Forest Mythology Symbols in Contemporary Japanese Cinema

Nature and mythology have historically shaped Japanese art. In contemporary Japanese cinema, these symbols are often reinterpreted through a renewed perspective on the forest, or chinju no mori, viewed as a sacred space. Throughout history, the reverence for these forests inhabited by deities and spirits has played a fundamental role in artistic expressions, inspiring mythical figures and scenarios. From this perspective, this paper examines how symbols of forest mythology influence and are depicted in Japanese cinema, focusing on the evolution of these representations and the meanings attributed to these symbols. The comparative analysis in this paper reveals stylistic and thematic transitions over time, illustrating how each era contributes to the understanding of the role of the forest in cinematic narratives and the evolution of Japanese cinema in its representation of natural spaces and mythology. A significant shift in the portrayal of forest mythology in Japanese cinema can be observed from the 1980s onward, influenced by urban, social, and cultural changes. Previously depicted as mystical and sometimes terrifying entities in horror films, figures such as kami and yōkai have since been represented through a more environmentally conscious lens, fostering a deeper emotional connection to these spaces. This evolution reflects a broader cultural shift, underscoring the interconnectedness between humanity and the natural world in contemporary cinematic narratives.