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Red Army/PFLP: Declaration of World War

Red Army/PFLP: Declaration of World War (1971)

Sep 29, 1971 1h 10m Documentary

On their way back from the Cannes Film Festival in 1971, filmmakers Wakamatsu Koji and Adachi Masao visited Lebanon to meet Japan's Red Army faction and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine to shoot a newsreel film promoting the Palestinian resistance. Conceived as a ‘declaration of world war’ that implicates us all, the directors capture the everyday banality of military training and preparation exercises for imminent battle.

Directed by Kōji Wakamatsu

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Kōji Wakamatsu
  • Masao Adachi
Writer
  • Masao Adachi

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Thematic Analysis

Red Army/PFLP: Declaration of World War represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Kōji Wakamatsu brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1971, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Red Army/PFLP: Declaration of World War took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 70 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 103 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
  • The musical score contains over 55 unique compositions.
  • The costume department created over 335 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 1971, when this film was released:
  • Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
  • The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

While Red Army/PFLP: Declaration of World War shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Red Herring, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Red Army/PFLP: Declaration of World War offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Theory and Practice: Conversations with Noam Chomsky and Howard Zinn and Waltz with Bashir explore similar territory, Red Army/PFLP: Declaration of World War stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: September 29, 1971
  • Runtime: 1h 10m