This book introduces the international scene of current times as well as the political and diplomatic situations of East Asia. Through well-known films, readers will be able to take a glimpse into the two main underlying transitions of East Asia, hegemonism and multiculturalism.

China which aims to bring back Sinocentrism, Japan which pursues amendment of the “peace constitution” and shows determination for military expansion at the same time, Taiwan which keeps a tight grip on cross-strait relations, North Korea whose people keep escaping their country due to nuclear experiments and economic suffering, and South Korea which is still influenced by the tragic situation of national separation, etc. At the center of what is going on in these East Asian countries can be found the words, “hegemonism” and “conflict”.

A Look at East Asia Through Films presents a viewing of 21st century East Asia, 19th century modern Western nations, and Japanese imperialism in the scenes of various films. The pain and extraordinary situation of the divided system of the Korean Peninsula, wariness and criticism towards Japan’s militarism, Western imperialism and turbulent change of China in the 19th century, the unique political climate of China and Taiwan are just some of the topics from East Asia’s past and present depicted in films. The book offers readers an entertaining read about a wide range of recent, as well as classic films such as The Age of Shadows, Operation Chromite, Spirits’ Homecoming – An Unfinished Story, A City of Sadness, Farewell My Concubine, and Red Sorghum.