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You Can't Ask That
Documentary
Paper City (2021)
8 / 10
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Paper City
2021
80mins
8 / 10
8 / 10
Just after midnight on 10 March 1945, the US launched an air-based attack on eastern Tokyo; continuing until morning, the raid left more than 100,000 people dead and a quarter of the city eradicated. Unlike their loved ones, Hiroshi Hoshino, Michiko Kiyooka and Minoru Tsukiyama managed to emerge from the bombings. Now in their twilight years, they wish for nothing more than recognition and reparations for those who, like them, had been indelibly harmed by the war – but the Japanese government and even their fellow citizens seem disinclined to acknowledge the past.
Paper City: Cast & Crews
Directors
Adrian Francis
Top Cast
Willow Shields, Lance Henriksen, Jared Abrahamson, Jason C. Miller, Kristen Hager
Movie Trailers
What Our Critics Think
Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.
4/5
Paper City emerges as a haunting portrayal of survival in the face of overwhelming loss. Directed by Adrian Francis, the film captures the silent agony of three survivors of the 1945 Tokyo bombings, each rendered with depth and authenticity. The narrative unfolds slowly, allowing viewers to engage w ... Show more >>
3/5
Paper City is a film that aims high but sometimes stumbles in execution. It tries to tackle the heavy burden of memory and loss through the lives of three survivors from the Tokyo bombings. While the intent is noble, the pacing can drag, leaving moments feeling prolonged. The performances are heartf ... Show more >>
How Viewers Describe This Film
Common themes and sentiments
Streaming Charts
The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.
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Got a question about Paper City?
Yes, Paper City is worth watching for its poignant exploration of the aftermath of war and its impact on individual lives. The performances are compelling, particularly from the lead actors who portray the emotional weight of their characters’ experiences. The film invites viewers to reflect on historical events that are often overlooked.
Paper City focuses on the lives of three survivors of the 1945 Tokyo air raids, exploring their struggles for recognition and reparations in their twilight years. It addresses themes of memory, trauma, and the collective silence surrounding the past, making it a significant commentary on how societies remember their history.
Paper City is not particularly suitable for children due to its mature themes and depictions of war-related trauma. The film deals with heavy subject matter that may be challenging for younger audiences to understand.
In the end, Paper City leaves viewers with a sense of unresolved grief as the main characters continue to seek recognition for their suffering. The film closes on a reflective note, highlighting the ongoing struggle for acknowledgment and the impact of the past on the present. (Spoiler Alert)
You can watch Paper City through various streaming platforms available in Australia. Check local services like Stan or Amazon Prime Video for availability.
As of now, there is no sequel to Paper City. The film stands alone in its narrative, focusing on the specific historical context and character arcs presented.
Yes, Paper City is inspired by true events surrounding the devastating air raids on Tokyo during World War II. The personal stories of the characters reflect the real experiences of survivors.
Films similar to Paper City include Grave of the Fireflies, The Wind Rises, and Letters from Iwo Jima. These films also explore the effects of war on individuals and communities, blending historical context with personal narratives.