Madi Diaz has unveiled a new single, ‘Ambivalence’, lifted from her forthcoming album Fatal Optimist. It follows lead single ‘Feel Something’. “I can always count on you for one thing/ You to dance my night away/ You to dance my night away/ You to dance my night away, ambivalence,” Diaz sings, in her trademark, tangled intimacy. Check it out below.
Fatal Optimist is set for release on October 10 via ANTI-. Revisit our Artist Spotlight interview with Madi Diaz.
Joyce Manor have returned with a new single called ‘All My Friends Are So Depressed’. The Brett Gurewitz-produced track, which is inspired by both the Smiths and 100 gecs, marks the band’s first new in three years. Check it out below.
“The first line I came up with for this song was ‘lord above in a Tecate truck’ after passing a Tecate delivery truck with Jesus shit all over it on the freeway driving back to Long Beach after a show in Fresno,” vocalist/guitarist Barry Johnson explained in a statement. “While searching for a line that rhymed with ‘lord above in a Tecate truck’ I came up with ‘why even exist? Who gives a fuck!?’ and the concept of ‘All My Friends Are So Depressed’ was born. It’s kind of my take on what I imagine Lana Del Rey lyrics are like. Instead of icy, detached cool 50’s Americana, it’s all dirty shag carpet, bong rips, Peter Frampton Comes Alive, key lime pie and suicidal ideations. My flow was inspired by 100 Gecs who I was listening to a concerning amount in 2023 (Much respect to Dylan and Laura, please take us on tour). Musically, we were drawing from The Libertines, Tiger Army, X and The Smiths… obviously.”
Joyce Manor’s last album was 2022’s 40 oz. to Fresno.
Fireworks are a staple of celebrations worldwide, from New Year’s Eve to Bonfire Night. While the visual spectacle of vibrant colours lighting up the night sky is undoubtedly captivating, the accompanying sounds play an equally crucial role in creating a memorable experience. The crackles, whistles, and booms of fireworks evoke emotions and set the atmosphere for festivities. But have you ever wondered what causes these distinct sounds?
Understanding the science behind the sounds of fireworks can enhance your appreciation for these explosive displays. Fireworks produce sound through a combination of chemical reactions and physical processes. The noise generated can vary significantly based on the materials used and the design of the firework itself. For instance, the type of gunpowder, the size of the shell, and the way the firework is constructed all contribute to the unique auditory experience.
To delve deeper into the specifics, it’s essential to explore why some fireworks crackle or whistle. The crackling sound often comes from the combustion of small particles within the firework, while whistling is typically produced by the rapid expulsion of gas through a narrow opening. These sounds are not just random; they are carefully designed to create a specific auditory effect that complements the visual display. For a more detailed exploration of this topic, you can check out this insightful article on why some fireworks crackle or whistle.
The Role of Sound in Fireworks Displays
Creating Atmosphere
The sounds of fireworks contribute significantly to the overall atmosphere of an event. A loud bang can elicit gasps and cheers from the crowd, while a soft crackle can create a sense of wonder and anticipation. The interplay between sound and sight is what makes fireworks displays so enchanting.
Emotional Connection
Sound has a profound impact on our emotions. The booming of fireworks can evoke feelings of excitement and joy, while the softer sounds can instil a sense of nostalgia. This emotional connection is often what keeps people returning to fireworks displays year after year.
Cultural Significance
In many cultures, fireworks are synonymous with celebration. The sounds associated with fireworks can carry cultural meanings, often linked to traditions and rituals. For example, in some cultures, the loud noises are believed to ward off evil spirits, while in others, they signify the arrival of good fortune.
The Science Behind Firework Sounds
Chemical Reactions
At the heart of every firework is a carefully crafted mixture of chemicals. When ignited, these chemicals undergo rapid combustion, producing gases that expand quickly. This expansion creates pressure waves, which we perceive as sound. The specific combination of chemicals used in a firework determines the pitch and volume of the sound produced.
Design Elements
The design of a firework also plays a crucial role in the sounds it produces. For instance, the size of the shell can affect how sound travels. Larger shells tend to produce deeper, more resonant sounds, while smaller shells may create higher-pitched noises. Additionally, the presence of specific materials, such as metal salts, can influence the sound.
The Role of Fuses
Fuses are another critical component in the sound production of fireworks. The type of fuse used can affect the timing and intensity of the explosion, which in turn influences the sound. A slow-burning fuse may create a more prolonged sound, while a quick fuse can lead to a sharp, immediate bang.
