Japan’s War – In Colour

Japan’s War – In Colour is a documentary created in 2005, narrated by Brian Cox. This video offers a realistic glimpse into the mind and spirit of the Japanese people approaching, during, and after World War II.

WWII is an extraordinarily gruesome yet fascinating time in human history. Each culture involved had such a passionate determination to fight and iron will to succeed. A video such as this one, which offers insight into the Japanese side of things, could only be possible now, after time has healed certain global wounds. Even still, this is a subject that must be handled with the utmost care and balance.

The first thing that stood out to me about this documentary is the rare footage the creator’s obtained. Throughout the 90+ minute run time, astounding and uncensored footage of battles can be witnessed. Pearl Harbor, Midway, Okinawa, Hiroshima, etc. are all represented by short bits of film gathered meticulously by the film crew; and, as the title indicates, everything is in color.

A lot of the footage shown in Japan’s War has never before been aired, and some of it was thought not to exist. Since no color footage of Japan prior to 1945 had been seen, the short snippets from these battlefield cameras is a rare thing indeed.

One important note about this film is that it is not for the weak of heart. There is no censorship when it comes to shootings, bombings, or injuries. The view of WWII presented here is untampered…which brings me to my next important point – the presentation of political and philosophical beliefs is very well handled. This is a film that could have easily swayed toward showing Japan as a hapless victim of western tyranny, or on the other hand, pandered itself out as pro-American propaganda. Japan’s War manages to escape both of these traps and offers frank discussion of the Emperor’s ambitions, the militaristic nature of Japan, and the role American troops played as they entered the war.

One of my favorite things about this documentary, besides the footage, is the insight into the Japanese psyche presented by way of journals. Diaries and thoughts from Japanese soldiers, sergeants, and civilians are read throughout the film and give us a chance to put our finger on the pulse of Japan as the war was occurring.

If you are a person who studies martial arts and history seriously, especially that of the Japanese Islands, this documentary is certainly worth your consideration.

Ikigai108 gives Japan’s War – In Colour…