Semi-autobiographical novel Grave of the Fireflies (1967)
Novelist Nosaka Akiyuki's (1930-2015) memories of death of younger sister
Anime version (1988)
Director Takahata Isao's (1935-2018) visual and aural memories of wartime Japan
Annual broadcast on “End of War Day,” August 15
Popular memories of war
What is the emotional impact of the film?
How is the war depicted in the film?
Historical accuracy: How realistic is the film based on your reading of Yamshita's Daily Life in Wartime Japan?
Does the animation give you a feel for the physical surroundings of Japan in terms of architecture, clothing, and terrain?
Historical interpretation: What was Takahata’s purpose in making the film?
Where does the film seem to pin the blame for the plight of the kids: Japanese society, the Japanese government, the American firebombing, or subsequent occupation?
Why are the children abandoned by society?
Why do you think a film with this message is shown on Japanese television every August 15th?