Fires on the Plain 4K Blu-ray from Criterion Arrives August 5

Fires on the Plain, directed by Kon Ichikawa, arrives on 4K Blu-ray from The Criterion Collection on August 5, 2025. This release presents a new 4K restoration of the film, capturing the grim realities faced by Japanese soldiers during World War II as they navigate the harsh Philippine landscape.

The film follows Private Tamura, a soldier stricken with tuberculosis and abandoned by the Imperial Army. As he traverses an unfamiliar terrain, the story explores the physical and psychological decline experienced by desperate men amid war's chaos. The title stands as a significant work in Japanese cinema and reflects Ichikawa’s versatile filmmaking.

This two-disc combo pack features an uncompressed soundtrack and a new English subtitle translation. Included are valuable special features such as an introduction by film scholar Donald Richie and a program featuring interviews with director Kon Ichikawa and actor Mickey Curtis. Additionally, the package contains an essay by critic Chuck Stephens, providing further context to the film’s impact and artistry.

This release comes under The Criterion Collection label, known for its dedication to film preservation and presentation. Fans of 4K restorations will appreciate the meticulous care undertaken for this edition, which enhances the film’s visual and audio fidelity.

Release Date: August 5, 2025.