Shanghai Landing Party 1939
Dive into the gripping documentary-drama Shanghai Landing Party (1939), directed by Hisatora Kumagai, which masterfully reconstructs the harrowing Battle of Shanghai through a human lens.
Director: Hisatora Kumagai
Cast
Den Obinata
LTJD Mine (as Den Obinata)
Sōji Kiyokawa
ENS Maeda
Hyo Kitazawa
Ko Yamamuro
Mitsuo Tsuda
Ichiro Tetsu
ENS Todo
Kan Yanagiya
Hideo Nakamura
Hachiro Sekiguchi
Ryo Sayama
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shanghai Landing Party (1939) about?
Shanghai Landing Party recreates the chaos of the Battle of Shanghai through the lens of Japan's marine regiment, which struggles to protect Japanese residents and Chinese refugees from the violence engulfing the city. The film blends documentary-style storytelling with dramatic sequences, offering a stark portrayal of wartime survival and the moral complexities of military intervention.
Who directed Shanghai Landing Party?
The film was directed by Hisatora Kumagai, a filmmaker known for his work in documentary and wartime cinema.
Who stars in Shanghai Landing Party?
The lead roles are portrayed by Den Obinata, Sōji Kiyokawa, Hyo Kitazawa, Ko Yamamuro, and Mitsuo Tsuda.
Is Shanghai Landing Party (1939) worth watching?
While Shanghai Landing Party is a product of its time—with clear propagandistic elements—its historical value and atmospheric tension make it a fascinating watch for those interested in wartime cinema. The film's blend of documentary realism and dramatic storytelling offers a unique perspective on a pivotal conflict, though viewers should approach it with an understanding of its context.
How long is Shanghai Landing Party?
Shanghai Landing Party has a runtime of 93 minutes.
About Shanghai Landing Party (1939) — A documentary-drama of war, resistance, and civilian survival
Dive into the gripping documentary-drama Shanghai Landing Party (1939), directed by Hisatora Kumagai, which masterfully reconstructs the harrowing Battle of Shanghai through a human lens. This 93-minute wartime film blends documentary realism with dramatic storytelling, following Japanese marines as they shield civilians—women, children, and refugees—from the chaos of urban warfare. Kumagai's understated approach contrasts sharply with the film's opening, where a stern, official narration frames Japan's military actions in a self-justifying light. The atmosphere is tense yet restrained, capturing both the brutality of conflict and the fragile resilience of those caught in its crossfire.
As a historical artifact, Shanghai Landing Party offers a rare, unflinching glimpse into wartime propaganda and its intersection with civilian suffering. The documentary style immerses viewers in the era's political and social upheaval, while the narrative focus on humanitarian efforts adds emotional weight. With a cast led by Den Obinata and Sōji Kiyokawa, the film balances stark realism with moments of quiet heroism, making it a compelling watch for history buffs and film enthusiasts alike.
