I loved this movie, but I warn any dog lovers, especially Husky lovers that it is almost unbearably sad. The fact that it is based on a true story only makes it more so. The two lead characters are willing to risk their lives to go back and rescue, but they are not allowed to do so. I would have risked my life for my dogs too, but I cannot imagine how much more powerful the feelings of shame must have been to them, coming from the Japanese culture. It was an interesting glimpse into their culture when the two leads go to confess their shame to the people who bred the dogs for their expedition back in Japan.
23 Reviews
White Wilderness
sol121819 September 2005
**SPOILERS*** True story that took place during the Geographical year 1957-58, in the freezing ice and snow of Anarctica, by a Japanese expedition team on their journey to the Antarctic Mount. Batnnutan and back;a trek of some 500 miles.
Leaving Showa Base with a team of 16 tough Sakhalin sled dogs the three man expedition of geologist Ushioda meteorologist Ochi and Dr. Ozawa had no trouble reaching their main objective, Mount. Batnnutan. On the way back they ran into heavy snows and fog that caused them to go snow-blind and get lost. Helpless with no way of getting back to their home base the men unleashed two of their sled dogs, Taro & Jiro, who reached Showa Base and brought back a rescue party to save both the three men and 15 sled dogs.
At the base it's reported that the weather had gotten so severe that they would have to abort the expedition and return back to their icebreaker, the Soya, that would take them back home to Japan. Unable to bring them along the men were forced to leave the dogs, including the two who rescued them Taro & Jiro, at the now deserted Showa Base and; thus leave them to the bitterly cold Antarctica winter that was just starting to set in.
Heartwarming and true story of men and dogs and how left on their own the sled dogs, answering the call of the wild, formed a wolf-like pack that for over a year survived everything that the inhospitable Antarctic winter had to offer them; a frozen and agonizing death.
Beautifully photographed with incredible wide angle shots that showed the audience how vast and eerie the Antarctic really is. We see the dogs roaming around like a bunch of dark and unrecognizable black specks in the limitless white background. "Antarctica" also has a number of fascinating views of the Southern Lights, the Borealis Australis, as they illuminate and light up the cold and dark Antarctic winter night.
By the time the winter was over ,in September 1958, the Antarctic spring set in with the ice packs breaking apart and causing a number of the surviving sled dogs to fall into the open waters where they drowned. Back home in Japan both Ushida and Ochi were heart sick over leaving the dogs behind and a year. later going on another Antarctic expedition mostly to find and take back the frozen bodies of the sled dogs, that were like members of their family. The two never expected to find out just how wrong they were in underestimating their courageous and unconquerable canine friends.
Not exactly a "Lassie Come Home" type of movie the film "Antartica" shows how deep the bind is between man and his best friend and companion the dog and it will really touch you when at the end of the movie. With all hope gone, for the dogs left behind, like a winter mirage Taro and Jiro materialized out of the snow to the shock and delight, to the point of tears, of those who so sadly were forced to leave them behind and to face certain death.
Leaving Showa Base with a team of 16 tough Sakhalin sled dogs the three man expedition of geologist Ushioda meteorologist Ochi and Dr. Ozawa had no trouble reaching their main objective, Mount. Batnnutan. On the way back they ran into heavy snows and fog that caused them to go snow-blind and get lost. Helpless with no way of getting back to their home base the men unleashed two of their sled dogs, Taro & Jiro, who reached Showa Base and brought back a rescue party to save both the three men and 15 sled dogs.
At the base it's reported that the weather had gotten so severe that they would have to abort the expedition and return back to their icebreaker, the Soya, that would take them back home to Japan. Unable to bring them along the men were forced to leave the dogs, including the two who rescued them Taro & Jiro, at the now deserted Showa Base and; thus leave them to the bitterly cold Antarctica winter that was just starting to set in.
Heartwarming and true story of men and dogs and how left on their own the sled dogs, answering the call of the wild, formed a wolf-like pack that for over a year survived everything that the inhospitable Antarctic winter had to offer them; a frozen and agonizing death.
Beautifully photographed with incredible wide angle shots that showed the audience how vast and eerie the Antarctic really is. We see the dogs roaming around like a bunch of dark and unrecognizable black specks in the limitless white background. "Antarctica" also has a number of fascinating views of the Southern Lights, the Borealis Australis, as they illuminate and light up the cold and dark Antarctic winter night.
By the time the winter was over ,in September 1958, the Antarctic spring set in with the ice packs breaking apart and causing a number of the surviving sled dogs to fall into the open waters where they drowned. Back home in Japan both Ushida and Ochi were heart sick over leaving the dogs behind and a year. later going on another Antarctic expedition mostly to find and take back the frozen bodies of the sled dogs, that were like members of their family. The two never expected to find out just how wrong they were in underestimating their courageous and unconquerable canine friends.
