 30
A visit to the peace museum in Hiroshima. The message is that a repeat of the
atomic bombing must somehow be avoided. $90 [FHS]Illustrated Handscroll: The Tale of Genji 60
The world's first novel was written by a woman, Murasaki Shikibu, in the eleventh
century. This video follows the story as it is depicted on a series of handscroll panels. [FHS]
In the Emperor's Name 55
Focuses on a group of naval officers who prepared to assault an allied base in Sydney
harbor.Their courage is still remembered in Japan today. [CC]Inside Japan: Industry and Management 25
Look at production of goods, Japanese stores and television ads, and the changing role
of women in the workplace. $99 [CC] $15.75 rental [KU]Inside Japan: Tradition and Family Life 23
Old world customs collide with modern society. Focuses on atypical settings: a family
living in small town Japan and a Japanese man married to an American woman.
4 stars from Video Rating Guide for Libraries [CC]Japan
Four hour series hosted by Jane Seymour (yes, “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman”).The Electronic Tribe
Contrasts between factory work and industrial life and traditional rural work and life.The Legacy of the Shogun
During the Tokugawa period three values were particularly promoted: diligence,
discipline, and hierarchy. These are partly responsible for Japan's more recent
economic successes and social structure.The Sword and the Chrysanthemum
The paradox of the martial and aesthetic sides of the samurai.A Proper Place in the World
Discussion of the world role to be played by Japan in the coming decades. [CT, F]Japan At Work 30
1987 production. $15.25 rental [IU]Japan Bashing 22
1992 production. $11.50 rental [IU]Japan: Behind the Mask 52
1990 production. $16.50 rental [IU]Japan Enters the World Scene: The Battle of Tsushima: 1905 41
Includes the Perry expedition, the triumph over China in 1895, and the war with Russia,
a victory which shocked the world. $90 [FHS]Japan: Past and Present
This five part series traces Japanese history from the seventh century centralization
along the Chinese model to the modern society which maintains many traditions.
The series is available for $749 and individual parts may be purchased for $159
or rented for $75.Buddha in the Land of the Kami (7th-12th Centuries) 53
Begins with Japanese creation myth and then addresses the adoption of Buddhism and
the creation of Heian aristocratic culture.The Coming of the Barbarians (1540-1650) 52
Sometimes called "Japan's Christian Century," this period represented a high point of
Japanese-European cultural and economic exchange, a period which came to an end
with the prohibition of Christianity and unauthorized contact with the West.The Age of the Shoguns (1600-1868) 51
The Edo or Tokugawa period saw remarkable peace and development, both economic
and cultural.The Meiji Period (1868-1912) 52
Discusses the "opening" of Japan by Perry and the subsequent fall of the Tokugawa
and then traces the remarkable modernization program pursued during the reign of the
Meiji Emperor.The Essence of Being Japanese 48
Looks at major events of the 20th century including the 1923 Kanto earthquake, the
rise of militarism and imperialism, the American occupation, and postwar development.
The focus is on isolating those things that make Japan distinct. [FHS]Japan Series, produced by the National Film Board of Canada
Children of the Tribe 28
Close family ties and intense focus on academics influence children's lives.
