Watch The Great War of Archimedes

The Great War of Archimedes from 2019 is an epic historical drama that tells the story of the lead-up to the most pivotal Naval battle of World War II, The Battle of Midway. Directed by Takashi Yamazaki, the movie features an all-star cast, including Jun Kunimura, Minami Hamabe, and Masaki Suda. The story is based on actual events and follows the efforts of Japanese naval engineer Mitsuru Yoshida (Kunimura), who is tasked with constructing a prototype torpedo that can outmatch the U.S. Navy's torpedoes. Despite initially facing resistance from his superiors and colleagues, Yoshida perseveres and finally develops a torpedo that can make a fatal blow to an enemy ship.

The Great War of Archimedes also delves into how the lead-up to the Battle of Midway climaxed. The action-packed movie depicts the tense geopolitical situation that existed between the United States and Japan following the Pearl Harbor attack. The Japanese Navy's plans for the Operation MI, also known as the Midway operation, is orchestrated by Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto, portrayed by Hiroshi Tachi, while Rear Admiral Tamon Yamaguchi, played by Tadao Nakamaru, is tasked with leading the battle.

However, the Japanese Navy's plan is not as air-tight as they initially think. The movie shows how the Americans managed to intercept Japanese wireless communication and make predictions about their next moves. Bonner Fellers, an intelligence officer played by John Krasinski, is at the forefront of the American strategy, dealing with his guilt about recommending a surprise attack on Japan, ultimately leading to the Atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

As the massive Japanese fleet, complete with aircraft carriers and battleships, head towards Midway Island, the American Navy attempts to thwart their plans with the help of their code-breaking abilities, and a small but highly skilled group of fighter pilots. Through a series of intense naval and aerial battles, the movie eventually culminates in the deciding battle of Midway, one the most crucial Naval battles in World War II.

The Great War of Archimedes delivers some top-drawer cinematic sequences, especially the naval battles that showcase the sheer power of the Japanese fleet, the American fighters, and the sense of chaos in the open waters. The film also shines a light on the unsung heroes of the period, including the American code-breakers and the Japanese engineers, who played an essential role in the war efforts.

Jun Kunimura delivers a standout performance as Mitsuru Yoshida, who becomes determined to create a torpedo that can outmatch the Allied forces. His groundbreaking invention goes on to prove a game-changer for the Japanese Navy's strategy, and his character's passion and resilience are sure to inspire the audience.

In contrast, Masaki Suda's role as Shingo Isawa, a math prodigy turned Kamikaze pilot, showcases the sense of duty towards their motherland for many Japanese soldiers, but ultimately reveals the senseless waste of lives orchestrated by the Japanese Imperial Army.

The female lead of The Great War of Archimedes, Minami Hamabe, plays Chiharu, a woman who falls in love with Mitsuru and ends up using her wits and intelligence to help him. Her character brings depth to the plot and showcases how crucial non-combat roles were in the war.

Overall, The Great War of Archimedes is a dazzling spectacle that provides insight into the human side of war. With powerful performances and epic visuals, it's an engaging and moving cinematic experiences that is sure to leave a lasting impression. If you're a fan of war and historical dramas, this movie is a must-watch.

The Great War of Archimedes is a 2021 action movie with a runtime of 2 hours and 10 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.