Pictures from a Hiroshima Schoolyard 2012
Distributed by The Video Project, PO Box 411376, San Francisco, CA 94141-1376; 800-475-2638
Produced by Shzumi Shigeto Manale
Directed by Bryan Reichhardt
DVD , color, 58 min.
Middle School - General Adult
Art, Artists, Children, Japan, World War II, Nuclear Weapons, Documentaries
Date Entered: 04/19/2016
Reviewed by Susan J. Martin, Acquisitions Librarian, Texas Woman’s UniversityPictures from a Hiroshima Schoolyard is a sweet documentary that explores an act of kindness from American school children to their Japanese counterparts, and the simple, joyful gift given in thanks during the period after the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.
The film does have some minor flaws which are not too distracting. It is overly long, and becomes repetitive toward the end. However, its core subject matter, the series of drawings created by the children at Honkawa Elementary School in Hiroshima shines through. The drawings, a thank you, were sent to the All Souls Church School in Washington, D.C. in return for the gift of school supplies and small toys. The restored drawings made simply of paper, crayon, and pencil are colorful scenes of life, hope and peace.
We meet six of the hibakusha child-artists who are now entering their senior years, and their stories are filled with memories of the bombing, aftermath, and loss of family and friends. This is where the story captures our hearts; their moods are not sad, but joyful and excited about seeing their drawings again after so many years.
The film is recommended for audiences ranging from middle school through general adults. It would complement discussions and teachings on World War II, atomic weapons, peace, morality, and art.