Won first prize at 25th Competition for Films on Japan (Tokyo)Japan, Inc. 28
Explores the factors behind Japan's economic success. Won award at US industrial
film festival.Japanese Woman 28
Interviews with women, look at lifestyles, and comparison with World War II. Won
second prize at 28th Competition for Films on JapanSatori in the Right Cortex 29
"Satori" is a sudden flash of enlightenment. Examines Japanese philosophical
traditions and their persistence in contemporary life. [CC]Japanese Economic Bubble, The 40
Examines the bubble economy of the 1980s and its collapse. Notes how Japanese
culture and economy is becoming less distinctly Japanese. $149/$75 [FHS]Japanese Tea Ceremony, The 30
While it originated in China, the Japanese have dramatically refined and preserved the
tea ceremony. This video focuses on the approach of the Omote Sen-ke school. $149/$75
[FHS]Japanese Version, The 55
Looks at how Japanese adapt Western cultural objects. Can be rented for $17.75 from
Indiana University. 1991 production. [CAM]Japanese Way of Life, The 25
1990 ABC production. $17.75 rental [IU] $15.75 [KU]Kabuki 56
Kabuki is more than four centuries old. This video introduces the history and current
state of kabuki, taking viewers to a rehearsal, and performance. [FHS]Kodo: Heartbeat Drummers of Japan 57
Traditional and contemporary drumming. [F]
Nightline: Akio Morita 30
Report on and interview with the founder of Sony. [F]Postwar Japan: 40 Years of Change 56
Offers a Japanese perspective on the transformation of the nation since 1945. Traces
the remarkable economic development and social changes since the war. $149$75 [FHS]Principles and Practice of Zen, The 100
Explains the process leading to satori. Includes coverage of tea ceremony, flower arranging
and other aspects of Zen culture. $159 [FHS]Traditional Japanese Architecture 30
Detailed examination of a seventeenth century building, the Katsura Imperial Villa in
Kyoto. Follows restoration efforts. $149/$75 [FHS]Tokyo in Tennessee 15
Examines the Nissan plant in Tennessee. A 1982 production. $10.50 rental [KU]Video Letter form Japan II
Produced by The Asia Society [AS]. Available for $110 for the set and $23 each.Choices for Men Approaching Age Sixty 25
A glimpse into the lives of Japanese preparing to retire. Includes discussion of religion in
Japanese society.The College Years 25
Looks at the lives of students in two Tokyo colleges, focusing on activities, problems
and decisions confronting contemporary college students.The Early Working Years 25
Follows workers as they begin their careers, includes discussion of the opportunities
for women.Opportunities for Women at Mid-Life 25
Examines the roles of housewife and the lives of middle aged couples.A Young Family 25
An in-depth look at the roles and responsibilities of young parents.Working Couple, A 28
A 1982 Film Australia production looks at middle income couple and the pressures
they confront. $18.75 rental [KU]Back to Contents
At the Helm of Korean Business 28
Looks at chaebol, large industrial conglomerates, and their role in building Korea.
$90 [FHS]Discovering the Art of Korea 58
Surveys Korean art and culture, beginning with prehistoric work and moving into the
current era. Draws on the National Museum of Korea's "5000 Years of Korean Art"
exhibition. $90 [FHS]Korea: Ancient Treasure, Modern Wonder 25
Pursues the Korean modernization in light of its ancient traditions and agrarian base.
$149/$75 [FHS]Korean War, The 30
Condensed coverage of the war and the tense peace. $90 [FHS]Korean War, The
Five part, ten hour series on the Korean War, produced by South Korean television.
Narrated by James Whitmore. The series includes: The Division and North and South;
The Omens of War and Tempest; To the North and A Different War; Stalemate of
True and War on the Homefront; and Truce and Epilogue-Reflections. [F]Back to Contents
Malaysia
The Delicate Balance 30
Malaysia is the biggest producer of rubber, palm oil, and tin. Resource exploitation
and export driven industry dominate the Malaysian economy. This video looks
at the impact of economic change on ethnic harmony and social structure. [CC]Back to Contents
Mongols: Storm From the East
A four part series (available for $549 complete or $149/$75 per part) which focuses
on the amazing force which built an empire spanning Asia and reaching into Europe.Birth of an Empire 50
Genghis Khan's reputation is being reworked in the People's Republic of Mongolia.
This program follows his emergence and unification of Mongol tribes, turning them
into a powerful fighting machine.
