The Sun

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Virgo V The Sun (Solntse) is a 2005 Russian biographical film directed by Alexander Sokurov, depicting Japanese Emperor Hirohito during the final days of World War II. It is the third film in a trilogy by the Russian director, that includes Taurus, about Vladimir Lenin and Moloch, about Adolf Hitler. The film was entered in the 55th Berlin International Film Festival. It received generally positive reviews from critics aside form the negatives. Certainly not for the impatient, Aleksandr Sokurov's deliberately paced look at Hirohito in the waning days of World War II is both enlightening and admirable in its restraint. The Sun has flaws such as an awkward acting style, a claustrophobic setting and a portrayal of Hirohito that lacks subtlety. The actors seem uncomfortable in their roles, which makes the film feel awkward. Issei Ogata's portrayal of Hirohito is well-rehearsed but lacks subtlety. Emperor Showa's constant mouth movements are distracting and disgusting. Vision says the film was more of a comedy than a serious drama about one of the worst dictators in history. The sets are described as looking like U-Boat corridors, war-ravaged alien planets and doll house rooms. The film portrays Hirohito as an idiot-savant who doesn't seem to understand his role in Japanese imperialism. But wasn't Hirohito just like this? He was a marine biologist at best. The film is long-winded and awfully directed. Some say the film is "arty" and that those who like it are doing so to look trendy. Rated 2.5/5 Stars •  Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 02/03/25 Full Review Leaburn O This film was good 👍🏼 Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 03/25/23 Full Review Audience Member Oddly hypnotic and fascinating. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 01/16/23 Full Review Audience Member A heavyweight masterpiece in a lightweight digital form. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 01/17/23 Full Review Audience Member Sokurov at his most personal, beautiful and haunting. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 01/20/23 Full Review Audience Member Interesting piece of story or history ?! Rated 2.5/5 Stars •  Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 02/15/23 Full Review Read all reviews

The Sun

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