Princes of the Yen (2014)
Princes of the Yen, a thought-provoking documentary released in 2014. Set against the backdrop of 20th-century Japan, this film masterfully unravels the enigmatic role and immense power wielded by Central Banks—institutions that often operate in secrecy and remain misunderstood by the general public.
The documentary explores how Central Banks can significantly impact a country’s economic, political, and social structures. These institutions, shrouded in complexity and jargon, hold immense sway over our everyday lives.
Based on the book by Professor Richard Werner, the film takes us on a journey through the history of Japan, revealing the intricate puzzle of central banking. It demystifies their actions and sheds light on their far-reaching consequences.
Richard Werner, our guide, meticulously connects the dots, showing how seemingly disparate events are intricately linked. The film provides a fresh perspective on economics, revealing hidden connections that often elude popular discourse.
- Background:
- In 2003, Werner’s book, also titled Princes of the Yen, became a bestseller in Japan. However, the English version remained relatively obscure, still in its first edition even a decade later.
- The documentary serves as a sequel to 97% Owned, a film that explored money creation and its impact. Realizing that they hadn’t fully grasped the role of central banks, the filmmakers embarked on this project to fill that gap.
- Key Themes:
- Central Bank Secrecy: The film unveils the hidden world behind closed doors, where central banks operate away from public scrutiny.
- Economic Crisis: Werner dissects the role of central banks during economic crises, revealing their influence on policy decisions.
- Inducing and Directing Change: Despite lacking a formal mandate, central banks play a pivotal role in shaping a nation’s trajectory.
- Noteworthy Figures:
- Andrew Piper: Provides voice narration.
- Richard Werner: Appears in archive footage, sharing insights.
- Noriko Yamagiwa: Contributes to the exploration of central bank dynamics.
- Impact:
- Princes of the Yen is an independent, self-funded documentary that shines a light on a world that prefers to remain hidden.
- By peeling away layers of complexity, the film leaves us with a profound understanding of how central banks drive change—often without a clear mandate.
In summary, Princes of the Yen invites viewers to question the power structures that shape our economies and societies. It’s a compelling exploration of financial forces that impact us all, even when they operate behind the scenes.
