Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence movie poster

Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence

"Java, 1942 — A clash of cultures, a test of the human spirit."

May 28, 1983 2h 4m 7.3/10 (506 votes)

Originally released in 1983. Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence is a drama/history film. directed by Nagisa Ōshima. With a runtime of 2h 4m, it's an epic theatrical experience.

Starring David Bowie, Tom Conti, and Ryuichi Sakamoto

Synopsis

Island of Java, 1942, during World War II. British Major Jack Celliers arrives at a Japanese prison camp, run by the strict Captain Yonoi. Colonel John Lawrence, who has a profound knowledge of Japanese culture, and Sergeant Hara, brutal and simpleton, will witness the struggle of wills between two men from very different backgrounds who are tragically destined to clash.

Quick Facts

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Release Date May 28, 1983 42 years ago
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Runtime 2h 4m 124 minutes total
User Rating 7.3/10 Great (506 votes)
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Box Office $2.3M Worldwide gross
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Language Japanese Original language
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Country Japan + 2 more

Production Details

Status
Released
Original Language
JA
Revenue
$2,306,560

Production Companies

  • Recorded Picture Company
  • National Film Trustee Company
  • Antares-Nova
  • Oshima Productions
  • Broadbank Investments
  • Asahi Broadcasting Corporation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence about?

Island of Java, 1942, during World War II. British Major Jack Celliers arrives at a Japanese prison camp, run by the strict Captain Yonoi. Colonel John Lawrence, who has a profound knowledge of Jap...

Who directed Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence?

Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence was directed by Nagisa Ōshima.

How long is Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence?

Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence has a runtime of 2 hours and 4 minutes (124 minutes total).

When was Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence released?

Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence was released on May 28, 1983 in theaters.

Who are the main actors in Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence?

The main cast of Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence includes David Bowie, Tom Conti, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Takeshi Kitano, Jack Thompson.

Is Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence worth watching?

Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence has a user rating of 7.3/10 based on 506 reviews, indicating very good reception from audiences.