I was hoping it would entertain me as much as 'Flags of Our Fathers' had - and I'm pleased to say it did! I'd say that aforementioned release pips this companion piece, but the difference in quality is virtually indistinguishable - both are very good films. Ken Watanabe, Kazunari Ninomiya and Ryo Kase all give excellent performances, I enjoyed that trio throughout 'Letters from Iwo Jima'. It's really cool to see the Japanese point of view of the Battle of Iwo Jima, having previously seen the American view last time out. It's also pleasing that the film portrays this side of the story correctly and tells the tale in Japanese, despite being an all-American production. The film reportedly did well in Japan, which I guess confirms that it did a respectable job.

Graphic, real, hard and at times difficult to watch because of it. But this realism is certainly still shy of what really happened. The movie tells the story of the American invasion of Iwo Jima from the point of view of the Japanese. Just a great movie that is sometimes more real than you might expect.

I'm not a big fan of War movies, but this one was pretty interesting. And don't forget to watch the other part, the American view: 'Flags of our Fathers'

Again, I’m of two minds here. On the one hand, Eastwood displays a surprising amount of humanity in relating this story from a Japanese perspective. I can’t think of another American war movie that limits its point of view in this way. On the other hand, the message is a little forced (“look, they’re people too!”) and the characters are just a step or two above cliche.

Eastwood's sensitive and unique portrait of the defending forces on the island of Iwo Jima during the American attack there of WWll. Its especially notable for the time taken to draw out the likable humanity of the particular personalities showcased. A very compassionate take on the fruits of conflict from a surprising source. It is a masterpiece that will move you to tears.