It's a big slap to wake up prejudice Aldo Ray to the unjustified hatred he feels towards the Japanese people in the post World War II rebuilding and American occupation. He's initially seen being more than just rude when he goes to a Tokyo nightclub with pals Dick York and Chuck Conners and storms out which results in a near riot when he knocks over a manned taxi and acts indignant. Disciplinary measures from his commanding officer (Philip Carey) keeps him there, and he's soon involved in aiding the pretty Japanese interpreter Mitsuko Kimura in finding funds to aide a Japanese orphanage.
Certainly, if I were to look into the eyes with Chiyaki, the irresistible Japanese orphan, any hate I had would complete disappear. The sweet Kimura is a winning heroine who makes it clear in a gentle way that she is saving her kisses for the man who will marry her, basically keeping the door open for the possibility of a serious romance. Kimura's father meets Ray and while polite, gently warns his daughter of the hurt she's setting herself up for. This is a key scene that defines the fear of older generations fearing changes in tradition even if they know that they can't stop things from changing.
Yes, this is a bit sappy in spots but it's difficult not to be drawn into the story, especially discovering that it's based on a true story, having read the review of the grandchild of Ray and Kimura's real life counterparts. For a country like Japan to change in culture so much after a horrendous war and to adapt to certain American trends and pastimes shows an offer of peace, not from the government, but by the people which is where it counts.
Ray's character doesn't change overnight, and the invasion by Korea brings on more opportunities for his racism to spread. This may be a Hollywood retelling of the truth, but it is thrilling to see it unfold and watch the character of O'Reilly adapt rather than change and be open to admitting that he's been wrong. It's a story about hope and atonement, strong themes that make any film stick in the viewer's mind long after it's over.
Certainly, if I were to look into the eyes with Chiyaki, the irresistible Japanese orphan, any hate I had would complete disappear. The sweet Kimura is a winning heroine who makes it clear in a gentle way that she is saving her kisses for the man who will marry her, basically keeping the door open for the possibility of a serious romance. Kimura's father meets Ray and while polite, gently warns his daughter of the hurt she's setting herself up for. This is a key scene that defines the fear of older generations fearing changes in tradition even if they know that they can't stop things from changing.
Yes, this is a bit sappy in spots but it's difficult not to be drawn into the story, especially discovering that it's based on a true story, having read the review of the grandchild of Ray and Kimura's real life counterparts. For a country like Japan to change in culture so much after a horrendous war and to adapt to certain American trends and pastimes shows an offer of peace, not from the government, but by the people which is where it counts.
Ray's character doesn't change overnight, and the invasion by Korea brings on more opportunities for his racism to spread. This may be a Hollywood retelling of the truth, but it is thrilling to see it unfold and watch the character of O'Reilly adapt rather than change and be open to admitting that he's been wrong. It's a story about hope and atonement, strong themes that make any film stick in the viewer's mind long after it's over.