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The Return of a Cinematic Classic: Yoji Yamada's New Edition

On October 15, 2025, the 47-year wait was finally over with the release of the newly published edition of Yoji Yamada's insightful book, "Making Movies: New Edition." This book, originally released in 1978, is a treasure trove of the philosophy and practical aspects of filmmaking, expertly narrated by the maestro himself, Yoji Yamada. Known for his contributions to masterpieces like the iconic "Tora-san" series, Yamada's words possess the power to transcend generations and speak to all who have a passion for cinema.

In the preface of this new edition, Yamada reflects on his early days, recalling the moment he first held a clapperboard in 1954, a symbol of his lifelong commitment to the film industry. This remarkable revival not only includes a new foreword penned by Yamada, but also an insightful commentary by Claude Leblanc, author of "The Japan Seen by Yoji Yamada," as well as an extensive list of his directorial works, culminating with his much-anticipated film, "TOKYO Taxi," scheduled for release in November 2025.

Yoji Yamada’s intrinsic belief that "the work of making a film is loving the subject" encapsulates the essence of his philosophy. Throughout the book, he provides readers with valuable insights that entice audience engagement while exploring the cultural and emotional threads that connect people to narratives across time.

Table of Contents

Preface – Reflections on the New Edition

• - Written by Yoji Yamada.

Part I: Film and Me – Thoughts on Cinema

• - Joining the Film Industry and Early Days at Shochiku
• - The Birth of "Tora-san"
• - Encountering Movies – The Impact of