Not exactly a "Lassie Come Home" type of movie the film "Antartica" shows how deep the bind is between man and his best friend and companion the dog and it will really touch you when at the end of the movie. With all hope gone, for the dogs left behind, like a winter mirage Taro and Jiro materialized out of the snow to the shock and delight, to the point of tears, of those who so sadly were forced to leave them behind and to face certain death.
A good movie. Vangelis score is one again outstanding !
Vince-402 March 1999
Warning: Spoilers
The first time that I watched Antarctica, I was about 8 or 9. It makes me cry a lot because of the dogs who die. Now that I am 18, I have watched the movie again. It is not a great movie but a good one. The cinematography is great. The dogs are well trained and play well.
The best thing about this movie is Vangelis score. Vangelis really knows how to create the ambiance of this cold adventure movie.
And, oh, what a great idea to write the age of the dogs when they die. It surely added dramatic power to those scenes.
It was one of the biggest box office hits in Japan.
The best thing about this movie is Vangelis score. Vangelis really knows how to create the ambiance of this cold adventure movie.
And, oh, what a great idea to write the age of the dogs when they die. It surely added dramatic power to those scenes.
It was one of the biggest box office hits in Japan.
A unique and moving film...
lowweek28 May 2002
I've watched this movie when I was 9 with my classmates. I remember everyone cried when going out the theater... I've watched it again some years later, and I must confess that this is unique movie, with no real equivalent. It's not really a movie, not really a documentary on how several dogs try to escape from Antartica where they've been accidentaly abandonned by a scientific expedition. This movie is highly tragic because very few of them will survive. You don't see them really die on the screen, you just see them *disappear* when their fate is sealed with death, only their name and age is displayed. And that's what makes this movie so moving, and so clever in the narration.
Last but not least : the outstanding continous score is written by Vangelis and is perfect in it's cold/warm synthetizers mood.
I really recommend everyone to see this movie, it's a unique experience, and then buy the score to remember the magnificient pictures and landscapes. Perhaps it's too dark for a child, otherwise you will have to buy him a husky dog puppet to avoid continuous cries and nightmares...
Last but not least : the outstanding continous score is written by Vangelis and is perfect in it's cold/warm synthetizers mood.
I really recommend everyone to see this movie, it's a unique experience, and then buy the score to remember the magnificient pictures and landscapes. Perhaps it's too dark for a child, otherwise you will have to buy him a husky dog puppet to avoid continuous cries and nightmares...
A majestic, important film. A film you remember all your life.
jmil14 February 2006
Warning: Spoilers
I don't give many 10s. So few are deserved. But here, we have a film of real importance. A film which grabs the viewer and never lets go. The audience so identifies with each dog, that as the dogs fight for survival, alone, during a fierce Arctic winter, the story of each one's bravery against impossible odds is both uplifting and saddening. This is a consequence of the expert way the animals were handled in filming, fine acting (esp. Ken Takakura, Japan's biggest box office star for decades), an expertly written story, beautiful cinematography, evocative music (Vangelis) and spot-on direction. This was, to me, one of the few films I've seen which I would call "perfect" in every way. WIthout fault.
The fact that this was the true story of the ill-fated 1958 Japanese Arctic expedition where all but two dogs survived the winter, enables the total suspension of disbelief in the viewer. You know this really happened. And you cheer when you find out that two dogs, Taro and Jiro, who subsequently became national heroes in Japan, survived their almost preordained fate. This was one of the highest grossing movies ever in Japan, which is a testament to how we all, as human beings, feel about the plight of these dogs and, no less, how we feel about our companion animals in general. I recommend this film HIGHLY.
The fact that this was the true story of the ill-fated 1958 Japanese Arctic expedition where all but two dogs survived the winter, enables the total suspension of disbelief in the viewer. You know this really happened. And you cheer when you find out that two dogs, Taro and Jiro, who subsequently became national heroes in Japan, survived their almost preordained fate. This was one of the highest grossing movies ever in Japan, which is a testament to how we all, as human beings, feel about the plight of these dogs and, no less, how we feel about our companion animals in general. I recommend this film HIGHLY.
I would recommend it to anyone.
Audrey-21 October 1998
I know many people only watch movies with lots of special effects or big-name stars, but -Antarctica- must not be overlooked. It's based on a true story; the setting is terrific; and the dogs play their "roles" just as well as the human actors. Kids can watch it without their parents worrying about the content (tho' I'll warn you, some of the dogs *do* die, which may upset youngsters); students interested in Japanese or simply "artsy" films can see it too...in short, anyone can watch it! (Except for the unfortunate few who prefer sex-violence-profanity...too bad for *them*.)
Surprisingly moving
wandering-star5 May 2007
"Antarctica" is the story of the men and dogs of Japan's Antarctic research station in the 50's. Ushioda, Ochi and the rest of the team are forced to leave the dogs behind with Antarctic winter approaching, on the understanding that another team is to arrive in a few days. Once on board the ice breaker, they discover to their horror that due to the weather, no one will be able to make it back until the next spring. The dogs are left chained up to fend for themselves.
