Watch Hiroshima: Out of the Ashes

Hiroshima: Out of the Ashes is a 1990 historical drama film directed by Peter Werner. The movie tells the story of several individuals in the aftermath of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima during World War II. The plot revolves around three main storylines. The first follows a German Jesuit priest (Max von Sydow) who has been living in Japan for decades. He is one of the few people who survived the bombing and is helping the injured in the aftermath. The second story centers on a group of American prisoners of war, including a rebellious soldier named Woody (Judd Nelson). They are in Hiroshima when the bomb hits and struggle to survive in the chaos that follows. The third storyline focuses on a young Japanese girl named Miyeko (Tamlyn Tomita) who is searching for her family amidst the ruins of the city.

As the story progresses, the characters confront the devastating consequences of the atomic bomb. They witness the pain, loss and destruction that the bomb causes. They also struggle with their own guilt, fear, and trauma.

The film is notable for its unflinching portrayal of the devastation wrought by the atomic bomb. The director used actual footage of the bombing, some of which is graphic and difficult to watch. This, along with the film's realistic portrayal of the characters' suffering, makes for a powerful and emotional viewing experience.

Despite its heavy subject matter, the film also explores themes of hope, resilience, and humanity. The characters come from different backgrounds and cultures, but they all share a common bond in their struggle to survive and rebuild.

One of the standout performances comes from Max von Sydow as Father Siemes. He brings a sense of warmth, compassion, and moral authority to his role, and serves as a voice of reason and comfort for those around him.

Judd Nelson also gives a strong performance as Woody, a cynical young soldier who learns to have a greater appreciation for life and the people around him. Tamlyn Tomita is also effective as Miyeko, a character who serves as an emotional anchor for the audience as she tries to find her family.

The film's cinematography is also noteworthy, with its use of muted colors and stark compositions creating a haunting and otherworldly atmosphere. The score, composed by David Mansfield, is also effective, adding tension and emotion to key scenes.

Overall, Hiroshima: Out of the Ashes is a powerful and harrowing depiction of one of the darkest moments in human history. It showcases the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable tragedy, while never shying away from the horror and devastation of the bombing. The film is a sobering reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of remembering the past.

Hiroshima: Out of the Ashes is a 1990 tv movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 39 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.