Original subtitles

The world is at war.

We are in the year 1939.

In Asia and Europe, the fighting fronts move quickly, threatening the entire world.

The war between Japan and China continues, unstoppable.

The Axis powers, Germany and ltaly, seek their own gains through war.

The wars in Asia and Europe threathens confrontation in the Pacific.

Everything depends on diplomatic negotiations.

The Japanese Army wants to establish a military alliance with Germany and Italy.

But in Japan, there are those who resist war, struggling to stay out of an alliance with the Axis.

Admiral Yamamto

Migata Prefecture - Kachikawa

Where are you from? Echigo, right?

Yeah, how'd you know?

Easy. I noticed the accent.

I'm visiting the graves of my family.

Really?

You're a good boatman.

How would you know?

Because I am a sailor too.

Seriously?

Been doing this long?

Yep, I've been a boatman since my first child was born 15 years ago.

You have a lot to look forward to.

Unfortunately, this will probably be the last year I can do this.

Why do you say that?

The war is becoming increasingly violent .

Do not worry about that.

Next year you will still be sailing and your children too.

We shall see.

Why? Don't you trust your own skills?

Who says I don't.

Well then let's make a bet.

What kind?

I'll stand on my hands. If I reach the shore safely then I'll pay you three times your price...

However, if I fall into the water...

You do not pay.

Exactly.

- You are a good boatman. - And you are very brave.

- You win. - No, victory is yours.

- Come on, take it - No, I won't.

- That was the bet. - No.

- I insist. - I said 'No'.

- Take it . - Never.

I'm Sergeant Eto, sir.

Corporal Suzuki, sir.

You are Isoruku Yamamoto?

To what do I owe the honor of your visit? Have I done something wrong?

We have orders to protect you, sir.

According to reports, there are some right-wing groups planning to assassinate you.

Look at this.

I got in this city of Nagaoka.

Read it to me.

Declaration: In this time of national crisis, an alliance with the Axis is essential.

You have clearly expressed on several occasions misgivings about Japan's participation

in any war or with any military alliance with Germany and Italy.

We consider you an enemy of the Emperor and a traitor.

Consequently, we must to sacrifice you, Isoroku Yamamoto, on behalf of His Majesty.

April 3, 1939 - The Sacred War Union To Deputy Minister of the Navy lsoroku Yamamoto.

Do you agree with what this says?

You should not worry about it.

Why don't you join me tonight? We'll go for a drink with some old friends of mine.

We have to go.

Come. They have some very pretty Geishas.

Tonight I have brought a few friends with me from Tokyo.

Are you in the Navy?

Yes.

Good, I love Navy officers because they are so cultured. Army officers are pigs.

Be careful, this man belongs to the Army.

God, I really screwed up.

Yamamoto, I have a question. The Japanese Navy is the best in the world, isn't it?

Well, I 'm not sure...

Our soldiers have the Japanese spirit.

Yes, but that does not mean that much. The U.S. Army has the Yankee spirit.

And the English army has the spirit of John Bull.

Both are very well prepared armies ... True?

Relax and drink some.

HOMETOWN OF YAMAMOTO - NAGAOKA

Navy Ministry

- Wait.

Well well, Colonel Tsuji.

We would like to talk to you.

- Right now I have a meeting. - It will only take a moment.

Would you mind waiting in my office?

Cadet Kimura. I have brought you a letter from the Superintendent of the Military Academy.

Anything else?

Thanks to you, I managed to get into the Naval Academy. Without you, I would have never been admitted.

I wanted to thank you, sir.

- I'm sorry but I do not remember you. - I lost my parents when I was little.

My older sister supported me. But when I tried to enter the Academy, I did not have enough ...

... money for tuition. They never would have admitted such a poor student like me ...

... if you had not intervened, sir.

Yes, I remember now. So that was you?

Thank you again, sir .

No matter if you are poor or rich...

... you must become a good officer .

What are you studying?

I'm training as a pilot for the naval air forces.

Good, the war may begin soon. Take advantage of your training.

Sir, we request the Navy approve of an alliance with the Axis powers.

The Army is out of patience. We can wait no longer.

It is possible that the rightists are plotting a coup.

We must not lose the people's trust, have the country descind into chaos...

... or have a revolution.

Revolutions do not ruin a country. Wars do.

Manchuria is our lifeline.

We must remove the Soviet threat from the north.

The Russians have already attacked us there, sir.

The best way to prevent more attacks is through an alliance with Germany.

I disagree.

Why? Are you worried about the reaction of the Americans and the British?

We must stop these attacks once and for all! We must act!

What do you think, sir?

The Navy will not drag Japan into a war.

Then the Army will act alone.

The Army can cross the ocean?

Sir, I will be leaving for Germany soon.

What you should do is go to the United States.

What do you mean?

Once there, go look at their factories. There are dozens ... ...hundreds more than in Japan.

Sir, we can not wait for Germany to start a war.

Why do you have such appreciation for Germany?

Colonel Tsuji, your presence is required immediately!

Why? What happened?

Something serious!

