"Onoda" is intentionally slow at times but also intense when it needs to be. The run time is filled with seemingly boring scenes depicting the soldiers' every-day lives. But those scenes also tells the audience how slow time goes by for them. Director Arthur Harari with writers Bernard Cendron and Vincent Poymiro are capable of showing a new aspect of war and what a soldier will believe in just for his mission. The transformation of Onoda from an inexperienced young to a numb old man is beautifully shown with the editing. Actors Yuya Endo and Kanji Tsuda know the character well and can portray each of Onoda's phases perfectly.
The cinematography works well reminding the audience of the realism of the film and the tone of the film. Even the shootings and the bombings shown in the film are cruelly realistic. It's impressive to see the soldiers come up with their own theories and plans and dismissing everything that is being told to them by the outside world. Every element of this film works together to bring an unforgettable and emotional experience despite the film's length.
The cinematography works well reminding the audience of the realism of the film and the tone of the film. Even the shootings and the bombings shown in the film are cruelly realistic. It's impressive to see the soldiers come up with their own theories and plans and dismissing everything that is being told to them by the outside world. Every element of this film works together to bring an unforgettable and emotional experience despite the film's length.