Recently I watched The Railway Man, a film about a former British Army officer who was tormented as a prisoner of war during World War 2. He discovers that the man responsible for much of the ill treatment he received at a Japanese labor camp is still alive. He then sets out to confront him.
Reasons for watching the film I may have a few:
- It stars Mr Darcy alias Colin Firth
- It is nice to recall trips I made to filming locations in Thailand
Right next to me in the tour van on a latest tour of the Death Railway in Kanchanaburi was a Japanese guy in his early twenties. Our chat went like this:
“So you studied in London?”
“I had to… Dad’s assignment was there – banking and finance… How did you find London?”
“Cold. Expensive. Perfect for the history lover in me.”
In grad school I took a course in International Negotiation where I learned this bit of advice on dealing with the Japanese: do not talk about World War II. I had a Japanese classmate who kept on chuckling when we smilingly turned to her as this point in the lecture came up.
Railway Man Eric Lomax got into trouble for building a radio. As I remember from the film he also loved trains. My favorite part is of course resolution: getting over a “lifetime of bitterness and hate.” Forgiveness. Peace.
Reviews and ratings are available here.
Thanks to our hosts:
Rubbish Tuesday * Ruby Tuesday Too * Our World * ABC Wednesday
Sounds like a movie I would like, his road to forgiveness I’m sure is a bumpy one.
Ann
I do like movies that have a Resolution. Sounds like a fascinating one to see.
Saw Colin Firth on The Daily Show recently. Movie sounds interesting.
ROG, ABCW
That’s interesting, I have a copy of the book which I’ve not felt inclined to read, but now you have explained the storyline, I shall try to read it. I’m sure, if it is not to my liking my husband will enjoy it, on our next holiday
Best wishes,
Di..
I haven’t seen the film, but any stories connected with the wars fascinate me.
Sounds like a book and a movie I would like. Thanks for the review. I’ve put the book on my wish list since I like to read the book before seeing the movie. I have a thing for trains. Thanks for linking up!
Something to look into for me!
This sounds very interesting.
I would definitely like to see that movie! Reminds me of the movie ‘Mission’ about forgiveness and mercy.
I had not heard of this movie, but it sounds extremely interesting. Great historical photos you have shared.
~Lindy