Letters from Iwo Jima

Just got back from the theater to watch Letters from Iwo Jima. I was able to catch the first showing of the day so prices were 5 dollars per ticket, which is super cheap compared to the usual 11.25. I almost didn't make the movie because it was REALLY hard to wake up, especially since I slept late from watching Babel the night before. It also didn't help that there was a small snow storm. However, as mentioned before, paying a mere 5 dollars to see this film was definitely worth it.

The movie's film quality was dark and a bit grainy which was a nice touch. The story showed the Japanese perspective in the U.S. invasion of Iwo Jima. I thought Ken Watanabe did a great job, though his character was very similar to that of his role in the Last Samurai. Saigo, the young baker who did not want to be in battle, or how I refer to him as the guy from 嵐, did an unexpectedly good job. The inner conflict between Watanabe and some of his subordinate commanders was interesting, especially because in Japan, honor and loyalty were highly recognized. Overall, the movie was good. The 2.5 hour run time ran by quick. I don't know if it is a movie that I would watch again, because it seemed like one of those flicks where you have to be in the mood to watch. Then again, I thought the same thing when I watched The Last Samurai, but when it starting playing on the AMC channel, I was right there watching it over.. and over.. and over. Now the only movie I have not yet watched that was nominated for Best Picture was the Queen. Oh well, I tried my best. I wonder who will win tonight.......