The battle of Iwo Jima seen through the eyes of the Japanese soldiers.|Dec. 19, 2006|United States | Japan|141 Min.|R
Genre: Action;Drama;War
Description: “Letters from Iwo Jima,” released in 2006, is a compelling war drama told from the Japanese perspective. The story begins in 2005, as Japanese archaeologists uncover significant artifacts in the tunnels of Iwo Jima. The narrative then shifts to 1944, during World War II, when Private First Class Saigo, a drafted baker longing for his family, is stationed on the island. He is tasked with digging trenches alongside his platoon. Lieutenant General Tadamichi Kuribayashi assumes command, implementing a strategy of underground defenses to counter the impending American invasion.
Kuribayashi faces opposition from his officers, who disagree with his defensive tactics. Amidst the harsh conditions, including poor sanitation and lack of supplies, soldiers suffer and many succumb to dysentery. The arrival of Superior Private Shimizu raises suspicions, as Saigo believes he might be a spy sent to monitor loyalty.
As the battle unfolds, American forces launch a devastating assault, leading to heavy casualties on both sides. Saigo and Shimizu survive multiple skirmishes, but their loyalty is questioned by Lieutenant Ito. Despite being accused of cowardice, Kuribayashi intervenes to save them. The film explores themes of sacrifice, honor, and the human cost of war, offering a poignant glimpse into the lives of those who fought on Iwo Jima.
Cast director: Clint Eastwood
Cast actor: Ken Watanabe, Kazunari Ninomiya, Tsuyoshi Ihara, Ryo Kase, Shido Nakamura, Hiroshi Watanabe, Eijiro Ozaki, Lucas Elliot Eberl, Yuki Matsuzaki, Hiro Abe
Original name: Letters from Iwo Jima