The Impact of Sound on Audience Experience
Synchronisation with Music
In modern fireworks displays, sound is often synchronised with music to create a more immersive experience. This combination of visual and auditory elements can heighten the emotional impact of the display. The rhythm of the fireworks can match the tempo of the music, creating a harmonious blend that captivates the audience.
Audience Engagement
The sounds of fireworks can also engage the audience in unique ways. The anticipation of a loud bang or the thrill of a sudden whistle can keep spectators on the edge of their seats. This engagement is particularly important for large public displays, where the collective experience of sound can enhance the sense of community among viewers.
Safety Considerations
While the sounds of fireworks are often celebrated, it’s essential to consider safety. Loud noises can be distressing for some individuals, particularly those with sensory sensitivities or PTSD. Event organisers should be mindful of this and consider providing information about the sounds that will be present during a display.
Conclusion
The sounds of fireworks are an integral part of their charm and allure. From the crackles and whistles to the booming explosions, each sound contributes to the overall experience of a fireworks display. Understanding the science behind these sounds can deepen our appreciation for the artistry involved in creating such spectacular events.
As you prepare for your next fireworks display, take a moment to listen closely. Notice how the sounds interact with the visuals and how they shape your emotional response. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, a wedding, or simply enjoying a summer night, the symphony of sounds that accompanies fireworks is a reminder of the joy and wonder that these displays bring to our lives.
In the quest for a healthier body, many individuals find themselves navigating a maze of diets, exercise regimens, and wellness trends. While traditional methods like calorie counting and strength training have their merits, they often require significant time and commitment. As science and technology advance, new treatment options are emerging that promise to enhance fat loss and muscle gain more efficiently. One such innovative approach is the Emsculpt Neo, a treatment option for fat loss and muscle gain that is gaining traction in the fitness and wellness community.
Understanding the Basics of Fat Loss and Muscle Gain
Before diving into the specifics of Emsculpt Neo, it’s essential to understand the fundamental principles of fat loss and muscle gain.
The Science of Fat Loss
Fat loss occurs when the body expends more energy than it consumes, creating a caloric deficit. This can be achieved through:
The Process of Muscle Gain
Muscle gain, or hypertrophy, happens when muscle fibres are subjected to stress, typically through resistance training. The body responds by repairing and growing these fibres, leading to increased muscle mass. Key factors include:
While these methods are effective, they can be time-consuming and may not yield immediate results, leading many to seek alternative solutions.
The Emsculpt Neo: A Game Changer
Emsculpt Neo is a non-invasive body contouring treatment that combines high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology with radiofrequency. This dual-action approach not only targets fat cells but also stimulates muscle contractions, making it a unique treatment option for fat loss and muscle gain.
How Emsculpt Neo Works
The treatment works by delivering electromagnetic energy to the targeted areas, inducing thousands of muscle contractions in a short period. These contractions are similar to what you would achieve through intense exercise, but without the physical strain. The process can lead to:
What to Expect During Treatment
Emsculpt Neo sessions typically last around 30 minutes, and most patients report minimal discomfort. The treatment is often described as feeling like an intense workout, but without the sweat and fatigue. A series of sessions is usually recommended for optimal results, with many individuals noticing improvements in muscle tone and fat reduction within a few weeks.
The Benefits of Emsculpt Neo
Emsculpt Neo offers several advantages over traditional methods of fat loss and muscle gain:
Time Efficiency
With busy lifestyles, finding time for lengthy workouts can be challenging. Emsculpt Neo provides a way to achieve significant results in a fraction of the time, making it an appealing option for those with tight schedules.
Non-Invasive Nature
Unlike surgical procedures, Emsculpt Neo is non-invasive, meaning there’s no need for anaesthesia, incisions, or lengthy recovery times. Patients can return to their daily activities immediately after treatment.
Versatility
Emsculpt Neo can be used on various body parts, including the abdomen, buttocks, arms, and thighs. This versatility allows individuals to target specific areas where they wish to see improvement.
Enhanced Results
For those already committed to a fitness routine, Emsculpt Neo can complement existing efforts, helping to break through plateaus and achieve desired body composition goals more effectively.
Who Can Benefit from Emsculpt Neo?
