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Clip description
An amnesia-afflicted Australian soldier, Private Jimmy Fenton (John Polson), has finally remembered what happened prior to his brother’s death in the camp. He retells the story in court. His evidence is illustrated by the film’s first flashback, showing Captain Ikeuchi (Tetsu Watanabe) blowing a whistle to stop and start the beating of allied soldiers.
Curator’s notes
This marks a dramatic moment in the narrative. Private Fenton is the first witness for the prosecution who can give a clear picture of the conditions leading to some of the Australian deaths.
This scene suddenly opens out a drama that until now has been almost entirely confined to the military compound housing the court room. The filmmakers give viewers a clear taste of the Japanese brutality that until now they have only been able to imagine. Polson’s persuasive acting adds to the scene’s power.
