Letters From Iwo Jima

This mirror image of Flags of Our Fathers is, clearly, the superior, more effective movie. Director Eastwood serves up a contemplative, sympathetic portrait of the island's Japanese defenders that makes transparent some things that are otherwise opaque. Even so, there are still nuances of character, concept and culture that are impossible to convey, especially in subtitles. It is, then, a testament to the strength of the performances that they shine brilliantly despite the language and cultural barriers. Highly recommended.