Eastwood juxtaposes bloody conflict well

A memorable double from actor/director Clint Eastwood, ‘Flags of our Fathers’ and ‘Letters from Iwo Jima’ (Warner, €24.99 or €27.99 each) looks at one of the bloodiest conflicts during World War II — the invasion of Iwo Jima.

In the former, the fates of five soldiers, who raised the victory flag, are revealed, while in the latter, the extraordinary resistance of Japanese defenders and General Kuribayashi (Ken Watanabe) lingers long in the mind.

Some remarkable battle scenes distinguish the titles, but what’s most arresting are the tenacity and courage of soldiers in victory and defeat.

Both titles are released together in a limited edition, or in separate single and double disc releases, the latter boasting many excellent extras.

War

Star rating: 5/5