The story from there is a mixture of fact and conjecture, concerning what the few dogs who were able to escape their chains, did, and how two did survive until the next spring.
The fate of some of these dogs is very sad, and you may not want to watch this if you're a sensitive dog lover. But, the survival of the lucky ones is inspiring. The dogs are not portrayed as in a children's movie (overly cute) but are shown realistically, being kicked by their masters when they fight, and in one scene, savagely attacking a seal when desperate for food. (which, by the way, looks absolutely real - PETA would not be happy!!) The film goes back and forth between the dogs' plight in Antarctica and Ushioda & Ochi back in Japan, who are beside themselves with guilt and grief over the fate of the dogs.
I was so drawn in to this movie, that when Ushioda & Ochi return the following spring, and are scanning the station from the helicopter, that I found myself straining to see with them, looking hopefully for any sign of life.
Ultimately this is a story about man's relationship with dogs, and the unbreakable bond of love that exists between them.
The story from there is a mixture of fact and conjecture, concerning what the few dogs who were able to escape their chains, did, and how two did survive until the next spring.
The fate of some of these dogs is very sad, and you may not want to watch this if you're a sensitive dog lover. But, the survival of the lucky ones is inspiring. The dogs are not portrayed as in a children's movie (overly cute) but are shown realistically, being kicked by their masters when they fight, and in one scene, savagely attacking a seal when desperate for food. (which, by the way, looks absolutely real - PETA would not be happy!!) The film goes back and forth between the dogs' plight in Antarctica and Ushioda & Ochi back in Japan, who are beside themselves with guilt and grief over the fate of the dogs.
I was so drawn in to this movie, that when Ushioda & Ochi return the following spring, and are scanning the station from the helicopter, that I found myself straining to see with them, looking hopefully for any sign of life.
Ultimately this is a story about man's relationship with dogs, and the unbreakable bond of love that exists between them.
Great
clem_101020 April 2006
There are few movies that really strike you. This is one of them. If you have a heart, then there's no way you can avoid feeling, crying and loving this movie. This year Walt Disney released a new version of it, Eight Below, which I will see this week - and obviously, i will compare!!! But out of all the movies I saw in my childhood, this one is in the top-10... it grabs you and stays in your mind for ever! I don't know yet about the American version, but this Japanese original was so so so good! As you follow the tough life of this bunch of lovely dogs, you experience fear, happiness, sadness, love... the whole thing. As they fight for life in this harsh environment, you also get to appreciate the scenery. They are not all making it though, and you cry and cry and cry... You want to help so much, it brings out all the best in you... A MUST SEE! I am upset there's never been any video/DVD release of that movie, it's a masterpiece! All movies involving cute animals are winners, but this one is really striking and you will never forget it. In a different context, other great and moving movies include L'Ours (France) i.e. The Bear, and Deux Frères (France) i.e. Two Brothers. The later made me cry even more than Antarctica. These two movies really hurt, it's unfair what's happening and you get really sad. But it's so beautiful as well. I hope that Eight Below won't be a crap too-americanised remake. I wish Antarctica was just available, it's not at all and it's a shame that the World can't see it.
Good story, fine concept, regrettably uneven execution
I_Ailurophile19 September 2021
Whether striking a tone more uplifting or tragic, what all survival films have in common - to one degree or another - is being difficult to watch. The barren, beautiful frozen landscapes in this movie both pair and contrast with the fierce, extreme conditions everyone struggles through. Even before the plot meaningfully picks up as efforts go sideways, there's a level of cringe on hand with the experience depicted, and further difficulty in empathizing with the conditions forced on the animals - emphatically more strenuous than those endured by the humans. I can appreciate how 'Antarctica' enjoyed so much popularity and success, not least of all in Japan; the drama is compelling.
The first hour mostly focuses on the people on the continent, and only thereafter does the film become more about the dogs left behind. As it does, the viewing experience becomes notably more arduous, especially for animal lovers. It's heartbreaking enough even if incidents were merely simulated to portray the circumstances the sled team went through. Yet despite the director's assurances, the lack of particular endorsement from an animal safety group makes the production somewhat dubious. Still - much credit to those responsible for training the canines, because they had their work cut out for them. Scenes of the dogs living off the land are generally orchestrated well, and duly captivating.
All this having been said, 'Antarctica' isn't easy to engage with, even putting aside the gut-wrenching trials of the animals. After the first hour, while footage of the huskies on the ice is considered most highly, it's nonetheless interspersed with long moments in much-warmer Japan as members of the human expedition contend with memories and guilt of leaving their companions behind. As a result, the feature often seems less a cohesive whole and more a series of snapshots - further emphasized with narration that works alone to connect the disparate scenes in the absence of a concrete, flowing narrative. The general concept is quite good - it's a story worth telling - but the execution leaves much to be desired.
