Hell in the Pacific (First Viewing) - 7/10 (Original Ending); 7.5/10 (Alternative Ending)
An American pilot is shot down over the Pacific and stranded in a remote island during World War II where he unexpectedly meets a staunch and hostile Japanese Naval Officer. Initially waging their own private wars, the two men eventually must fight against all odds to survive and flee the island.
Hell in the Pacific is a compelling allegory of human nature when faced with the fight for survival and conflicted with idealism. This could have been a powerful anti-war movie if the ending had not been so abrupt and unsatisfying. Fortunately, viewers could still watch the better alternate ending.
Genre: Adventure, War, Drama
Worth watching? Yes, especially if you like the excellent Cast Away (2000) which must have been inspired by this 1969 film. The characters in both the films are stranded in an island in the Pacific
Worth re-watching? Yes, if you are a fan of Lee Marvin or Toshiro Mifune.
Bottom-line? Recommended for audience who like watching something unique. Not for mainstream viewers due to prolonged scenes with minimal dialogue and abrupt ending.