War Drama History The Human Condition Collection

The Human Condition II: Road to Eternity

Name: The Human Condition II: Road to Eternity
Director: Masaki Kobayashi
Genre: War, Drama, History
Released: 1959-01-01
Duration: 178 min
Rating: 8.2
Cast: Tatsuya Nakadai, Michiyo Aratama, Kokinji Katsura, Jun Tatara, Michirō Minami

1959Dir. Masaki Kobayashi2h 58m

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Runtime2h 58m

Released1959

DirectorMasaki Kobayashi

About This Movie

The Human Condition II: Road to Eternity is quite a heavy piece. Kaji’s journey through the military exposes the raw brutality of war and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals. The pacing is deliberate, which allows you to really soak in the atmosphere of despair and conflict. Kobayashi's direction emphasizes long takes that make the viewer feel the weight of these moments. The performances, especially by Tatsuya Nakadai as Kaji, are intense and carry a palpable sense of anguish. Watching Kaji's revolt against the system feels deeply personal. The practical effects, while not flashy, are gritty and serve the film’s realism. Overall, it’s a continuation of a powerful narrative that doesn’t shy away from the darker sides of humanity.

Runtime: 180 minutes; Black and white filmPart of a trilogy, following The Human Condition IBased on the novel by Junpei GomikawaAwarded Best Director at the 1959 Berlin Film Festival