As the picture is unbalanced and unrefined broadly, its constituent elements likewise suffer. Composer Vangelis is rightly celebrated for his music, but fine as his score for 'Antarctica' may be, it still comes across as both lacking, and not entirely given its due. The drama and emotional investment we should feel is greatly diminished by sequencing that bounces back and forth inconsistently between Japan and the frozen south. I don't have specific cause to doubt director Koreyoshi Kurahara, and in general I think his camerawork and arrangement of scenes is quite suitable; he even captures some especially great shots. Yet the overall rough and inelegant craft of the picture gives me pause, and so it is too with other technical aspects of the production.
At length, I do think this is enjoyable, satisfying, and worth watching. It's also worth mentioning that compared to other features that tell the tale of animals surviving on their own, at no point does it become overwrought with sentiment. On the other hand, that lack of saccharine sensation is partly just because of how the movie is built as a whole. It's just unfortunate that what could have been a complete, riveting, entrancing spectacle of hardship and endurance is dampened by an uneven construction. Even so - bearing in mind the nature of the content, and this absolutely won't be for everyone - 'Antarctica' is worth checking out if you come across it.
The first hour mostly focuses on the people on the continent, and only thereafter does the film become more about the dogs left behind. As it does, the viewing experience becomes notably more arduous, especially for animal lovers. It's heartbreaking enough even if incidents were merely simulated to portray the circumstances the sled team went through. Yet despite the director's assurances, the lack of particular endorsement from an animal safety group makes the production somewhat dubious. Still - much credit to those responsible for training the canines, because they had their work cut out for them. Scenes of the dogs living off the land are generally orchestrated well, and duly captivating.
All this having been said, 'Antarctica' isn't easy to engage with, even putting aside the gut-wrenching trials of the animals. After the first hour, while footage of the huskies on the ice is considered most highly, it's nonetheless interspersed with long moments in much-warmer Japan as members of the human expedition contend with memories and guilt of leaving their companions behind. As a result, the feature often seems less a cohesive whole and more a series of snapshots - further emphasized with narration that works alone to connect the disparate scenes in the absence of a concrete, flowing narrative. The general concept is quite good - it's a story worth telling - but the execution leaves much to be desired.
As the picture is unbalanced and unrefined broadly, its constituent elements likewise suffer. Composer Vangelis is rightly celebrated for his music, but fine as his score for 'Antarctica' may be, it still comes across as both lacking, and not entirely given its due. The drama and emotional investment we should feel is greatly diminished by sequencing that bounces back and forth inconsistently between Japan and the frozen south. I don't have specific cause to doubt director Koreyoshi Kurahara, and in general I think his camerawork and arrangement of scenes is quite suitable; he even captures some especially great shots. Yet the overall rough and inelegant craft of the picture gives me pause, and so it is too with other technical aspects of the production.
At length, I do think this is enjoyable, satisfying, and worth watching. It's also worth mentioning that compared to other features that tell the tale of animals surviving on their own, at no point does it become overwrought with sentiment. On the other hand, that lack of saccharine sensation is partly just because of how the movie is built as a whole. It's just unfortunate that what could have been a complete, riveting, entrancing spectacle of hardship and endurance is dampened by an uneven construction. Even so - bearing in mind the nature of the content, and this absolutely won't be for everyone - 'Antarctica' is worth checking out if you come across it.
Great movie
pepeleyva24 February 2006
When I saw this movie I was really impressed and very very touched, I got a very deep thinking mood, in short words it is an outstanding film. If you liked The Bear or any wild life movie, you will like this one.
I like stories about the Everest, the South Pole, so this movie click on me, but it is not the usual gringo-adventure-survival, it has a very deep force. Vangelis take care of the music, I think it is a good therapy for anyone having a big challenge.
The struggle of the great conquers of ice, like the South Pole or big mountains, every thing is on this movie: friendship, union, faith. The fact that the main actors are the dogs may distract anyone.
I will recommend highly this movie. In fact, I want to got this movie, anyone has a clue where is it sold or download?
I like stories about the Everest, the South Pole, so this movie click on me, but it is not the usual gringo-adventure-survival, it has a very deep force. Vangelis take care of the music, I think it is a good therapy for anyone having a big challenge.
The struggle of the great conquers of ice, like the South Pole or big mountains, every thing is on this movie: friendship, union, faith. The fact that the main actors are the dogs may distract anyone.
I will recommend highly this movie. In fact, I want to got this movie, anyone has a clue where is it sold or download?
Antarctica - Frozen Loss in Unusual Production
krocheav16 June 2019
This $40 million Japanese 2hr 20m epic seems an odd film to come from this notorious Whale hunting country - perhaps it might have been a way of humanising its world 'image' towards animals. The movie spectacularly traces some movements of the ill fated 1958 Japanese Antarctic expedition. It concentrates on the possible survival tactics of the scientist's sled Dog team - using much supposition, and follows a gruelling, imagined trail of survival and death within this unforgiving continent. Ken Takakura gives a strong performance as the guilt ridden dog handler forced to abandon his chained up animals due to severe weather conditions and limited retreat availability - who, 11months later goes back to investigate the outcome. Vangelis provides a sparkling score that almost brings each snowflake to life with an impressive assortment of themes.
