Review of Letters from Iwo Jima (2006) by Priyanka B — 26 Jun 2009

Probably one of the best films I've ever seen since Saving Private Ryan. It not only delves with the problematic imperialist culture Japan had during WW2, but also the truly deep, although faulty, conviction of the Japanese soldiers and officers.

It really delves deep within what many Japanese probably thought during those times, knowing that they would die, but fighting for their dignity and their way of life.

Absolutely well acted for a foreign language film. It was very smooth and realistic without any choppiness and felt absolutely solid in maintaining a good and interesting dialogue to keep the plot moving.

It really brought me to tears in some parts because you knew that there were times where they simply didn't have any hope or resources. Those who showed empathy and love, died and were left in such a dishonoring manner.

It not only shows how war in all cases is man's greatest achievement in destroying themselves, but shows the gray sides. We are thought to believe that the other side is the evil side. Which could be true. But on the other side, it is the same natural nationalism and jingoism that is held.

Letters from Iwo Jima is a finely tuned anti-war film through the means of showing the tragedy and violence of war. It is considered more a war drama and it achieves great success in its story, empathy, aesthetic finesse, and acting.

Wonderful from start to finish.