While Emsculpt Neo is suitable for many individuals, it’s particularly beneficial for:
Considerations and Conclusion
As with any treatment, it’s essential to consult with a qualified professional to determine if Emsculpt Neo is the right choice for you. Factors such as medical history, current health status, and personal goals should be considered.
In conclusion, Emsculpt Neo represents a revolutionary treatment option for fat loss and muscle gain, offering a unique blend of efficiency and effectiveness. As the landscape of fitness and wellness continues to evolve, embracing innovative solutions can help individuals achieve their health goals more seamlessly. Whether you’re looking to enhance your physique, boost your confidence, or simply explore new avenues for self-improvement, Emsculpt Neo may be worth considering as part of your journey.
By staying informed and open to new possibilities, you can take proactive steps towards a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle.
Online casinos have become a pivotal part of the digital entertainment ecosystem. Once considered a niche corner of the internet, these platforms have exploded in popularity, thanks to technological advancements, increasing internet penetration, and evolving gambling regulations in various jurisdictions. As society becomes more digitally inclined, the line between traditional leisure activities and their online counterparts continues to blur — and the world of casinos is no exception.
Before the digital age, casinos were luxurious, land-based establishments often found in tourist hotspots like Las Vegas, Monte Carlo, or Macau. They were symbols of glamour, risk, and excitement. However, these venues weren’t accessible to everyone, especially those in regions without a developed gambling infrastructure.
The internet changed all that.
Online casinos began to emerge in the mid-1990s, starting with basic platforms that offered rudimentary games like blackjack and roulette. Over time, the technology matured, and these platforms evolved to include hundreds — even thousands — of interactive games, offering the same thrill and variety as physical casinos, without the need to travel.
Today’s online casinos aren’t just digital versions of traditional gambling halls. They are dynamic entertainment hubs that reflect cultural preferences and evolving player behaviors.
Many online platforms now design themed slots and games around popular culture, such as films, music, or mythology. For example, you’ll find games based on Norse legends, Egyptian mysteries, or even pop bands. These cultural infusions make online gambling not only more appealing but also more immersive.
Furthermore, online casinos have also embraced gamification — a technique popularized in the gaming industry. Players can earn badges, level up, complete challenges, and even participate in seasonal events. This strategy appeals to a generation that grew up on video games and values achievement and progression.
A significant driver of online casino success is technological innovation. The integration of HTML5 allows games to be played seamlessly on any device — desktop, tablet, or mobile. Mobile gambling now accounts for a large chunk of the industry’s revenue.
Additionally, the emergence of live dealer games has helped bridge the gap between digital and real-world experiences. Through high-definition streaming and real-time interaction with human dealers, players can now enjoy the ambiance of a physical casino from their living rooms.
Blockchain and cryptocurrency have also made their mark. Many platforms now accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital currencies for deposits and withdrawals. These innovations enhance privacy, speed up transactions, and appeal to a growing audience of crypto-savvy users.
Amid the growing landscape of online casinos, a wave of alternative game types is capturing global attention. One standout is plinko — a game inspired by the famous TV show format but reinvented for the digital casino world. Plinko provides a unique blend of chance and physics-based mechanics, allowing players to watch as a ball bounces down a pegged board into various reward slots. Its popularity is not only due to its engaging gameplay but also because it represents a shift from traditional card and slot games to more interactive and visually stimulating formats. This diversification shows how online casinos are innovating to keep players entertained.
With growing popularity comes increased scrutiny. Governments and regulatory bodies have implemented various measures to ensure that online gambling is conducted safely and responsibly.
Leading jurisdictions, such as the UK, Malta, and Gibraltar, require online casino operators to meet strict criteria for licensing. This includes fair game algorithms, secure payment systems, and robust customer support.
Moreover, online platforms have integrated tools to help players control their gambling habits. These include deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and reality checks — all aimed at promoting responsible play.
It’s also worth noting that public perception has shifted. Once seen as a vice, online gambling is now more widely accepted, especially when framed as a form of entertainment rather than a means to make money. Cultural conversations around mental health and addiction have further encouraged platforms to adopt more ethical approaches.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated many digital trends — online gambling included. With land-based casinos closed and people spending more time at home, online platforms saw a significant boost in user activity. What began as a temporary shift became a long-term trend.
Now, many players who started gambling online during the pandemic continue to do so because of the convenience, variety, and user-friendly interfaces that online platforms offer.
