Ian Buruma's memoir, "A Tokyo Romance," explores the deep connection cinephiles have with the fictional characters portrayed by stars like Ryu Chishu and Tanaka Kinuyo. He suggests that for film enthusiasts, these characters often feel more genuine than real-life individuals. This emotional investment creates a unique bond between cinephiles and the films they adore.

Buruma also notes that this intense passion for cinema sets film lovers apart from those who appreciate other art forms, such as music or ballet. He describes cinephiles as "creatures of the dark" who find exhilaration in the narratives of others, highlighting the almost haunting allure of film that captivates their souls, making their engagement with the medium particularly profound.