Tora! Tora! Tora! - Review

I normally start my reviews by going through a quick synopsis of the story, however, if I did that for this film, it would consist of me simply reading a history textbook. This is not a movie that was written based on character or emotion, instead, this is a movie that goes for 100% accuracy to historical fact. So much so, that half the film was directed by an American for the American scenes, and the other half was directed by a Japanese for the Japanese scenes.

To some, that can be really interesting. To others, not so much. If you don't like World War II movies and are hoping that there is some sort of romance plot that can suck you in while World War II is simply the backdrop, then this film isn't for you. The acting isn't the best, some of it downright awful, and there is no emotional connection with any of the characters as they are portrayed as nothing more than their title and rank.

For me, I’ve always been intrigued with World War II history. Sure, you won't find me at a library at 3 in the morning eagerly reading up on all the battles and historical figures, but it has always peaked my interest. This movie is made for the history buffs! It throws away any inkling of sappy character drama which has been replaced with cold hard facts.

So take that for what it is worth. As a film that is actively telling the events leading up to Pearl Harbor in chronological order, it's really interesting. Did I always know who was who and what their rank was? No, but I at least had some sort of idea of who outranked who and what was happening in the timeline. Most importantly, the critical figures in the story (especially the Japanese Commander-in-Chief) were made abundantly clear.

However, and you probably guessed I would go here, the most exciting part of the movie was the final attack on Pearl Harbor. Of course, watching this movie in 2020, not all of the effects hold up. Some can be downright laughable. However for the most part, especially during the attack, it's really impressive!

Overall, I am going to go out on a limb and say that this film isn't the easiest to go back to these days for most people. However, I do recommend it to people extremely interested in World War II history. From what I am told, the events shown in the movie are pretty damn near close to accurate. So if that is important to you in your movie going experience, then this film has you covered.

Just know that it is a film meant to entertain you, sure, but mostly to educate and inform rather than to inspire And while there isn't a true "character story" here, the film does warrant an emotional response once you realize that this stuff, actually happened.

Not a film for everyone, but I am glad I saw it.