All customer reviews

This film was on the list of movies to see for years and I’m glad I finally have seen it. Not only is it a very moving film, which reminded me of some parts like Bridge of the river Kwai as set in a Japanese pow camp during WW2 and how the British officers interacted and at time defied with the Japanese guards I found Bowie’s part in the movie striking and fascinating. Fan’s of the artist should definitely add it to their collections. The picture and sound quality are great and a nice selection of extras on the disc, as well as a reversible cover with original poster. I was lucky to get a booklet in the set too. I would definitely recommend to WW2 movie fans and Bowie fans too.

Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence is often frustrating to watch, as so much potential is dampened by flat performances and dialogue. David Bowie and Tom Conti give admirable performances, often having to convey more through their faces than their words. The flashback sequences were tender and captivating and Bowie’s resilience is equally so. A pre-psychopathic Yakuza/Cop Takeshi Kitano gives the film surprise doses of charisma and on occasion picks up the authoritative baton where Sakamoto falls short, and manages to conclude the film with a bittersweetness that doesn’t feel contrived. The restoration is fantastic, like all of Arrows are although it’s similarities to Bridge on the River Kwai, it’s still worth a watch.

Lovely presentation of the film, nicely packaged.