Some have criticized this picture for not featuring genuine Japanese actors in the leading roles. Remember: this was shot in '61 and there weren't any big name Japanese actors in Hollywood then. Viewers should suspend disbelief and just enjoy the story. Guinness does a good job and brings dry humor to the portrayal. Russell's Jewish Mommele is a bit overdone and laid on with a trowel, but still not bad. The personal stories and exchanges between the two are very touching and I like the rebuke to the younger folks who haven't the life experience to make the judgements about race and religion.
The final scene is priceless and moving.
I give the picture a 9 instead of a 10 only because the Eddie character was a bit annoying.
The final scene is priceless and moving.
I give the picture a 9 instead of a 10 only because the Eddie character was a bit annoying.