Some superb Cinematography captures these marvellous animals as they traverse this endless expanse. I know special effects can do wonders and the production credits claim no animals were harmed but it's difficult to imagine this being completely correct - It's to be thought a high degree of trauma would be needed to recreate scenes of this nature. Antarctica was Japans highest grossing movie for well over a decade. The American 'Eight Below' in 2006 was a handsome re-make of this film which unnecessarily added extra characters and highly romanticised the outcome - allowing more dogs to survive than did in reality. The quality DVD is worth watching.
Some superb Cinematography captures these marvellous animals as they traverse this endless expanse. I know special effects can do wonders and the production credits claim no animals were harmed but it's difficult to imagine this being completely correct - It's to be thought a high degree of trauma would be needed to recreate scenes of this nature. Antarctica was Japans highest grossing movie for well over a decade. The American 'Eight Below' in 2006 was a handsome re-make of this film which unnecessarily added extra characters and highly romanticised the outcome - allowing more dogs to survive than did in reality. The quality DVD is worth watching.
Memorable
marji191916 February 2006
I saw the movie on TV in the late 80's when I was living in Japan and it has always stayed with me. One reason is that my friend, Karla, said it was from Alaska. This was not logical to me because the harnesses on the sleds were "Eastern Arctic", not Western Arctic. The Eastern Arctic harness is like a fan, the Western Arctic/Alaskan style is the straight line with two dogs running side by side with a lead dog.
Another reason is that I adore dogs, and had always asked my father to bring back a Canadian Eskimo Dog (a specific breed) when he traveled north to the Arctic (He refused).
And, finally, the cinematography is beautiful. It was a perfect movie to watch with my limited (almost non-existent) Japanese! The images of the landscape have haunted me since that night in Tokushima in 1987.
Another reason is that I adore dogs, and had always asked my father to bring back a Canadian Eskimo Dog (a specific breed) when he traveled north to the Arctic (He refused).
And, finally, the cinematography is beautiful. It was a perfect movie to watch with my limited (almost non-existent) Japanese! The images of the landscape have haunted me since that night in Tokushima in 1987.
I cried my eyes out
meretsoleil27 December 2004
I must of been 10 or 11yrs old when I saw this movie.I cried so much, my parents couldn't console me. I have never been affected in such a way by an "animal movie." Nankyoku did an excellent job telling the story from the dog's perspective. You form an attachment to the dogs right away. The cinematography places you right in the heart of an icy wonderland. At first you think this is just some movie about 2 explorers/scientist doing some kind of research. Next thing you know, they're done and off they go and leave the dogs behind and it turns into a fight for survival. The score to this movie pulls at your heart strings and you can't help but "feel" the desolation and hopelessness. I really recommend this movie, but make sure you have tissue ready.
Movie That Really Bonds Man with His Dog
pllc159 February 2009
I am not a Disneyesque movie fan about animals and rather preferred seeing the standard top box office movies instead until my girl friend wanted to see Nankyoku Monogatari movie in 1983. We went and I didn't expect much until I saw it. It was more than I could take emotionally as the memories and love I had for my own dogs in the past came pouring out. Truly a great piece of work. I tried to find the movie at BlockBuster but to no avail.
A post script: I visited Sapporo, Hokkaido back in 1994 on a business trip. Over the weekend with nothing to do I took a taxi to the Hokkaido Agricultural Museum. Lo and behold, there was Taro in the place of honor who had been stuffed. How regal he looked. I didn't recall seeing Jiro there but learned later that he is along side of another famous Japanese dog, Hachiko, at the National Science Museum in Tokyo. Anyway, seeing Taro made my day.
A post script: I visited Sapporo, Hokkaido back in 1994 on a business trip. Over the weekend with nothing to do I took a taxi to the Hokkaido Agricultural Museum. Lo and behold, there was Taro in the place of honor who had been stuffed. How regal he looked. I didn't recall seeing Jiro there but learned later that he is along side of another famous Japanese dog, Hachiko, at the National Science Museum in Tokyo. Anyway, seeing Taro made my day.
I want this book
burns-debbie26 February 2006
Where can I buy this book. What a loving movie of friendship and love. After viewing the film that Disney did I came home and I really loved my dog. The wonderful thing that I came away from this film was a strong unconditional Love. Why can't humans learn from these wonderful dogs and their owner. My goodness six months went by and some of the dogs made it through some terrible weather. After everything that these dogs went through they were so happy to once again be with their master. How terrible for the master of these dogs must have felt to leave them behind and not knowing if he would ever see them again. How wonderful it is for someone to believe in something and love the way that this person did for his dogs. Thank you Deb
fascinating and moving
drystyx6 July 2008
How can it not be? Japanese explorers realize too late that they haven't given the sled dogs they left behind enough of a chance. The look of horror on the men's faces stays with you throughout the movie, and you feel with them each time a dog is swallowed up by the water or a whale.