World Conquerers 50
Explores the power and influence of Genghis Khan and his son Ogodei. They built a
remarkable communications network and challenged European armies.Tartar Crusaders 50
This program notes Europe's effort to respond to the Mongol challenge. Some saw it
as punishment for sinful behavior. The pope was surprised to discover the Mongols
practiced religious tolerance.The Last Khan of Khans 50
Focuses on Kublai Khan, the fifth of the Great Khans, who made his base in northern
China, establishing the Yuan dynasty. His achievements were many, but his regime
would not long outlast him. [FHS]Back to Contents
Nepal: Land of the Gods 62
Studies Buddhism as practiced in Nepal. [F]Nepal: On Top of the World 30
Environment threatened by development/deforestation. Industrialist Prabhakar Rana,
with the support of the World Wildlife Fund, is balancing industrialization and
protection of the environment. [CC]Sherpa 29
Follows a typical sherpa family high in the Himalayas. First place, National Educational
Film Festival. [CC]
Back to ContentsBirth of Pakistan, The 20
Documents the creation of Pakistan in 1947 under Mohammed Ali Jinnah and the
challenges the new state confronted. Traces Pakistani history through to the election
of Benazir Bhutto. $90 [FHS]Back to Contents
Nightline: Marcos & Aguino 30
Looks at the two decade rule of Ferdinand Marcos and the challenge represented by
Cory Aguino. [F]Philippine Diary 28
A Maryknoll documentary on life in the Philippines. Serious social problems and possible
solutions are discussed. [F]Back to Contents
Mastering Money 30
Examines the success of Singapore in becoming a center of finance. [CC]Singapore: Toward Tomorrow 30
Credits effective leadership, diligent people, good education, and a commitment to free
enterprise with making Singapore prosperous. [CC]
Back to ContentsSri Lanka: A Nation in Anguish 18
An Amnesty International study on "disappearances" and other human rights violations
in Sri Lanka, a nation immersed in civil war. [F]Back to Contents
Thailand Before Buddha 44
Explores legends and archaeological finds to learn about prehistoric Thailand.
Includes a visit to jungle nomads, people considered to be following ancient ways.
$149/$75. [FHS]Back to Contents
17th Karmapa's Return to Tsurphu, The 100
Follows the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa's return to his original seat in the Tsurphu
monastery in summer 1992. [F]Heart of Tibet
Coverage of the Dalai Lama's visit to Los Angeles. [F]Ossian: American Boy/Tibetan Monk 27
A documentary on a twelve year old American who lived as a Tibetan monk, the reincarnation
of a high lama, since he was four. [F]Tantra of Gyuto 52
The Dalai Lama explains Tantric rituals that enhance consciousness. Includes footage
of Tibet. [F]Tibet 59
Produced by Central Chinese Television in 1988 and narrated in English, this video
offers the official Chinese interpretation of relations between Chinese and Tibetans. $44.95
[NH]Tibet in Exile 30
Won an award at the 1991 Chicago Film Festival. Traces the story of ten children
smuggled out of Tibet to the exile community in India, where 120,000 Tibetans perpetuate
their customs. [F]Tibet: The Survival of the Spirit 92
One of the most detailed documentaries to be filmed in Tibet since the Communist
takeover. A 1991 production of Clemens Kuby. [F]Back to Contents
Fall of Saigon, The 90
Interviews with President Ford, Sec. of State Kissinger, and South Vietnamese citizens
are mixed with footage of the last days of the Republic of Vietnam. $19.95 [PBS]
Great Days of History: Prelude to Vietnam 56
Explores the rise and fall of French rule in Vietnam from the 18th century to the defeat
at Dien Bien Phu. [F]Hearts and Minds 112
The Academy Award winning documentary on the ideas which produced the Vietnam War.
Directed by Peter Davis in 1975. Available at better video rental outlets. [F]Hitchhiking Vietnam: Letters from the Trail (1997) 60
Karin Muller quits her Boston job and takes her video camera with her on a remarkable
and lengthy trip into Vietnam’s cities, villages, and mountains. Highly recommended.
