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TRENDING
May 20, 2024
Poor Working Environment in Japanese Film Industry
Currently, Japan’s film industry is Asia’s second-largest in terms of box office. Its revenues totaled $1.14 billion from 115 million during the depths of the pandemic in 2021. But for decades it is hardly the healthiest by world or even regional standards. By; K Dass.
Japan - For many in the industry, particularly those in the
indie sector, hours are horrendous, contracts are non-existent and sexual and
power harassment are facts of professional life. And even directors whose work
screens at major festivals abroad often struggle to raise money for their next
project or earn a middle-class living from filmmaking alone.
The Japanese film
industry has been facing significant challenges. Production staff in Japanese
films often work long hours at low wages. Many are freelancers without proper
contracts, making it difficult to protest unreasonable working conditions. A
certification system was recently introduced to address this issue, but more
reforms are needed.
The industry has been
bemoaning the lack of young people working in production. Harassment, poor
compensation, and long hours have been brought to attention.
The production
committee system involves risk sharing among multiple companies from different
corners of the entertainment sphere. However, co-production treaties with other
countries are lacking.
Some filmmakers face
sexual harassment and abuses of power, particularly in the indie sector. Efforts
are being made to address these issues, but further reforms are necessary to
ensure a sustainable and thriving Japanese film industry.