The dogs work together, and are very fit. They may have a chance for survival, but it is treacherous terrain, and a treacherous region of the world.
You try to keep count, and when watching the film you probably won't be able to keep up, so when the humans return, you're not too sure what they'll find.
A moving an stunning movie. I still remember it very well after two decades.
The dogs work together, and are very fit. They may have a chance for survival, but it is treacherous terrain, and a treacherous region of the world.
You try to keep count, and when watching the film you probably won't be able to keep up, so when the humans return, you're not too sure what they'll find.
A moving an stunning movie. I still remember it very well after two decades.
A true story that touches the heart.
markie-1029 June 2006
I saw this film a few years ago and was much taken by it, but only came to realize how good it really is after comparing it to Disney's remake, "Eight Below."
God bless the Japanese crew for telling the story in a straightforward, economic manner, yet missing none of its innate poignancy. So unlike Disney which cheapens the excellent story material with unneeded frills and irrelevant, formulaic add-ons. Not even mentioning the extra doses of cuteness and sentimentality in depicting the dogs' behavior. Yes, dogs are capable of strong emotions and acts of loyalty, but that can be shown without overdone cuteness.
I warmly recommend "Antarctica" to viewers of "Eight Below." It would be difficult to find a better illustration of the difference between Hollywood slop and honest, unadorned storytelling.
God bless the Japanese crew for telling the story in a straightforward, economic manner, yet missing none of its innate poignancy. So unlike Disney which cheapens the excellent story material with unneeded frills and irrelevant, formulaic add-ons. Not even mentioning the extra doses of cuteness and sentimentality in depicting the dogs' behavior. Yes, dogs are capable of strong emotions and acts of loyalty, but that can be shown without overdone cuteness.
I warmly recommend "Antarctica" to viewers of "Eight Below." It would be difficult to find a better illustration of the difference between Hollywood slop and honest, unadorned storytelling.
Can never forget this movie
chip-source28 March 2008
Warning: Spoilers
I was 25 when I first watched this .... kept on crying the whole length of the movie.The guy who made this movie must sure be a hard core dog lover . Man , it was more painful for me as I watched this movie sometime after my doggy died .The way the film was made - something like a documentary is superb , that way you are constantly made aware that it is a real incident . And the idea of putting up the dog's name , age & place of birth to indicate that the dog died , is fantastic..it added more to the sadness . The guilty feeling the two dog trainers show - it's nothing less to real (I know how it feels). The part where two sisters who own Ricky cry - it has been beautifully performed. All dog lovers and especially people who have lost their dogs shouldn't miss this movie for any other one
well worth watching
slward20 November 2001
I accidently stumbled upon this movie and was immediately ensconced in its story line, scenery and cast of characters (primarily the dogs). The subtitles did not distract from the films Japanese dialogue. This semi-documentary style added authenticity to the fact based plot. The human actors may have been the catalyst for this poignant retelling, but the dogs were indeed the glue that held this film together. Given the fact that most of the sets were filmed on location, the dogs performed exceptionally well and held this viewer fast.
The misadventures that the dogs endured during their separation from their owners were deeply touching and powerful. One would have to have ice water flowing through one's veins to be unmoved from this film. Although hard to find, I heartily recommend the movie for age groups of 12 or older. The violence is implied rather than portrayed but none-the-less quite intense.
The misadventures that the dogs endured during their separation from their owners were deeply touching and powerful. One would have to have ice water flowing through one's veins to be unmoved from this film. Although hard to find, I heartily recommend the movie for age groups of 12 or older. The violence is implied rather than portrayed but none-the-less quite intense.
The Brave Ones
dvc51595 September 2013
Antarctica is a white land of pure isolated beauty, and Koreyoshi Kurahara's "Antarctica", perhaps the best animal film I've seen, and also one of the greatest of all adventure films, ensures that thoroughly. The majestic white landscape of nature at its purest set the stage for its story about a group explorers who bond emotionally over a period of time during their journeys, only to find most of themselves stranded there following a hazardous winter storm, where they are forced to fend off threats from both nature itself and its creations.
What makes Kurahara's film intriguing is that 12 of the explorers aren't human. They are snow dogs, mostly trained by their respective owners in Hokkaido, Japan; and two others raised on the frozen continent itself. They get subjected to winter storms, the longest of nights and the unpredictable terrain of Antarctica as they scamper around the barren land looking for food to survive as long as they can. Meanwhile, the two scientists who bond with them (one of them played by the renowned Ken Takakura) relentlessly regret their decision to abandon the dogs that they have come to bond with during their expedition there, even though they know they do not have a choice in the matter. Takakura's character guilts so much that he resorts in apologizing to each previous owner personally. In a heart-wrenching scene, two girls forcibly return a puppy (born to one of the dogs in Antarctica) intended to be an apology gift.
