Watch Hiroshima: BBC History of World War II

The movie Hiroshima: BBC History of World War II is a gripping and informative documentary that explores the events leading up to the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Japan by the United States during World War II. Narrated by award-winning actor John Hurt, the film features interviews with survivors and witnesses of the devastation, including Shuntaro Hida, a doctor who treated victims immediately following the attack, and George Elsey, a military aide to President Truman.

The documentary sets the stage for the fateful decision to drop the bomb, beginning with the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and the subsequent United States entry into the war. Through expert analysis and historical footage, viewers gain insight into the strategic and political motivations behind the use of atomic weaponry, as well as the moral and ethical debates that continue to surround the decision to this day.

As the film delves into the details of the bombing itself, it examines the immediate and long-term effects on the city of Hiroshima and its inhabitants. Through firsthand accounts and archival footage, viewers witness the horror and destruction wrought by the bomb, as well as the resilience and courage of the survivors who somehow managed to rebuild their lives in the aftermath.

The documentary also explores the aftermath of the bombing, including the surrender of Japan and the eventual formation of the United Nations. It touches on the future of nuclear weapons and the ongoing efforts to prevent their use, highlighting the importance of understanding the lessons of Hiroshima and the true cost of war.

Overall, Hiroshima: BBC History of World War II is a powerful and thought-provoking film that offers a comprehensive look at one of the most significant events of the 20th century. Its combination of expert analysis, firsthand accounts, and historical footage provides a vivid and unforgettable portrait of the human toll of war and the imperative to learn from our past mistakes.