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) also present exciting frontiers for future growth. Though still in the early stages, VR casinos promise to replicate the social aspects of physical venues, allowing players to walk through virtual halls, interact with others, and even sit at poker tables.
As we look ahead, it’s clear that online casinos will continue to evolve in tandem with broader digital culture. From AI-powered game recommendations to cross-platform accessibility and global tournaments, the industry is set for a more personalized and interconnected experience.
For cultural publications like Our Culture Mag, online casinos represent more than just a form of entertainment. They are a mirror reflecting changing tastes, technological advancement, and the way we engage with leisure in the 21st century.
Conclusion
Online casinos are a fascinating blend of innovation, culture, and entertainment. They’ve come a long way from their humble beginnings, now offering tailored experiences, alternative gameplay like Plinko, and inclusive access to players worldwide. As technology continues to redefine how we play, one thing is clear: online casinos are here to stay — and they’re only getting better.
Cannabis has experienced massive changes over the last decade and has witnessed new techniques, products and consumer preferences evolve at fast speed. The most popular inventions are edibles that contain THC like gummies, and other foods with THC which are becoming a sought-after method of consumption by beginners as well as experienced cannabis users.
From microdosing to gourmet foods, the market for products infused with THC is evolving and consumers are prepared to embrace it.
THC edibles, particularly Gummies, are some of the top marijuana items that are available. Their rise in popularity can be attributed to a number of reasons. They’re safe and easy to consume and offer an ongoing dosage. They also reduce the need to smoke or inhale vapors. They appeal to people who are concerned about their health. With the rising legalization of marijuana across a variety of states and countries, THC edibles are not just for the sophisticated and discerning; they’re now commonplace.
Gummies are extremely sought-after because they’re delicious and a nostalgic way to experience the benefits of cannabis. With their colorful packaging, a variety of fruit-based flavors and precise dosage options Delta 9 gummies are the preferred choice of many users. They are made up of the delta 9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which is the most psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. It has been recognized for its euphoric properties and a sense of relaxation.
Contrary to smoking cigarettes or vaping, edibles release THC via the digestive system. This means that the time to experience the effects is a little slower, ranging between 30 minutes and 2 hours. However, the effects can last longer and become greater in intensity. This makes them a great option for those seeking lasting relief from insomnia and chronic pain.
Another reason they are so well known is the convenience of using them. The majority of edibles come with distinct labels that allow consumers to know exactly how much THC they’re consuming. It doesn’t matter whether it’s 2.5mg to get a microdose or 25mg for an enhanced taste. The users can regulate their consumption and enjoy the taste and quality of edibles.
The inclusion of other cannabinoids like THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is also changing the edible game. While it’s there is no psychoactivity in the natural version, THCA Flower
is often included in products due to its potential beneficial effects for therapeutic purposes, like neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. While research is continuing to grow we’re witnessing increasing numbers of edible companies offering an array of cannabinoids to provide a better user experience.
Cannabis businesses are constantly expanding their product offerings to meet the needs of customers. At the moment, edibles are available in many forms including gummies and chocolates to protein bars, drinks and mints. The brands are also focused on:
The technological advancements have made edibles more accessible that appeal to a wider number of people like seniors, the health-conscious and those who are only starting to discover cannabis.
Delta 9 Gummies are among the most renowned THC edible items that are available. Contrary to Delta-8 or Delta-10 which are less potent, with less noticeable effects, Delta-9 THC gives you a true cannabis sensation. Gummies are available in various sizes and flavors that appeal to those who are new to cannabis and those who have greater tolerance.
Many brands are also ensuring the products they sell are gluten-free, vegan and made of natural ingredients that appeal to people who are health-conscious. When it comes to markets which are controlled, Delta 9 gummies must be in compliance with the highest quality standards. Testing in labs and transparency of sourcing have become standard in this market.
Although it’s non-psychoactive when it is in its original form, THCA flower is now being incorporated in edible form. THCA transforms into THC when heated (a process called decarboxylation) and may increase the potency when it is properly integrated. Some brands are experimenting with cold-pressed or raw formulations that contain THCA is preserved because of its health benefits but without the possibility of an increase. The result is opening the door to foods that are focused on wellness and health instead of recreation.
People seeking non-toxic solutions to anxiety, inflammation, or nausea could benefit from these foods. The industry is just beginning to explore the potential of this plant and we’ll likely be witnessing more THCA products in the coming years.
