Film May 22, 2020
Torel-produced films show just why Japanese indies need support
by Mark Schilling
With the closures of small theaters threatening the survival of the indie scene, many in the industry have looked to online streaming to stay afloat.
Film May 21, 2020
Think you streamed everything? Dig deeper on Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime
by James Hadfield
Cinemas have cautiously started to reopen in parts of Japan, but many of us are still having to sit tight and do all our movie-viewing at home. If, by now, you’re feeling like you’ve reached the bottom of the streaming barrel, fret not: There ...
TV May 14, 2020
'The Benza' proves that toilet humor is universal
by Matt Schley
“The Benza," a series on Amazon Prime Video about an epic quest to replace a broken toilet seat, was inspired by actor Christopher McCombs’ real-life travails in Tokyo.
Film May 14, 2020
Asia-themed film festivals migrate online amid COVID-19
by Mark Schilling
Overseas film festivals that specialize in Japanese and other Asian fare are taking their programs online to survive the coronavirus.
Business / Corporate Apr 22, 2020
Netflix promises it won’t run out of TV shows during the pandemic
Faced with an unprecedented global health crisis that has frozen businesses around the world, Netflix Inc. is reassuring customers (and investors) that it won’t run out of new TV shows or movies anytime soon. The company has already finished production on almost all of its ...
Travel Apr 11, 2020
Forget you're under quarantine and lose yourself in the world of Studio Ghibli
by Claire Williamson
Though COVID-19 has unfortunately scuppered many travel plans this spring, it’s still possible to experience Japan from your couch through film. In particular, Studio Ghibli’s iconic canon of animated features provide a vivid refuge for those unable to leave the house.
Music Apr 11, 2020
Shizuoka's Rainbow Disco Club to stream online
by Patrick St. Michel
On April 18, Rainbow Disco Club will host a 12-hour paid-streaming party featuring artists performing sets from Izu.
Business / Tech Mar 22, 2020
Netflix to slash traffic across Europe to relieve virus strain on internet providers
Netflix will cut traffic by 25 percent on networks across Europe in a relief measure for internet service providers (ISPs) experiencing a surge in usage due to government "shelter in place" orders aimed at slowing the coronavirus outbreak. The streaming giant, which has already deployed ...
National Mar 1, 2020
NHK started on Sunday simultaneous broadcasting of its television programs on the internet. The simulcast service, dubbed "NHK plus," will be offered 17 hours a day from 7 a.m. to midnight in March, before expanding to 18 hours a day from 6 a.m. to midnight ...
TV Feb 19, 2020
How to navigate social media and a social city with Netflix's 'Followers'
by Mark Schilling
Artist and director Mika Ninagawa launches new streaming about the lives of Tokyo's bright young things and their quest for recognition
TV | Wide Angle Feb 7, 2020
Arashi lets fans in on a little tedium with new streaming Netflix documentary
by Patrick St. Michel
After 20 years of entertainment the masses, J-pop group Arashi is embarking on its final tour ahead of a hiatus. A new Netflix documentary goes behind the scenes of the preparations.
National Feb 2, 2020
Five Japan TV networks to offer simultaneous online streaming in bid to entice younger viewers
The firms are aiming to attract a wider viewership, though their streaming will be limited to times of day with the highest demand.