Abstract:

"This thought-provoking visual essay explores the 'idea of America' held by many Japanese -- an idea based in large part on American advertising images from the 1950s. The film interweaves historical material about Gen. MacArthur and the American occupation of Japan with reminiscences by a variety of Japanese who connect their concept of 'America' to the post-war occupation period, when images of America were powerfully influential in Japan. By Chip Lord."