Cannabis is now recognized more broadly and the direction of edibles containing THC is extremely exciting. What to expect:
The edible segment of the market for cannabis is growing for reasons that are well-documented. Products like delta 9 Gummies can be an enjoyable, safe and secure method to experience the benefits of cannabis. In the same way, the introduction of new ingredients such as marijuana flowers THC has begun to offer an entirely new line of health-related products that go way beyond the hype.
Whatever your age, whether you’re a seasoned user or just starting out, the universe of THC edibles is an absolute delight for everyone. As the trend changes and new ideas come out, edibles are predicted to play a major role in both recreational and medical cannabis markets.
Fortnite is teaming up with Kai Cenat to introduce a brand new Icon Series skin. This collaboration adds the popular streamer to the growing roster of real-world personalities brought to life in the game.
Based on the report from Sportskeeda, Cenat teased the partnership with Epic Games on X (formerly Twitter) on August 17. Specifically, his post hinted that there will be a big announcement, along with a Fortnite Icon Series reveal. Three minutes later, Fortnite seemingly confirmed the news by simply replying “LEAKED” to the post.
Consequently, this immediately generated excitement among fans and a frenzy in the gaming community. Sports Illustrated says that the post already garnered thousands of likes and over 350,000 views, indicating strong anticipation for the new skin.
As per GameRant, the Icon Series of Fortnite works as a tribute to popular celebrities and personalities in the gaming scene, including streamers.
Prior to the arrival of this announcement, Epic Games had already featured famous musicians like Mariah Carey, Travis Scott, Major Lazer, and Eminem as in-game skins. Similarly, many content creators were also included, such as Ninja, Lachlan, Mr. Beast, and TheGrefg.
Given Kai Cenat’s massive following and fan base, his inclusion in the Icon Series lineup was all but inevitable. In particular, he currently has approximately 18.5 million followers. At the same time, he is the third most followed streamer on Twitch.
The streamer’s online presence alone makes him a wise addition to the group. But his appeal goes beyond follower counts. And he has more to offer.
According to Sports Illustrated, the user count of Fortnite has been plummeting ever since the major updates a few months ago. Currently, the popular game is recording its lowest player population.
In line with this, the collaboration with Kai Cenat for a new Icon Series skin could generate interest from his big audience. Similarly, the streamer’s influence could support and boost Fortnite’s player base. Overall, Cenat’s appeal would bring both fan excitement and in-game cultural relevance to Fortnite.
The Fortnite community and Cenat’s fans are eagerly waiting on what his Icon Series skin will bring to the game. While Epic Games has yet to disclose full details, gamers can expect a collection of items and cosmetics as part of a bundle.
Based on the post, the official reveal will happen on August 18, 2025, at 8:30 PM PST/11:30 PM EST.
Diablo IV will open its 2.4.0 Public Test Realm (PTR) ahead of the next season. The testing period allows players to try the upcoming patch changes and new features before season 10 goes live.
According to Blizzard Entertainment, the PTR will include trial runs of the base game and the Vessel of Hatred edition. Specifically, this phase focuses on features like refined Infernal Hordes, Chaos Perks, and the all-new Chaos Armor.
In addition, the video game developer emphasizes that the updates will change how players approach gearing, increase the intensity, and add bonuses.
Diablo IV: Season 10 is set to introduce more intense Infernal Hordes. During a run, players will encounter fresh Chaos Monsters that become buffs when destroyed. At the same time, there are Chaos Waves that increase difficulty but reward more once survived. Ultimately, users will be given the chance to choose between going against the Fell Council or battling Warlord of Blood Bartuc to end the Infernal Hordes run.
Chaos Perks are shaking up the buildcraft of Diablo IV with many ways to play. They introduce a new layer of progression to the game. Available in four rarities (Magic, Rare, Legendary, Unique), these perks change the way skills function. Each class gets 16 perks — four for each rarity and four for each class. Specifically, the Chaos Perks in the new patch update allow players to dispense devastating combos, chaotic bursts, and risk-reward mechanics. With both universal and class-specific options, Chaos Perks unlock distinct, game-changing playstyles.
Chaos Armor debuts as the game’s latest Unique Armor type. Additionally, it is more powerful than other Unique items in previous versions of the game. As it serves as a stronger Item slots counterpart, it unlocks new ways for players to unleash destruction. Likewise, it will always appear at maximum power level and at least have one greater affix. The armor also shifts into items that occupy a different slot than its original type. Particularly, the Chaos Armor will be available in slots such as the boots, chest, gloves, helm, and pants.
