The Burmese Harp (1956)

In the heart of World War II, amidst the lush landscapes of Burma in July 1943, a resilient Japanese platoon uses song as a salve for their weary souls, led by their self-taught harpist, Mizushima. A beacon of hope and inspiration, Mizushima's melodies uplift the soldiers even as the Japanese army teeters on the brink of defeat. As the war reaches its somber conclusion, the platoon finds itself languishing in the Mudon prison camp, awaiting repatriation. Mizushima is thrust into the harrowing task of convincing a Japanese company, entrenched within a mountain, to surrender. With only 30 minutes to complete his mission, Mizushima faces the immovable resolve of fellow soldiers who choose honor over survival. Tragedy strikes as the British forces unleash an attack. Mizushima's comrades fear the worst, but unbeknownst to them, he survives, taking on the guise of a Buddhist monk. As he journeys back to Mudon to reunite with his friends, the haunting sight of fallen Japanese soldiers strewn across the countryside overwhelms him. Driven by the devastation he has witnessed, Mizushima vows to dedicate his existence to prayer and the solemn duty of burying the remains of his fallen compatriots. His path takes a spiritual turn, leading him towards a life of Buddhist teachings and away from his brothers-in-arms. Despite their pleas, Mizushima remains caught between the pull of his homeland and his newfound purpose amidst the aftermath of war. "The Burmese Harp" is a poignant exploration of the human spirit, of the melodies that echo amidst chaos, and the transformation of a soldier into a beacon of peace and remembrance in the face of war's unspeakable horrors.

The Burmese Harp is a drama movie featuring Rentaro Mikuni and directed by Kon Ichikawa.

The Burmese Harp is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.