Watch Beyond Barbed Wire

Beyond Barbed Wire is a documentary-style film released in 1997 that explores the experiences of Japanese Americans during World War II. The film focuses on the stories of those who were forced to live in internment camps, as well as those who served in the military. The film begins by providing historical context for the internment of Japanese Americans. It explains how, following the attack on Pearl Harbor, President Roosevelt signed an executive order authorizing the relocation and internment of Japanese Americans, citing fears that they may be aiding the enemy. The film touches on the racism and prejudice that existed at the time, which played a significant role in the decision to intern Japanese Americans.

The film then delves into the stories of several individuals who lived through the internment camps. It features interviews with former internees, who recount their experiences of being forcibly removed from their homes and transported to remote desert locations. The film shows footage of the camps themselves, giving viewers a glimpse of what life was like inside the barbed wire fences.

One of the most prominent figures in the film is Pat Morita, who had himself been interned as a child during World War II. Morita shares his own experiences of being taken from his home in California and sent to an internment camp in Arizona. He talks about the shame and confusion he felt at being treated as an enemy even though he was an American citizen.

Through the stories of Morita and others, the film shows the struggles that Japanese Americans faced during and after the war. It highlights the impact that internment had on families and communities, as well as the difficulty of readjusting to life after being released from the camps.

The film also explores the experiences of Japanese Americans who served in the military during the war. Despite being labeled potential threats to national security, many Japanese Americans volunteered to fight for their country. The film features interviews with veterans who share their stories of serving in combat while their families were interned back home.

Beyond Barbed Wire is a moving and poignant film that sheds light on a dark chapter in American history. Through the personal stories of those who lived through it, the film gives viewers a greater understanding of the human cost of internment and the resilience of Japanese Americans in the face of discrimination and adversity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and learning from past injustices, so that we can strive to build a more just and inclusive society.

Beyond Barbed Wire is a 1997 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.2.