The upcoming 2.4.0 PTR for Diablo IV will be live from August 19 – 26. Accordingly, Blizzard Entertainment will gather community feedback to make necessary adjustments in order to remove bugs and fine-tune the overall gameplay. Furthermore, the PTR allows the developers to enhance the gaming experience as they test new systems.
When it comes to skincare, one step you should never skip is suncream. With summer in full swing, it’s especially important to stay consistent, to reduce the risk of sun damage, and protect your natural glow. Often, SPFs consisted of a heavy greasy formula, which made applying makeup on top feel suffocating. However, there have been many recent developments in making them more comfortable to wear, as well as product launches that provide protection of up to SPF 50 but feel undetectable – as if you’re wearing nothing. Now, with shelves full of options, it can be overwhelming to identify which formulas deliver and show results. That’s why we’ve rounded up the absolute best SPFs that beauty lovers swear by and do more than protect – they elevate your routine.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVAir Daily Invisible Fluid SPF 50 This sunscreen is a lightweight serum base which utilises UVAir technology to protect you from harmful UV rays whilst keeping oiliness to a minimum for up to 16 hours! This SPF not only offers invisible protection to the point where you forget you’re wearing it, but it also contains hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to help even out skin tone and give a smooth, skin-like finish. An additional plus is that this La Roche-Posay formula is non-comedogenic and therefore won’t clog up your pores like some others – perfect for those with normal to oily skin types.
Available at La Roche Posay for £25.00.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF 50 This K-Beauty SPF is a rice water infused lotion which after applied, dries down to a sheer satin finish. Although this product is highly moisturising and deeply hydrating, it is weightless and gentle on the skin – perfect for those with sensitive skin types or acne prone skin. Formulated with calming extracts, this SPF avoids any stinging or irritation upon application. On top of that, this silky sheer sunscreen will leave your skin glowing, blurring any imperfections, yielding a radiant glass skin appearance.
Available at Boots for £13.95.
Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 30 This lightly tinted cream enhances your natural glow by adding a subtle, luminous sheen – it’s like your skin but better. This viral SPF is made up of a weightless formula that protects your skin from sun damage without the stickiness and grease. It also again contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to not only maintain the skin’s protective moisture barrier, but also promote firmer, more resilient skin. Overall, if you’re going for a dewy sun-kissed look, the Supergoop! SPF is definitely worth including into your skincare routine!
Available at Space NK for £18.00.
La Mer The SPF 50 UV Protecting Fluid This luxurious lotion blends well and melts into the skin, giving that natural feeling, so that you can stay protected without the white cast. Formulated from sea kelp and antiaging vitamins and minerals such as La Mer’s Miracle Broth, this holy grail SPF keeps the skin soft, supple, and hydrated whilst preventing the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. With this lightweight formula it helps your skin to fend off premature ageing, as well as sun damage. Ultimately, if you’re looking for a high-end, breathable sunscreen that actually feels good on your skin, and plays nice with your makeup, then your search ends here!
Available at LA Mer for £95.00.
A note before we begin. Although the editors of the tome under review elected to list Japanese names in their native order—family name first, personal name second—I will use this format only when citing the book’s title and specific television shows. Japanese names in all other instances will appear in the western format: personal name first, surname last. So: I’ll call The Cinema of Kinoshita Keisuke and The Kinoshita Keisuke Hour by name, but otherwise refer to the eponymous director as Keisuke Kinoshita.
In Audie Bock’s 1978 study Japanese Film Directors, Masaki Kobayashi—the maker of such classics as Samurai Rebellion (1959), The Inheritance (1962), and Kwaidan (1964)—said the following about his mentor, Keisuke Kinoshita: “He can do anything; no one has as much breadth as he does. He’s a real film genius, the only one in the postwar era.” Despite this praise and their professional association, these directors, in many ways, couldn’t have been more unalike. Kobayashi directed a mere twenty features; Kinoshita helmed fifty-one—nearly three times as many. Kobayashi, through his movies, depicted a harsh world populated by rebellious characters; Kinoshita used cinema to showcase an unabashed love for humanity. Kobayashi abhorred television, shooting his drama The Fossil on the condition that he could subsequently edit the show into a 200-minute movie; his mentor not only embraced the small screen but used it to forge a second career in 1964. And in terms of book-length studies in English: Stephen Prince blessed us with a valuable Kobayashi tome in 2017; Kinoshita, sadly, has long lacked the same level of scholarship.
