Red Army/PFLP: Declaration of World War

About This Movie

Red Army/PFLP: Declaration of World War is a fascinating documentary that captures a volatile moment in history, merging cinema with political activism. Filmmakers Wakamatsu Koji and Adachi Masao ventured into Lebanon during the early '70s, aiming to encapsulate the spirit of resistance among the Japanese Red Army and the Palestinian factions. The film's raw, almost guerilla-style approach adds an immediacy that pulls you into the tense atmosphere of the time. It’s not polished, but that’s part of its charm. The pacing varies, reflecting the urgency of the subjects. You can almost feel the weight of the world pressing down on the filmmakers, making it an utterly unique document of a revolutionary era.

This film is pretty rare; it was produced during a time when political documentaries were often overshadowed by mainstream cinema. As collectors of political cinema or historical documents know, its scarcity makes it a noteworthy piece, especially considering its raw visual style and the historical context. It often appears in niche collections, but finding it in good condition is a challenge. Its relevance to radical movements in both Japan and Palestine keeps it intriguing for those interested in revolutionary cinema.