Xanan

I gave a high rating because of the very low (and unfair) ratings here. This may not be a masterpiece but it is a really good-feel movie, that makes you smile throughout. Also, as loosely based on a true story, it made me go on Wikipedia to read about the real events, real people, as well as culture and history of the (American) Samoa people. Fassbender was a surprisingly good choice, as a European coach that did not immediately connect or understand the zen culture of the Samoans. And I loved the Samoan Haka at the end, absolutely wonderful. Really very enjoyable, and perfect for our family outing on 26 December.

The film revisits a harrowing and crucial event in recent Asian history - the Japanese occupation during WWII and all the horrors that came with it.

In this match between the reserved collaborationist chief of police and the innocent student turned brave spy for the Chinese resistance, complex emotions, such as patriotism, courage, honour, loneliness, hate, love and betrayal, are quietly and provocatively depicted.

It is in the (few) sex scenes that the film's emotions become so powerful and character-defining. The story's chief male character expresses himself mainly through those sex scenes, at first violently, as if angry against himself. The young heroine, in turn, learns the art of seduction confidently in order to help kill a traitor, but her patriotic duty soon becomes intolerable, as expressed by her tears in the aftermath of passionate love-making. It is in one later scene, at a Japanese brothel, that lust is finally seen as developing into mutual love.

Direction, acting, score, cinematography and costumes are all first class in this compelling wartime thriller.

The film also pays tribute to film noir masterworks, such as "Casablanca" and "Suspicion", as well as other classics such as "Last Tango in Paris".

Oscar worthy (even if strangely neglected).

This is a very disturbing film, not the least for its immediate topical connotation, as the first few minutes can't help but remind us of the true story of little Madeleine's disappearance in recent months, still haunting the UK and making the daily news today.

What makes this film so particular, beyond its harrowing journey into the depths of the underworld of drugs and pedophilia, is the conflict that ultimately brings the story to an end: the conflict between law and moral justice.

Overall, a well acted film, and an intelligent and audacious script which will leave your mind tinkling.

8 out of 10, highly recommended.