http://worldcat.org/entity/work/id/902976836

Japan three generations of avant-garde architects, with the participation of Itsuko Hasegawa, Arata Isozaki, Toyo Ito, Tadao Ando, Kasuo Shinohara, Fumihiko Maki, Kenzo Tange

Japan's emergence as an economic super-power imparted confidence and prowess not only to its commerce, industry, and science, but also to its cultural life. This resurgence is most apparent in the field of architecture - some even refer to this period as the golden age of Japanese design. The shortage of space, and the ever present risk of earthquakes, have mitigated against the pattern of high-rise, mega-development that has come to characterize the downtowns of so many Western cities. These factors, plus a generally high level of affluence, have led to extensive low to medium-rise construction throughout the islands, affording many architects a chance to try out new ideas. In contrast to the West, Japanese developers and clients seem to be genuinely interested in design innovation and the consequent building book has allowed a sizeable number of architects to achieve international recognition. This film profiles the most innovative architects in Japan today. A timely document of some of the most convincing modern architecture of our time.

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