However, the growing threat from television led to the bankruptcy of Shochiku’s competitors, Shintoho in 1961 and Daiei in 1971, whereas Nikkatsu and Toei turned to movies and soft pornography to maintain attendance. Shochiku continued to maintain its family-orientated audience largely due to the phenomenal success of the directed by Yoji Yamada from 1969 through 1997. However, with the death of its star , the series came to an end, and the company faced increasing financial difficulties. 