Fan Casting Itami: The Maverick of Japanese Cinema

Itami follows the life of Juzo Itami, the maverick Japanese filmmaker who redefined modern Japanese cinema. Known for his humor, intelligence, and fearless critique of social structures, Itami’s career blossomed at a time when Japan’s cinema landscape was dominated by tradition and restraint. We begin with Itami’s early life as the son of esteemed director Mansaku Itami, tracing his beginnings in acting, his years abroad, and his metamorphosis into a director whose sharp wit and eye for satire would transform him into a national figure. Each episode highlights a pivotal period in his life and career, intertwined with scenes from the creative process behind his groundbreaking films, which courageously tackled controversial subjects like Japan’s yakuza culture, bureaucratic corruption, and gender politics.