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Historical Dictionary of Taiwan Cinema: A Comprehensive Guide to the Island's Cinematic Legacy

Alan Turner

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Published in Historical Dictionary Of Taiwan Cinema (Historical Dictionaries Of Literature And The Arts)

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Taiwanese cinema has a rich and diverse history, with roots in the early 20th century and a vibrant modern landscape. The Historical Dictionary of Taiwan Cinema provides a comprehensive guide to the island's cinematic legacy, offering in-depth entries on key figures, films, genres, and movements that have shaped its development.

Over 400 entries cover a wide range of topics, including:
- Directors and actors
- Films and genres
- Film festivals and awards
- Film studios and production companies
- Historical and social context
Extensive cross-referencing and a detailed chronology provide easy navigation and contextualization
A comprehensive bibliography and filmography offer further resources for research and exploration

Taiwanese cinema emerged during the Japanese occupation (1895-1945),with the first films being produced by Japanese filmmakers and actors. After World War II, the Kuomintang government relocated to Taiwan, bringing with it a wave of mainland Chinese filmmakers who helped to establish a new era of Taiwanese cinema.

The 1960s and 1970s were a golden age for Taiwanese cinema, with the emergence of directors such as Li Han-hsiang, King Hu, and Hou Hsiao-hsien. These filmmakers produced a wide range of films, including historical dramas, wuxia (martial arts) films, and social realist films.

Historical Dictionary of Taiwan Cinema (Historical Dictionaries of Literature and the Arts)

by Robert Kakakaway

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4000 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	509 pages

In the 1980s and 1990s, Taiwanese cinema underwent a period of transition, with the rise of New Taiwan Cinema, a movement that sought to break away from the conventions of traditional filmmaking. Directors such as Edward Yang, Hou Hsiao-hsien, and Tsai Ming-liang emerged as leaders of this movement, producing films that explored the complexities of Taiwanese society and identity.

In the 21st century, Taiwanese cinema has continued to thrive, with a new generation of filmmakers emerging to create innovative and groundbreaking films. Directors such as Ang Lee, Tsai Ming-liang, and Wei Te-sheng have gained international recognition for their work, showcasing the diverse and vibrant nature of Taiwanese cinema.

Hou Hsiao-hsien (born 1947): One of the most celebrated Taiwanese directors, known for his slow-paced, contemplative films that explore the complexities of Taiwanese society and history.
Edward Yang (1947-2007): Another leading figure of New Taiwan Cinema, known for his films that examine the urban landscape and the alienation of modern life.
Tsai Ming-liang (born 1957): A controversial and provocative director known for his films that explore the themes of loneliness, alienation, and sexuality.
Ang Lee (born 1954): A Taiwanese-American director who has achieved international acclaim for his films, including "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" and "Brokeback Mountain."
Wei Te-sheng (born 1969): A director known for his films that explore Taiwanese history and identity, including "Cape No. 7" and "Seediq Bale."

Taipei Story (1985): Edward Yang's debut film, a groundbreaking work that examines the alienation and loneliness of modern urban life.
A City of Sadness (1989): Hou Hsiao-hsien's masterpiece, a historical drama that explores the complexities of Taiwanese society during the White Terror period.
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000): Ang Lee's Oscar-winning martial arts epic, which became an international sensation.
Cape No. 7 (2008): Wei Te-sheng's romantic comedy-drama, which became one of the most successful Taiwanese films of all time.
Seediq Bale (2011): Wei Te-sheng's historical epic, which tells the story of the Wushe Incident, a major uprising against Japanese rule in Taiwan.

The Historical Dictionary of Taiwan Cinema is an indispensable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the rich and diverse history of Taiwanese cinema. With its comprehensive entries, detailed chronology, and extensive bibliography, this dictionary provides a comprehensive overview of the island's cinematic legacy.

Historical Dictionary of Taiwan Cinema (Historical Dictionaries of Literature and the Arts)

by Robert Kakakaway

5 out of 5