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Movie Info & Details
Release Year1983
Runtime2h 04m
LanguageEnglish
CertificationR
GenresDrama, History, War
Votes536
DirectorNagisa Ōshima
WritersNagisa Ōshima, Paul Mayersberg
TypeFeature Film
Rating7.3 out of 10
Cast10 credited
Also Known AsMerry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence
About Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence
Island of Java, 1942, during World War II. British Major Jack Celliers arrives at a Japanese prison camp, run by the strict Captain Yonoi. Colonel John Lawrence, who has a profound knowledge of Japanese culture, and Sergeant Hara, brutal and simpleton, will witness the struggle of wills between two men from very different backgrounds who are tragically destined to clash.
Directed by Nagisa Ōshima, Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence leans on a strong ensemble — David Bowie, Tom Conti, Ryuichi Sakamoto — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.
The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1983.
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