Shinpachirō Asaka
Actor
About Shinpachirō Asaka
Shinpachirō Asaka was a Japanese actor who appeared during the early sound era of Japanese cinema. His known filmography consists of a single appearance in Kenji Mizoguchi's acclaimed 1936 film 'Osaka Elegy' (Naniwa erejī). Given that his active period is recorded as only 1936, he likely had a brief career in the film industry, possibly as a minor character actor or someone who transitioned out of acting quickly. His appearance in 'Osaka Elegy' places him within the context of Japan's emerging sound film period, a time when the country's cinema was gaining international recognition. The fact that he appeared in a Mizoguchi film suggests he may have been associated with one of Japan's major studios during this pivotal era. Unfortunately, detailed records about his life and career beyond this single film appearance are scarce, which was common for many supporting actors of early Japanese cinema.
The Craft
Milestones
- Appeared in Kenji Mizoguchi's 'Osaka Elegy' (1936)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
As a minor actor in early Japanese cinema, Shinpachirō Asaka's cultural impact is primarily through his participation in 'Osaka Elegy,' a film that represents a crucial period in Japanese film history. The movie itself is significant for its realistic portrayal of urban life and its critique of social conditions in pre-war Japan. While his individual contribution may have been small, he was part of the ensemble that helped bring Mizoguchi's vision to life during the transitional period from silent to sound films in Japan.
Lasting Legacy
Shinpachirō Asaka's legacy is preserved through his appearance in 'Osaka Elegy,' which remains one of the most studied and respected films of early Japanese cinema. The film continues to be analyzed by film scholars and screened at retrospectives of Kenji Mizoguchi's work. While he may not have achieved individual fame, his participation in this cinematic masterpiece ensures his place in film history, however minor his role may have been.
Who They Inspired
Given his brief career and limited filmography, there is no documented evidence of Shinpachirō Asaka's influence on other actors or directors. His influence is primarily contextual, as part of the generation of actors who helped establish the foundation of Japanese cinema during its formative years.
Off Screen
Very little information is available about Shinpachirō Asaka's personal life due to limited documentation of supporting actors from early Japanese cinema.
Did You Know?
- Appeared in only one known film during his entire career
- His only known film 'Osaka Elegy' was directed by legendary filmmaker Kenji Mizoguchi
- The film was made during Japan's transition from silent to sound cinema
- Osaka Elegy was considered controversial in its time for its social criticism
- The film has been preserved and is considered a masterpiece of Japanese cinema
- Many supporting actors from 1930s Japanese films have incomplete records due to documentation practices of the era
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Shinpachirō Asaka?
Shinpachirō Asaka was a Japanese actor active in 1936, known primarily for his appearance in Kenji Mizoguchi's film 'Osaka Elegy.' He appears to have had a very brief career in the film industry, with only one documented film credit.
What films is Shinpachirō Asaka best known for?
Shinpachirō Asaka is known only for his appearance in 'Osaka Elegy' (1936), directed by Kenji Mizoguchi, which is considered a masterpiece of early Japanese cinema.
When was Shinpachirō Asaka born and when did he die?
Specific birth and death dates for Shinpachirō Asaka are not available in documented records, which is common for minor actors from early Japanese cinema.
What awards did Shinpachirō Asaka win?
There are no recorded awards or nominations for Shinpachirō Asaka, likely due to his brief career and minor role in the film industry.
What was Shinpachirō Asaka's acting style?
Due to limited documentation and his brief career, there is insufficient information to describe Shinpachirō Asaka's specific acting style or techniques.
Why is Shinpachirō Asaka significant in film history?
His significance lies in his participation in 'Osaka Elegy,' an important film from Japan's early sound era that represents the work of acclaimed director Kenji Mizoguchi and the development of Japanese cinema.
Films
1 film
