Nihon rettô is an outstanding film, a brilliant multi faceted unpredictable drama of extraordinary dimension. The complexing thriller begins with the discovery of a floating body, the death of an American serviceman which ultimately leads to a far reaching criminal investigation. The CID investigate crimes committed by American servicemen and they take on the responsibility for this cold case. Their headquarters are on the local American Military Base which is staffed by both American and Japanese investigators, however it is the Americans who have an overriding power of control..The subsequent investigation, somewhat hindered, uncovers a sophisticated dark world of corruption & organised local & international crime,
Menacingly throughout, American war planes roar overhead. The incisive film boldly criticises American foreign policy in Japan, Asia and further afield . The setting is 1959, a time of civil unrest and agitation as Japanese youth movements protest against the upcoming renewal of the ANPO treaty...
Kei Kumai's unflinching socially critical works have great depth and a tremendous dramatic force. His style of powerful simplicity presents controversial themes with astonishing artistic inventiveness. A superb cast of characters, the black and white cinematography of "A Chain Of Islands" is exceptional.
Winner of the 1966 "Blue Ribbon Award", Best New Director, and at the 1966 "Kinema Junpo Awards", Best Screenplay Kei Kumai ...
Highly Recommended.!!
