Mixed Reactions and High Emotions as ‘Oppenheimer’ Premieres in Japan

### Japanese Filmgoers React to “Oppenheimer” Premiere
Japanese filmgoers had mixed and emotional reactions to the premiere of “Oppenheimer” in Japan, a film that explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the scientist behind the atomic bomb.

### Emotional Responses from Survivors
Toshiyuki Mimaki, a survivor of the Hiroshima bombing, expressed his fascination with Oppenheimer’s story but also questioned Japan’s decision to attack Pearl Harbor. Mimaki, who leads a group of bomb victims, was surprised that the movie did not directly depict the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

### Sensitivity of the Subject Matter
The release of “Oppenheimer” in Japan was met with trepidation due to the sensitivity of the subject matter. Former Hiroshima Mayor Takashi Hiraoka criticized the film for not adequately depicting the horror of nuclear weapons from Hiroshima’s standpoint.

### Diverse Reactions from Moviegoers
While some moviegoers praised the film for its portrayal of Oppenheimer’s internal conflicts, others found it lacking in its depiction of the true horror of nuclear weapons. The film’s release sparked discussions about the historical controversy surrounding the use of atomic bombs.

### Calls for Reflection and Response
Experts and filmmakers in Japan have suggested that the country needs to offer its own response to the story of Oppenheimer. Some believe that addressing the legitimacy of nuclear weapons and reflecting on Japan’s wartime atrocities is crucial in the face of growing nuclear threats worldwide.

### Conclusion
The premiere of “Oppenheimer” in Japan has sparked important conversations about the use of nuclear weapons, war atrocities, and the need for reflection and response. The film’s exploration of Oppenheimer’s story has prompted calls for Japan to offer its own perspective on this historical chapter.