Japan's Longest Day
7.2/10
Rating
157 min
Runtime
1967
Release Year
Kihachi Okamoto
Director
Cast
Seiji Miyaguchi, Rokkō Toura, Chishū Ryū, So Yamamura, Toshirō Mifune
Quick Synopsis
After the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II, Japan faces a critical decision as the Allied forces demand unconditional surrender. Within the Japanese government and military, there is a sharp conflict: Minister of the Army Anami and other military leaders advocate continuing the fight, even if it means the death of every Japanese citizen. Meanwhile, Emperor Hirohito, along with his civilian ministers, pushes for a peaceful surrender to end the war. As some military officers plan a coup to overthrow the Emperor's government, Anami is forced to choose between his personal wishes and his loyalty to the Emperor and the nation's future.
Detailed Synopsis of Japan's Longest Day
Following the detonation of the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the Japanese military and the government clash over the demand from the Allies for unconditional surrender. Minister of the Army Anami leads the military officers who propose to fight on, even to the death of every Japanese citizen. Emperor Hirohito, however, joins with his ministers in asking the unthinkable, the peaceful surrender of Japan. When the military plots a coup to overthrow the Emperor's civilian government, Anami must face the choice between his desires and loyalty to his Emperor.
