A movie with absolute strengths, in directing and filming, but also some flaws in the script (a bit superfluous and cheesy) though that certainly tries to get good things across too. An enjoyable watch and good movie. Almost 4*, say 3.7*
Shimada, a former Self-Defense Force member, suffers from severe PTSD following the loss of a comrade in a firefight in war-torn South Sudan, a tragedy covered up by the government. Shining a light into Shimada's solitary life in illegal arms manufacturing is a job as an apprentice at a traditional Japanese fireworks factory. There he begins crafting fireworks alongside the master artisan and fellow craftsmen who embrace fireworks that illuminate people's peaceful lives. Yet, parallel to Shimada's journey, his comrades-in-arms with unresolved feelings team up on radical acts to expose the government's cover-up, escalating tensions and pulling Shimada back into the darkness he thought he'd left behind.
Where to watch
No showtimes for Flames of a Flower in Amsterdam today.
Flames of a Flower showtimes, refreshed every morning
Pick your cinema, get a nudge before it leaves screens.
Cast & crew
6What people say
Just a moment...Enable JavaScript and cookies to continue
Rapprochement très intéressant fait par le réal entre les feux d’artifices et la guerre au Soudan (avec les tirs), avec notamment une critique sur le gouvernement japonais par rapport aux décès des soldats effacés par la politique.La musique extra diégetique est vraiment dingue et la scène de fin est très émouvante.Malgré un manque de budget qui se remarque, le film démontre des qualités cinématographiques plutôt remarquables.
Common questions
What is Flames of a Flower about?+
It follows a former Self-Defense Force member suffering from PTSD who finds temporary solace working at a traditional Japanese fireworks factory while his former comrades plot radical actions to expose a government cover-up.
Who directed Flames of a Flower?+
Flames of a Flower was directed by Oudai Kojima in 2025.