AUGUST 23, 1939

'Germany signs non-agression pact with Russia'

'Crisis in the Cabinet'

Minister, I hope now that the the Army will reconsider its decision.

We should take advantage of the situation. This is a good time to reach a peace treaty with China ...

... and stop the war in Asia.

That will a task for our successors.

I'm afraid our jobs here are over now.

You can't say that we have aroused much sympathy here.

I have been very concerned about you being killed in a terrorist attack.

Anyway, I'm glad we're not staying here.

Me too. Very glad.

You must be tired, It has been very hard.

The same for you, Minister.

Yes ... fortunately, I have released from all my duties.

But I cannot imagine what awaits you.

Yes, I do not know if I deserve this position.

Commander-in-chief of the Combined Fleet is perfect for you.

I appreciate that.

No matter who the Navy Minister and Deputy Minister are ...

... the position of the Navy will not change.

Command the fleet as you see fit.

I will.

BATTLESHIP NAGATO

Under the command of Admiral Yamamoto,

the Combined Fleet trains for war.

' Patient peace before victorious war. '

I have returned.

How are things back on land?

They long to hear voices asking for an alliance.

They won't give up easily.

The Blitzkrieg waged by Germany has left them dazzled.

I am not worried since Admiral Yonai is now Prime Minister.

There are rumors of a conspiracy to undermine his cabinet.

Why?

They'll stop at nothing to get what they want: an alliance with the Axis powers.

You, as Army Minister, seem to tolerate any action directed against the Cabinet... Explain yourself.

You are a military man. I too am a military man.

Won't you just cut to the chase and talk sincerely?

RESIGNATION

You want to resign?

I understand. Who will be your successor?

I must know who I will be dealing with.

I have no successor.

No successor? Then why resign?

In view of the current situation, the Army has decided that all cooperation with the Navy ...

- What? - ... must stop.

- You're asking me to resign? - No, not me personally.

'Yonai cabinet dismissed'

'Prince Konoye takes over'

July 15, 1940.

NAVY MINISTRY

Oikawa, the new Minister of the Imperial Navy, wanted a reconciliation with the Army.

On July 17, 1940 he convened a meeting with senior naval officers including Admiral Yamamoto.

If we continue to oppose an alliance with the Axis ...

... we will see the current cabinet dismissed as well.

That would make things even worse. It could even lead to anarchy.

We must consider the matter, gentlemen. If not, we must ask ourselves ....

... what will happen to the Imperial Navy.

So I am in favor of giving our consent to this alliance.

Mr. Minister.

I want to make it clear that I have no intention to oppose this decision.

I just want to ask you one thing.

As you know, Japan is importing raw materials from the Americans and the British.

Oil, steel, tin and rubber among other things.

If we join the Axis powers, it is to be expected that these supples will be cut off.

Do you see any alternative outcome?

Minister, answer me, please.

I understand your fears, Admiral, but this is a staff decision.

So I hope that you will understand and respect it.

You have not answered my question. What will happen to our supply of raw materials?

As I said, this decision is inevitable.

So, you have no answer?

Gentlemen, please. I urge you to approve the alliance.

Please.

We have no choice.

'Alliance with Axis approved'

When the pact was signed September 27, 1940, Japan moved closer to war.

I'm beaten, right?

Where do I sign the surrender?

I moved.

Want to play again?

- I will not beg for mercy. - Let's play again.

I'd better give up.

You won a lot of games in a row, Fuji.

I'm surprised. The Admiral is making very basic mistakes.

That's because he can't concentrate.

Haven't you noticed?

Now that you mention it ...

... in today's meeting he didn't speak once.

Sooner or later, we will end up in a war with the United States.

The Admiral is against war. It's to be expected that he is preoccupied with these dilemnas.

KAGOSHIMA BAY

- Nogami, you must fly lower. - Under six hundred feet?

- We must impress them. - How low?

- So low you can touch the buoy. - The buoy?

Yes, now!

1200 feet ...1000

600 feet. Continue diving ...

Look out! Pull up!

- Pilot! - Sir!

- How much flying time do you have? - 400 hours!

Do not try anything like that again until you have 1000 hours!

Didn't you realize you were about to crash? Did you have any idea? Answer me!

No.

You nearly killed the squadron commander!

- The squadron commander? - Go and apologize to him. Now!

Yes, sir!

Lieutenant Kimura.

What is it?

I froze during a dive and put myself and you in danger, sir.

I have come to apologize. Sorry.

Don't worry. As long as we all work together, we can do anything. Don't apologize for being agressive.

- Yes - You're Kimura!

Sawada!

I didn't expect to find you here! Things going well?

- I see that you two already know each other. - Yes, sir. We're classmates.

Really? Sit down.

- You've got guts, kid. - What has Kimura done this time?

He nearly collided with me while flying.

Sorry.

I'm sure you will become a fine pilot. Let's toast to your success.

I do not quite understand, sir, What is the purpose for all this special training?

I have no idea.

We're flying at an altitude of 50 feet approaching ships ...

... which are motionless.

