The Burmese Harp explores themes of the senselessness of war, the importance of comradeship and friendship and the emotions felt by soldiers over the loss of a friend.
Director Kon Ichikawa is known for his patient and varied storytelling skills and for developing deep, rich characters.
This simple, 1956 black and white, subtitled classic is wonderfully done in quiet, determined tones like notes plucked on the harp that bears the film’s name.
Mr. Movie rating: 4 1/2 stars
Not rated, probably PG-13. It plays Friday, Nov. 6 only at the Battelle Auditorium at 8 p.m.
5 stars to 4 1/2 stars: Must see on the big screen
4 stars to 3 1/2 stars: Good film, see it if it's your type of movie.
3 stars to 2 1/2 stars: Wait until it comes out on video.
2 stars to 1 star: Don't bother.
0 stars: Speaks for itself.