The Great War of Archimedes

The Great War of Archimedes is a captivating historical drama movie that was released in 2019. Directed by Takashi Yamazaki, the film features a host of talented actors, including Fumiyo Kohinata, Minami Hamabe, and Jun Kunimura.

Set in pre-Second World War Japan, the film showcases a gripping narrative that seamlessly combines suspected corruption, military tactics, and fascinating mathematics. The narrative is based on the real events surrounding the construction of the Yamato, the largest battleship in the world, which was designed for the Imperial Japanese Navy and played a significant role in the war.

In the thick of the plot is Major Tadashi Kai (played by Jun Kunimura), a brilliant mathematician employed by the military. Major Kai's mathematical prowess and his utilization of Archimedes' law, the principle of buoyancy, are vital elements for the story's progression. Together with his beloved student, Tadashi Hashimoto (played by Minami Hamabe), they dive into the dubious dealings surrounding the construction of the Yamato.

Fumiyo Kohinata portrays the role of Isoroku Yamamoto, the Admiral in the Imperial Japanese Navy. He suspects that there may be foul play involved in the approval and creation of the battleship, carrying an exorbitant budget and possibly flawed construction logic. Thus, the admiral tasks Major Kai with the enormous responsibility of uncovering this potential scandal within the high ranks of the Japanese Navy. The relationship dynamics and the splitting of loyalties within the institution forms an intriguing subplot.

The movie unfolds as Major Kai, with his unique blend of an analytical mind and dogged determination, leaves no stone unturned to piece together the complicated puzzle. Through him, the audience gets a glimpse of a conspiracy, possibly leading to the misuse of millions of yen meant for the war effort. This investigation leads to several thrilling sequences that keep viewers on the edge of their seat.

The Great War of Archimedes is not just an intellectual drama; it's also a morality play. As we follow Major Kai and his student, we are constantly reminded of the importance of truth and integrity in the face of corruption and greed. Even in the backdrop of looming war, the film underlines ethical obligations and the value of individual courage.

The film makes clever use of mathematics as a narrative device. While it educates about Archimedes' principle and how it applies to the design of battleships, it never oversteps into the domain of a tedious lecture. The lessons blend seamlessly into the suspenseful plot, amping the intrigue, and even adding a sense of the intellectual thrill.

Director Takashi Yamazaki's attention to period details brings an authentic portrayal of 1930s Japan. The production design, costumes, and props are meticulously crafted, immersing the audience in the era. Japan's socio-political climate, the underlying tension before the war, and the fraught dynamics within the Japanese military are impressively laid out.

The performances by Fumiyo Kohinata, Jun Kunimura, and Minami Hamabe are incredibly convincing and lend credibility to the narrative. Jun Kunimura, particularly, fits into the role of the mathematical genius Major Kai comfortably and is a standout. The young actress Minami Hamabe also gives a strong performance as the zealous student aids in the daunting investigation.

Fumiyo Kohinata, as the Admiral, adds weight to the narrative with his portrayal of a high-ranking official troubled by the possible corruption within his institution. His character is pivotal to the plot, setting in motion the central investigation.

The Great War of Archimedes successfully takes a historical event and turns it into a gripping, intellectual thriller. It skillfully blends various genres, combining them into a riveting drama set against the backdrop of untouched history. This film is not only for those who enjoy historical dramas or war films but also for those seeking a film with emotional depth, suspenseful plot turns, and genuine performances.