Japanophiles shouldn't miss Japanese Currents, an annual program of contemporary Japanese cinema presented by Portland's own Northwest Film Center. This year's slate is characteristically eclectic, offering everything from anime to jidaigeki (also known as samurai films), plus comedies, documentaries and more, so there's something for everyone. Notable directorial names like Takeshi Watanabe and Hiromasa Yonebayashi are represented, but you'll also get a look at short films by up-and-coming directors from Portland's sister city of Sapporo. Overall, each film offers a unique insight into modern Japanese society, opening a window to the Far East from the comfort of the Portland Art Museum's Whitsell Auditorium.