But now, almost thirty years after the man’s death, Edinburgh University Press has published a volume to help fill that gap. Edited by David Desser and Earl Jackson, The Cinema of Kinoshita Keisuke: Films of Joy and Sorrow is a collection of thirteen essays with topics ranging from the titular moviemaker’s technique to the impact his work had on generations of moviegoers (and, it turns out, television viewers). Kinoshita started directing in 1943, the same year as his contemporary Akira Kurosawa. (Eerily enough, they each passed away in 1998, shortly after Kinema Junpo magazine ran a special issue on the two “perhaps,” as Lauri Kitsnik suggests in her essay, “in anticipation […] of the impending demise of both filmmakers.”) Kinoshita is arguably best known for the tear-soaked drama Twenty-Four Eyes (1954), about a schoolteacher who watches her students grow up through Japan’s prewar, wartime, and postwar years. And while The Cinema of Kinoshita Keisuke grants substantial attention to that picture, the book goes above and beyond to discuss other titles in his filmography and how they operated within their genres and aesthetic frameworks.
The thirteen essayists pick and choose from Kinoshita’s fifty-one pictures to delve into their chosen topics. Earl Jackson discusses the “contrary messages” of Kinoshita’s wartime films, Daisuke Miyao tackles cinematography and filters it through the observations of New Wave director—and former assistant to Kinoshita—Yoshishige “Kiju” Yoshida, etc. And in what is most welcome for enthusiasts of the filmmaker under discussion, at long last we’ve received a healthy dose of information regarding the director’s television career. Kinoshita not only endorsed TV but even went so far as to form his own production company to capitalize on the medium. And given that the shows he made (Kinoshita Keisuke Theater, The Kinoshita Keisuke Hour, Kinoshita Keisuke’s Songs of People) aren’t available outside Japan, it’s a treat to at least learn about their origins and reception.
Sprinkled in along the way are glimpses into the director’s life and personality. One highlight comes from filmmaker Yoji Yamada, who comments that no one could join Kinoshita’s team unless they were “an elegant, well-groomed young man.” This (perhaps facetious) remark fits in with speculative tangents attempting to draw connections between the story/visual elements in Kinoshita’s films and their maker’s sexuality. In 1951, the director made a film called Wedding Ring, about a married businesswoman and the emotional fracas she experiences after meeting a handsome doctor played by Toshiro Mifune. This picture contains numerous shots of Mifune—including one wherein the camera travels up his body as he prepares to leap into the ocean—that Earl Jackson has suggested not only represented the heroine’s viewpoint but was also Kinoshita’s way of encouraging “an identification with the onscreen woman by gay male spectators.” In the book, Jackson further speculates that Kinoshita, through his experience as a gay man, might’ve sympathized with a subplot in 1954’s The Garden of Women regarding a young girl who is forbidden to be with the person of her choosing.
The Cinema of Kinoshita Keisuke is rich with translated statements from the titular director as well as his staff—not to mention film scholars in Japan. (In fact, one of the essays, Mina Ku’s, originally appeared in the Japanese publication Eizogaku and was converted into English for this book by Adam Sutherland.) However, there is a particularly disturbing bit of “research” worth addressing. The second-to-last essay comes from editor David Desser, who at one point directly quotes Wikiwand, of all places! Now, I’m the first to admit that wikis can play a role in contemporary research: as starting points to scan references and compile lists of resources to look into later. But to quote a platform that anyone can edit at any time—to treat it as the final step rather than the first—is immediately suspect. To Desser’s credit, he does this just once, but I won’t pretend I wasn’t disappointed to see a reputable scholar resort to such laziness.
Keisuke Kinoshita’s filmography has never been more accessible to Occidental viewers: the bulk of his works is presently available on platforms such as the Criterion Channel in the U.S. and on BFI Player and Box of Broadcasts in the U.K. Given that we live in an age when one can enjoy gems such as The Girl I Loved (1946), Carmen Comes Home (1951), A Japanese Tragedy (1953), and The Snow Flurry (1959), it’s ideal and only fitting to also have an informative text on the man who made them. The Cinema of Kinoshita Keisuke is a much-needed book that has arrived at the most opportune time.
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