Bridging the Division

LOGLINE

Young Japanese-Indonesians, descendants of WWII Japanese soldiers who fought for Indonesian independence, face lingering discrimination and a forgotten history. Mario Kuroiwa, among them, uncovers his grandfather’s complex past, revealing efforts to atone for wartime actions. As they establish a museum to honor their ancestors, they strive to bridge the gap between their heritage and Indonesian society, seeking healing and recognition for their forebears' contributions.

SYNOPSIS

On August 17, 2022, Jakarta buzzes with excitement as young Japanese-Indonesians in their 20s and 30s gather in a small office on the outskirts of the city. Their grandfathers were Japanese soldiers who, after Japan's defeat in WWII, chose to stay and fight in the Indonesian War of Independence against the Netherlands, making Indonesia their home. Despite their contributions, the harsh occupation by the Japanese military remains a painful memory in Indonesian society, and these descendants still face discrimination as "grandchildren of the invaders."

Mario Kuroiwa delves into the enigmatic past of his grandfather, Toru Kuroiwa, a former special police commander in Aceh. Through soldiers' memoirs, Mario discovers Toru's efforts to atone for his wartime actions by joining the Indonesian fight for independence. Yet, after independence, Toru inexplicably returned to Japan, leaving his family behind.

In July 2023, a small history gallery for remaining Japanese soldiers in Indonesia opened in Jakarta’s suburbs, thanks to the efforts of these young Japanese-Indonesians, including Mario. Mario's journey uncovers the complexities of his grandfather's life, revealing a man trapped by his circumstances and the state.

The documentary explores the struggles of these young Japanese-Indonesians as they strive to bridge the gap between their heritage and Indonesian society. By establishing the museum and sharing their grandfathers' stories, they seek healing and recognition, aiming to reconcile the past and create a more inclusive future.

Director: Haruko KONISHI
Executive Producer: Ken-ichi IMAMURA (Studio IMAKEN / Japan)
Production status: Production
Duration: 52' and 90'
Completion (55'): October, 2024
Completion (80'): May, 2025
Budget: $150,000 (60% secured by NHK and self-investment)

Trailer: https://vimeo.com/747927554
PW: YWP