Yoji Yamada
DirectingAbout Yoji Yamada
Yoji Yamada (山田 洋次 Yamada Yōji, born September 13, 1931 in Toyonaka City, Osaka, Japan) is a Japanese film director best known for his Otoko wa Tsurai yo series of films. He was born in Osaka. But because of the work of his father, who was an engineer for the South Manchuria Railway, from the age of 2 he was brought up in Manchuria. Following the end of World War II, he came back to Japan and subsequently he lived in Ube in Yamaguchi Prefecture. After receiving his degree from Tokyo University in 1954, he entered Shochiku and worked under Yoshitaro Nomura as a scriptwriter or as an assistant director. He has won many awards throughout his lengthy career and is well respected in Japan and by critics throughout the world. He wrote his first screenplay in 1958, and directed his first movie in 1961. Yamada continues to make movies to this day. He once served as president of the Directors Guild of Japan, and is currently a guest professor of Ritsumeikan University.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Yoji Yamada reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 6 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Documentary
The majority of Yoji Yamada's filmography leans towards the Documentary genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 17% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Yoji Yamada remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in I Lived, But..., which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Yoji Yamada Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Yoji Yamada's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Yoji Yamada.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 55th anniversary performance of Tora-San: Rakugo, Talk and Tora Jiro Returns | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 2019 | Seijo Story: 60 Years of Making Films | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2016 | Ken San | - | Average | Similar → |
| 2015 | 700 Days with Ryuichi Sakamoto | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2015 | Sat-chan Tadashi-chan: Sengo minshu-teki dokuritsu pro funtō-ki | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 1983 | I Lived, But... | Self | Hit | Similar → |
Yoji Yamada - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Yoji Yamada?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Yoji Yamada is "I Lived, But..." with a rating of 6.5/10.
How many movies has Yoji Yamada acted in?
Yoji Yamada has been featured in at least 6 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Yoji Yamada?
Other notable films include "Ken San", "Sat-chan Tadashi-chan: Sengo minshu-teki dokuritsu pro funtō-ki", and "700 Days with Ryuichi Sakamoto".