Militarization and Modernization of Japan: A Historical Study in The Film The Wind Rises

This study aims to analyze how the film The Wind Rises depicts the process of militarization and modernization of Japan during World War II and contributes to shaping Japan's national image. This study uses the theory of sociology of literature and soft power in international relations. Then, this study uses qualitative methods. The results of this study indicate that the film The Wind Rises represents the militarization and modernization of Japan through the role of Jiro Horikoshi as an aviation engineer. The modernization of the aviation industry shown in this film is inseparable from Japan's militarization policy, where the country encourages the development of fighter jets to strengthen the armed forces. This film also attracts the interest of global audiences to learn more about Japanese history, culture, and values as well as effective diplomatic tools as part of Japanese popular culture, this film can be used by the Japanese government or cultural institutions to promote a better understanding of Japan in the international world.