Message From Hiroshima (2015)

Narrated by the captivating voice of George Takei, "Message From Hiroshima" is a poignant exploration of a city and culture lost to the merciless advance of war. The film delves into Hiroshima's vibrant past, before the ominous glow of the world's first atomic bomb turned day into night, erasing the city's beating heart in an instant. In the heart of modern Hiroshima, where the Hon and Motoyasu Rivers intertwine, the Peace Memorial Park stands as a solemn reminder of the Nakajima district that once thrived here. This bustling district was the lifeblood of Hiroshima, housing countless lives and businesses. However, the detonation of the atomic bomb 2,000 feet above the city centre on August 6, 1945, reduced it all to ashes. Seventy years later, director Masaaki Tanabe embarks on a profound journey to revive the memory of the city's vanished past. Through his lens, the viewer is taken on a heart-wrenching voyage, witnessing the testimonials of hibakusha (survivors) and former residents. Their tales of survival and resilience, interwoven with computer-generated recreations of once-bustling restaurants, shoe stores, cinemas, and the renowned Industrial Promotion Hall, bring to life the ghost of a bygone era. "Message From Hiroshima" is not just a recounting of devastation; it is a testament to human spirit's unyielding resilience. It’s an emotional odyssey through the echoes of a once-great city, told through the voices of those who loved it, lost it, and lived to remember it. This film is not just about the pain of the past, but also about the enduring love for a city that continues to live in the hearts of its people.

Message From Hiroshima is a documentary movie featuring George Takei.

Message From Hiroshima is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Cineverse and Kanopy and it's also available on AsianCrush.

It is also possible to buy Message From Hiroshima on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Vudu and YouTube.