Kurahara's masterstroke is that he makes the dogs the core of this survival tale, and he does so as if the camera were a watchful eye over the lost souls, lingering onwards when tragedy suddenly strikes. It can be argued that the film is a docudrama, with a helpful and non-intrusive narrator filling in the blanks at the right moments. It can also be called a visually spectacular epic as the beautiful, sweeping cinematography swoops over the white land and blue seas, the kind of shots that documentaries can never get. There are many magnificent scenes of startling beauty and skill to be appreciated in the film besides its powerful thematic content.
The humans' presence is brief but serve to highlight mankind's love for its own kind while forgetting nature's other creatures - rendering them expendable. Takakura and the rest of the actors do a great job in conveying the reality of the situation as naturally as real people would. This commentary is briefly explored as Kurahara wastes no time in returning to the dogs' situation.
The cinematographer Akira Shiizuka's camera pulls the audience straight into the film, joining the dogs on their quest for survival amidst the desolate yet overwhelmingly beautiful land. It becomes a character of its own, as per Vangelis' fantastic music score, which chimes perfectly as the heart and soul of the journey, like an angel giving strength and encouragement.
It is common sense that dogs work as a family when grouped and protect who they love. Having owned two dogs, they are both protective of their owners and friends. Though a dog in the movie prefer to be venturing alone, the rest of the survivors band together and search for food, shelter, anything. Absolutely heartbreaking (and for dog lovers, emotionally shattering) scenes occur throughout the ordeal, all of them a result of nature's fury.
This film was remade by Disney and Frank Marshall in 2006 as "Eight Below", with Paul Walker more or less as Takakura's role. Although a noble effort to recapture the essence of the original, it sentimentalizes numerous moments from the original too much that they becomes distractions. I could say the same for other Hollywood animal movies who try to connect to the audience by ways of sentimentality - even very effective ones like "War Horse" and "Free Willy". "Antarctica" doesn't aim for sentimentality - the film was based on a true story, and Kurahara shows its natural strength as it is - which tremendously adds to the emotional impact of the film. I merely find Hollywood animal films touching at best, but this one struck a chord with me and moved me with no expectations.
The film runs lengthily at 2 hours and 23 minutes, yet not a minute goes by that I wasn't enthralled at, not even during the human moments. I can only wonder why Criterion (or Disney even) did not pick the film up for a high-definition Home Video release, as that's the best way to watch it besides cinemas. It's not a kids' movie but it's something kids should watch. I only hope they and their parents will enjoy the experience as much as I loved it.
What makes Kurahara's film intriguing is that 12 of the explorers aren't human. They are snow dogs, mostly trained by their respective owners in Hokkaido, Japan; and two others raised on the frozen continent itself. They get subjected to winter storms, the longest of nights and the unpredictable terrain of Antarctica as they scamper around the barren land looking for food to survive as long as they can. Meanwhile, the two scientists who bond with them (one of them played by the renowned Ken Takakura) relentlessly regret their decision to abandon the dogs that they have come to bond with during their expedition there, even though they know they do not have a choice in the matter. Takakura's character guilts so much that he resorts in apologizing to each previous owner personally. In a heart-wrenching scene, two girls forcibly return a puppy (born to one of the dogs in Antarctica) intended to be an apology gift.
Kurahara's masterstroke is that he makes the dogs the core of this survival tale, and he does so as if the camera were a watchful eye over the lost souls, lingering onwards when tragedy suddenly strikes. It can be argued that the film is a docudrama, with a helpful and non-intrusive narrator filling in the blanks at the right moments. It can also be called a visually spectacular epic as the beautiful, sweeping cinematography swoops over the white land and blue seas, the kind of shots that documentaries can never get. There are many magnificent scenes of startling beauty and skill to be appreciated in the film besides its powerful thematic content.
The humans' presence is brief but serve to highlight mankind's love for its own kind while forgetting nature's other creatures - rendering them expendable. Takakura and the rest of the actors do a great job in conveying the reality of the situation as naturally as real people would. This commentary is briefly explored as Kurahara wastes no time in returning to the dogs' situation.
The cinematographer Akira Shiizuka's camera pulls the audience straight into the film, joining the dogs on their quest for survival amidst the desolate yet overwhelmingly beautiful land. It becomes a character of its own, as per Vangelis' fantastic music score, which chimes perfectly as the heart and soul of the journey, like an angel giving strength and encouragement.
It is common sense that dogs work as a family when grouped and protect who they love. Having owned two dogs, they are both protective of their owners and friends. Though a dog in the movie prefer to be venturing alone, the rest of the survivors band together and search for food, shelter, anything. Absolutely heartbreaking (and for dog lovers, emotionally shattering) scenes occur throughout the ordeal, all of them a result of nature's fury.
