Film Forum

A drama based on the true story of Hiroo Onoda, the legendary Japanese soldier who spent 30 years in the Philippine jungle, refusing to surrender because he was convinced World War II had not ended. Camouflaged by leaves and bark, shooting water buffalo for sustenance, Onoda will not believe even the recordings of his brother’s voice, imploring him to give up, or the magazine articles left for him in the jungle, meant to enlighten him about a world that had changed dramatically since 1944. (His response: paranoid conspiracy theories about the enemy concocting fake news.) Was Onoda a self-deluded fanatic or a paragon of patriotism? Harari’s poignant, epic drama reveals the complexities of the man who became a modern myth – and the inspiration for Werner Herzog’s recently published novel, The Twilight World.

2021     173 MIN.     FRANCE / JAPAN     IN JAPANESE WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES    
DARK STAR PICTURES

Reviews

“Magnificently portrays honor, patriotism, duty and fake news via superb performances, imparting an unfailingly cinematic sweep. Wrenching, harrowing, lump-in-throat viewing. An ambitious undertaking that fulfills its promise. Tackles the incredible true story of the titular Japanese soldier who spent 30 years hiding in the Philippine jungle unaware that the Second World War was over. The gripping tale of misguided patriotism. Excellent performances and well-tailored cinematic choices. This old soldier’s ritualistic devotion to the memory of his fallen comrades subtly highlights the idiocy and brutality of war but Onoda’s stubborn faith in his military hierarchy has a residual beauty all its own.”
– Lisa Nesselson, Screen International

“An epic immersion in the life of Hiroo Onoda, the last soldier in the Japanese army to surrender almost 30 years after WWII ended. Make no mistake, this is a landmark cinema event that instantly stands with Kubrick’s PATHS OF GLORY…  May be the ultimate testament to the futility of all wars. This remarkable figure in history is played (by two actors). The transitions are seamless. Cinematography and editing are Academy quality. The continuity is exceptionally clear. An unforgettable portrait of war for the ages.”  
– Kurt Brokaw, The Independent