The Burmese Harp 4K Blu-ray Releases August 5 from Criterion
Criterion Collection presents Kon Ichikawa's The Burmese Harp in a new 4K restoration with special features.
The Burmese Harp (1956), directed by Kon Ichikawa, arrives on 4K Blu-ray as part of the Criterion Collection's August releases, scheduled for August 5, 2025. This black-and-white film runs 116 minutes with a 1.37:1 aspect ratio and features Japanese and Burmese languages with English subtitles. It tells the story of an Imperial Japanese Army regiment surrendering in Burma at the end of World War II. The narrative follows a private believed dead who disguises himself as a Buddhist monk, exploring themes of spiritual enlightenment amid war’s devastation.
This edition includes a new 4K digital restoration with an uncompressed monaural soundtrack. The 4K UHD set consists of one UHD disc and one Blu-ray containing special features. Among these are interviews with director Kon Ichikawa and actor Rentaro Mikuni, plus the original theatrical trailer. The package also features a new English subtitle translation, alongside an essay by critic and historian Tony Rayns.
Release Contents:
- New 4K digital restoration: High-quality restoration with uncompressed monaural audio
- Interviews with director Kon Ichikawa and actor Rentaro Mikuni: In-depth discussions about the film
- Trailer: Original promotional material
- New English subtitle translation: Enhanced accessibility
- Essay by Tony Rayns: Critical and historical overview
Release Date: August 5, 2025
Source: Blu-ray.comWhy So Blu?