This film was remade by Disney and Frank Marshall in 2006 as "Eight Below", with Paul Walker more or less as Takakura's role. Although a noble effort to recapture the essence of the original, it sentimentalizes numerous moments from the original too much that they becomes distractions. I could say the same for other Hollywood animal movies who try to connect to the audience by ways of sentimentality - even very effective ones like "War Horse" and "Free Willy". "Antarctica" doesn't aim for sentimentality - the film was based on a true story, and Kurahara shows its natural strength as it is - which tremendously adds to the emotional impact of the film. I merely find Hollywood animal films touching at best, but this one struck a chord with me and moved me with no expectations.
The film runs lengthily at 2 hours and 23 minutes, yet not a minute goes by that I wasn't enthralled at, not even during the human moments. I can only wonder why Criterion (or Disney even) did not pick the film up for a high-definition Home Video release, as that's the best way to watch it besides cinemas. It's not a kids' movie but it's something kids should watch. I only hope they and their parents will enjoy the experience as much as I loved it.
Great movie!
verovalera19764 November 2018
The story takes place in 1957, in the wild and cold Antartica, where a Japanese expedition is forced to abandon their sled dogs after being told to leave the base due to bad temperatures.
The dogs struggle to survive, hoping the men will come back soon to take them.
The dogs struggle to survive, hoping the men will come back soon to take them.
Vangelis..
se7ennio19 August 2013
I wasn't aware of that Japanese friends' dog culture till this movie.. They respect to all living. I respect Japanese people again. Their hard working, respectful life standards reflects on this spectacular movie, also.. I believe, trainers of those beloved dogs are sincere and they trained them as themselves.. Beautiful views with harsh conditions show us that two unlikely situations goes together.. Acting at that cold place is hard enough and actors are living their roles.. Remember their last expedition journey to 'Botnnuten'.. They made me believe and that's the point, being believable.. Directing, camera angles, special effects (for dog scenes) are well made. Music.. I always listening to Vangelis, as a fan.. 'Antarctica' was one of my favorites.. Till this movie, i didn't know that composed for this Motion Picture but was listening all these years.. Frankly, without Vangelis's music, this movie won't be as effective as it use to be..
One of those, Well-played, well-directed, well-motivated and well-passioned Movies.. Recommended to all cinema lovers..
One of those, Well-played, well-directed, well-motivated and well-passioned Movies.. Recommended to all cinema lovers..
A great retelling of an actual event, and one of the best soundtracks ever
The_Shawshank_Inception18 September 2017
This completely unknown movie, at least to non-Japanese audiences, is an absolute spectacle. And who do we have to thank for that? The cinematographers, editor and director. The events that occur in this film look so realistic, I could barely watch. It actually looks like the whole movie was shot in Antarctica. The performances by the dogs were excellent. But the thing that makes this film great is the one and only VANGELIS!!!!!
The most underrated film composer of all time made this score in the middle of his prime. Two years after his Academy-Award-Winning score for Chariots Of Fire (1981) and a year after his prophetic and futuristic soundtrack for Blade Runner (1982), he chose to compose the music for this 1983 Japanese classic. I first heard the main theme for this film as some background music in Sea World San Antonio. I thought it was so beautiful, I didn't leave until I knew exactly what the song was. As for the rest of the score, it fit the tone of this film perfectly. In my opinion, it is one of the 10 best soundtracks of all time. The only real reason anyone would have seen this film today, like I did, would be because they are fans of Vangelis.
As for the rest of the movie, I thought it did a wonderful job setting up the emotional bond between the dogs and the scientists in the first act. However, the second act constantly switched between the dogs trying to survive and the scientists back home, which felt annoying. I understood why the subplot in Japan was necessary, but it didn't need to be edited quite like that. As for the ending, it was perfect.
8/10, that 40 million dollar budget was worth it. and thank you Vangelis. One of the best foreign films of all time.
The most underrated film composer of all time made this score in the middle of his prime. Two years after his Academy-Award-Winning score for Chariots Of Fire (1981) and a year after his prophetic and futuristic soundtrack for Blade Runner (1982), he chose to compose the music for this 1983 Japanese classic. I first heard the main theme for this film as some background music in Sea World San Antonio. I thought it was so beautiful, I didn't leave until I knew exactly what the song was. As for the rest of the score, it fit the tone of this film perfectly. In my opinion, it is one of the 10 best soundtracks of all time. The only real reason anyone would have seen this film today, like I did, would be because they are fans of Vangelis.
As for the rest of the movie, I thought it did a wonderful job setting up the emotional bond between the dogs and the scientists in the first act. However, the second act constantly switched between the dogs trying to survive and the scientists back home, which felt annoying. I understood why the subplot in Japan was necessary, but it didn't need to be edited quite like that. As for the ending, it was perfect.
8/10, that 40 million dollar budget was worth it. and thank you Vangelis. One of the best foreign films of all time.
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