Beetle Queen Conquers Tokyo (2009)

Untangling the web of cultural and historical ties underlying Japan's deep fascination with insects.

Director:

Jessica Oreck

Writer:

Jessica Oreck

1 win & 1 nomination.

Storyline

Untangling the web of cultural and historical ties underlying Japan's deep fascination with insects.

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Genres:

Documentary

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Details

Official Sites:

Official site

Country:

USA Japan

Language:

English Japanese

Release Date:

12 May 2010 (USA)

Also Known As:

La reina de los escarabajos conquista Tokio

Box Office

Opening Weekend:

$6,498 (USA) (14 May 2010)

Gross:

$10,068 (USA) (14 May 2010)

Company Credits

Production Co:

Myriapod Productions

Technical Specs

Runtime:

90 min 90 min (Buenos Aires Festival Internacional de Cine Independiente)

Color:

Color

User Reviews

Not A Japanese Monster Movie (or video game---thank goodness)

If you're one of those who possesses a chronic fear of insects,do yourself a favour & avoid this film at all costs. That aside,Jessica Oreck's stunning documentary,'Beetle Queen Conquers Tokyo' is a meditation on the people of Japan,and how & why they worship & honour beetles,crickets,etc. We see how the business of harvesting beetles are a cottage industry. Beetles & other insects are viewed with respect there (it may have a lot to do with their grasp of both Buddism & Shinto,an even more ancient religion that views nature as sacred). Jessica Oreck ('An Anatomy Of Memory')directs this loving meditation on what we in the west view as creepy crawly,and are prone to stepping on insects,rather than understanding them (such a pity). Interviews with philosophers & merchants of beetles,crickets,etc.,as well as footage of Japanese citizens being truly one with their surroundings are aplenty. Spoken in English & Japanese with English subtitles. Not rated by the MPAA,this film serves up absolutely nothing to offend (but you may consider leaving the little ones home,as they will find the subtitles a crashing bore,as well as the subject matter)