$19.95 from PBS.Television's Vietnam 116
Narrated by Charlton Heston, this is a rebuttal to the PBS Series below. It argues that
news coverage during the war distorted its aims and conduct and that post-war
television discussion of the war has been plagued by leftist bias and a lack of journalistic
integrity. Directed by Peter Rollins in 1984. [F]Vietnam
A seven part CBS series which studies the roots of the conflict, the American involvement,
the conduct of the war, and the impact on American veterans and society.
[$139.98 from PBS, also from F]Vietnam: A Television History
Award winning thirteen hour documentary hosted by journalist-historian Stanley Karnow (who
authored the best-selling companion volume). Features talking heads and a lot of newsreel
footage. Vietnamese participants are interviewed as well as Americans.
1983 production, forms the core of many courses on the war. Prompted a conservative
backlash -- see “Television’s Vietnam” above. Many video stores have the series available
for rent. [$595 FHS, also F]
Back to Contents
Sources
An increasing number of companies have established sites on the World Wide Web. Use one of the search engines such as Lycos or Yahoo to locate them. (For example, Facets is available at <http://www.facets.org>. Unfortunately, only new releases are currently listed at this site. You may order catalogs via the web, however.)Please note that The Japan Foundation and the Japan External Trade Organization maintain a video library open to teachers and non-profit organizations. JETRO, for example, has produced many videos on trade and economy. Both have web-pages (and I have links to them in the "Asia on the Internet" page).
Finally, an increasing number of documentaries are available in American chain stores such as Best
Buy, Blockbuster, and other outlets.AE
Arts & Entertainment Video
This series is carried by many video/book outlets such as Barnes & Noble.AS
The Asia Society
Dept. AS-01
P.O. Box 40
Vernon, New Jersey 07462
914-258-6010 fax: 914-258-1626
also: 725 Park Avenue
New York, New York 10021-5088CC
Centre Communications
1800 30th Street #207
Boulder, Colorado 80301
800-886-1166CAM
Center for New American MediaCT
Cheng & Tsui
25 West Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02111
617-426-6074
This is an excellent source of books and films from Japan and China.China Import Export Co.
2500 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 1028
Los Angeles, CA 90057
(213) 380 7520
fax: 487 2089D
Discovery
800-321-1832DER
Documentary Educational Resources
on the web
http://der.org/docedF
Facets Multimedia
1517 West Fullerton
Chicago, Illinois 606014
800-331-6197 rental: 312-281-9075
Documentaries and feature films.FHF
Film History Foundation/James Culp ProductionsFHS
Films for the Humanities and Sciences
P.O. Box 2053
Princeton, NJ 08543-2053
800-257-5126 fax: 609-275-3767IU
Indiana University Film Library
Bloomington, IndianaJF
The Nihongo Library at The Japan Foundation and Language Center
2425 Olympic Boulevard, Suite 650E
Santa Monica, California 90404
(310) 449-0027 fax: (310) 449-1127 toll free: (888) 667-0880
e-mail: nihongolib@iflac.orgJETRO
Japan External Trade Organization
777 South Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, California 90017-2513
(213) 624-8855 fax: (213) 629-8127KU
Kent State University Film Library
Kent, OhioLB
Long Bow Group
films distributed by New Day Films
121 West 27th Street, Suite 902
New York, NY 10001
212-645-8210 fax: 212-645-8652NH
Nan Hai Arts Center
510 Broadway, Suite 300
Millbrae, California 94030
415-259-2100 fax: 415-259-2108NG
National GeographicPBS
Public Broadcasting Service
800-255-9424
also: Catalog Fulfillment Center
P.O. Box 4030
Santa Monica, California 90411
800-645-4PBS
Time-Life Video
800-526-4663Z
Zeitgeist Films, Ltd.
247 Centre Street, 2nd floor
New York, New York 10013
212-274-1989 fax: 212-274-1644
Back to ContentsCopyright ©1997-98 by the USC-UCLA Joint East Asian Studies Center