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The premiere of “Oppenheimer” in Japan, the country deeply scarred by the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, has sparked a range of emotional reactions among Japanese filmgoers. Toshiyuki Mimaki, a survivor of the Hiroshima bombing, expressed his fascination with J. Robert Oppenheimer’s story, noting the absence of a depiction of the Hiroshima bombing scene in the film. As the chairperson of a group representing bomb victims, Mimaki’s sentiments reflect the disappointment of many who expected a more direct portrayal of the horrors inflicted by nuclear weapons.
“Oppenheimer” chooses to focus on the internal conflicts of its titular character rather than directly depicting the devastation caused by the atomic bombings. This approach has drawn criticism from some quarters, with former Hiroshima Mayor Takashi Hiraoka lamenting the film’s failure to sufficiently convey the horror of nuclear weapons from Hiroshima’s perspective. However, some viewers found value in the portrayal of Oppenheimer’s inner turmoil, acknowledging the emotional complexity of the subject matter.
The film’s release in Japan, delayed by over eight months compared to its debut in the U.S., was met with trepidation due to the sensitivity of the subject matter. While some moviegoers praised the film’s portrayal of Oppenheimer’s story as an expression of the evolving American conscience, others questioned its handling of the nuclear issue. The controversy surrounding the “Barbenheimer” marketing campaign further underscored the delicate balance between the serious subject matter and popular culture.
In light of these discussions, there are calls for a Japanese response to Oppenheimer’s story, with filmmakers like Takashi Yamazaki expressing interest in exploring Japan’s perspective on nuclear catastrophe. As the world grapples with the ongoing threat of nuclear weapons, “Oppenheimer” serves as a catalyst for reflections on the legitimacy of their use and the broader implications of warfare and human history.