Fires on the Plain

Synopsis

Fires on the Plain (2015), directed by Shinya Tsukamoto, is a harrowing war drama set during the final days of World War II in the Philippine jungles. The film follows Private Tamura, a sick and isolated Japanese soldier, as he struggles to survive amidst the desolation, starvation, and madness ravaging his unit. With the horrors of war manifesting both externally and within his psyche, Tamura embarks on a desperate and haunting journey through the war-torn landscape. The story delves into the raw brutality of combat and the moral ambiguities faced by soldiers, offering a visceral exploration of human endurance and despair. The film’s stark black-and-white cinematography enhances its grim and immersive atmosphere.

Cast

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  Shinya Tsukamoto

  Tamura

• 

  Tatsuya Nakamura

  Corporal

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  Lily Franky

  Yasuda

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  Yuko Nakamura

  Tamura's Wife

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  Yusaku Mori

  Nagamatsu

• 

  Hiroshi Yamamoto

Reviews

Fires on the Plain received a generally positive critical reception, praised for its intense and unflinching portrayal of war. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an 88% approval rating, indicating strong acclaim for its uncompromising vision and powerful direction by Shinya Tsukamoto. Critics have lauded its striking black-and-white visuals and the performance of the lead, which effectively convey the psychological and physical torment of the protagonist. However, some reviewers noted the film’s grim and bleak tone can be challenging and might not appeal to all viewers. Metacritic did not aggregate a score for this film, but on IMDb, it holds a 6.6/10 rating, reflecting mixed to positive audience responses where some appreciated its artistic approach, while others found it difficult due to the movie’s relentless grimness. Overall, Fires on the Plain is regarded as a profound, though demanding, anti-war statement that vividly captures the futility and horror of conflict.