A Classic Japanese Movie of World War II, ‘The Burmese Harp’ Sustains Its Notes of Camaraderie and Compassion

Two elements distinguish this movie from other war films: the prominent use of music and its striking photography. A new 4K digitally restored version arrives Friday at the Film Forum.

Via Janus Films
Rentarô Mikuni as Captain Inouye and cast in ’The Burmese Harp.’ Via Janus Films

The 1956 Japanese film “The Burmese Harp” tells the story of a Japanese infantry unit in Burma (now Myanmar) at the tail end of World War II, and in its meticulous storytelling it achieves a form of grace in harmony with its balancing of themes of brotherhood, individuality, sacrifice, and understanding. 

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