The Burmese Harp

I must admit I was hoping for something more inventive from Ichikawa, something with the boldness of An Actor’s Revenge.  However, that’s not to say that Burmese Harp isn’t a wonderful work.  A Japanese soldier separated from his troop in Burma after the end of WWII finds himself confronted with the aftermath and embarks on a journey of soul-searching.  This isn’t so much as anti-war film as it is a film that simply mourns the consequences.  Death and the rituals of putting the dead to rest are themes that are repeated throughout, from different viewpoints.  Death connects all of the involved parties, as does music… especially the harp music that serves not only as a beautiful soundtrack, but also a major plot device.  Very moving and expertly crafted.  Rating: 9

IMDb