Review of Fires on the Plain (1959) by Zhanyi J — 11 Nov 2010
A harrowing and depressing statement of the human condition during wartime on the losing side. A Japanese soldier named Tamura diagnosed with TB is not wanted by his unit and will not be admitted to the hospital.
He begins to wander through the Philippine landscape. He meets up with a variety of soldiers on his journey, experiences thoroughly appalling atrocities and is faced with terrible choices and decisions as well as getting involved in the personal war between Yasuda and Nagamatsu, two soldiers who were once loyal friends.
This is one of the most disturbing portraits of war put to the screen. Never overstated, meticulously observed by a terrific director and with a dedicated performance from Eiji Funakoshi, Fires on the Plain is harsh viewing, but truly outstanding.
This review of Fires on the Plain (1959) was written by Zhanyi J on 11 Nov 2010.
Fires on the Plain has generally received very positive reviews.
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