DVD guide: Flags of Our Fathers and Letters from Iwo Jima

Clint Eastwood's two movies about the battle of Iwo Jima, now on DVD, show both sides of the story.

Flags of Our Fathers/Letters from Iwo Jima – 5-Disc Commemorative Edition (R)

No matter how much you think you know about war, and especially the war fought by what has been dubbed "the greatest generation," there are always films that will tell you more – not just about battle lore, but the highs and lows of the human spirit. Clint Eastwood's masterly one-two knockout perspectives on one of the deadliest battles of the Pacific penetrate American and Japanese soldiers' hearts and minds as they struggle to grasp their roles, even as they try to stay alive. The two special editions are packed with compelling extras, and the bonus fifth disc nicely rounds out the history lesson with an A&E documentary about the real heroes of Iwo Jima. Grade: A