They're planning to attack a port. The only one I can think of with these features is ...

... Pearl Harbor.

What? Pearl Harbor??

- That's crazy!

NAVY GENERAL HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF STRATEGY

Impossible! We can not afford to sacrifice all our carriers on such a risky mission.

Six carriers are essential for the attack.

Admiral Yamamoto insists.

It's certainly a very risky attack. It could be a catastrophe for the Japanese Navy.

It just seems like sheer madness.

Why is Admiral Yamamoto in such a hurry to start this war?

- Excuse me but that's not true. - How?

Let me explain on behalf of the Admiral.

Our goal is to avoid war with the United States at all costs. But there are several circumstances ...

.... which seem to make it inevitable.

I doubt that the government can stop this, it's too late.

If we enter this war, there is only one way that Japan can emerge victorious:

Destroy the American Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor. Unless we attack Pearl Harbor we will not be able to ...

... win this war. The Admiral said that if the Army did not accept his plan, the Imperial Navy ...

... can not take any responsibility for the outcome of the war.

Really? Yamamoto said that?

He did!

I give you my word of honor that I have come to convince you for the sake of us all.

Well ... all right.

- But sir! - Stop! Yamamoto is a man of his word.

We can trust him.

Yes.

Also ...

What now?

The Admiral asks to assume command of the attack. If you give permission, ...

... he will command the fleet from the Nagato.

I can not deny him that.

He told me to say one last thing, sir.

You ask him to start a war ...

... but his greatest desire is to not have to participate in any war.

16 JUNE 1941.

'RUSSIA JOINS THE WAR IN EUROPE'

I recognize that the situation now has become complicated in the worst imaginable way.

It is unfortunate that we face such a fate, but I no longer feel any guilt.

I am in a situation where I must act against my principles.

It's really odd. This must be fate.

Pearl Harbor is only forty feet deep.

What are our chances if we attack with torpedoes?

BATTLESHIP NAGATO

Genda, you have the floor.

We've been practicing with new torpedos and tactics ...

... which should ensure success.

Let's talk about the itinerary. There are three possible routes to Pearl Harbor.

We decided to take the northern route which ensures minimal risk of contact with the enemy.

Any bad weather will hamper resupply though.

We have allowed for that possibility.

I recommend we sail guided by scouting aircraft.

I'm against that. Using scouting aircraft increases the chance of being detected.

I think so too. Surprise is essential in this.

Now, I will listen to headquarters staff opinions.

Our enemies on the bases at Midway, Wake and Johnston Island are constantly patrolling.

Their submarines are undoubtably searching for us at this very moment.

I do not see how our fleet can travel 2,000 miles without being discovered ...

... by enemy patrols.

The staff believe that this attack has very little chance of success.

Do you have an alternative?

We should not take on such a risky plan. Instead, we should ...

That's enough.

But Admiral, in the event that we were defeated at the beginning of the war...

Japan is a small country with little industry. In a war against the United States, we will lose.

Still, if we must fight them, the only way to beat them will be ...

... to try to take advantage of a suprise attack.

We have no other choice.

- Saka? - Yes, sir.

I understand what you are trying to say. But I have faith in the success of this plan.

I need you to work out the necessary strategy.

Aye, aye. I will not oppose this decision. I will do everything possible to carry out the plan, Admiral.

Take care.

PRIME MINISTER KONOYE'S RESIDENCE

I'm thinking of personally appealling to President Roosevelt.

An excellent idea.

But first I need to understand the real potential of the Navy's attack plan.

Tell me frankly, I need to know.

What are our options if negotiations fail?

If we receive the order to attack, I can play havoc with them for the first year.

And after that?

If the war lasts longer, I cannot guarantee anything.

We should avoid a war with the United States at all costs.

I am not a politician.

But Minister, I urge you to do everything in your power ...

... to reach an agreement in the Pacific with the United States.

Agreed. I will do my best.

I feel better now. I must return to the fleet.

Special Bulletin! Special Bulletin!

OCTOBER 18, 1941

'GENERAL TOJO FORMS NEW CABINET'

- Boatswain Omi. - Yes, sir.

- How long have you been in the Navy? - A year and ten months.

- A long time. - Yes, sir.

You've spent more time at your post than the prime minister.

From Nagano, Chief of Staff of the Imperial Navy To Yamamoto, Commander-in-Chief of the Combined Fleet ...

NAVY HEADQUARTERS OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF STAFF

Our country, claiming self-defense, has decided to declare war on the United States, Britain and The Netherlands.

You must make all necessary preparations to begin the war in the month of December.

The fleet will sail north in small groups to the Kuril Islands ...

... meeting up in Hittokapu Bay by November 23. We then set sail for Hawaii.

Our submarines will reach Hawaii on December 2nd to conduct reconnaissance.

The attack order will be coded as "Climb Mount Niitaka".

When you receive this message, launch the attack as scheduled.

In Washington, peace is still being negotiated.

There isn't much hope but in case an agreeement is reached, the operation is to be cancelled ...

... and the fleet must immediately return to Japan.

That will not be easy.

While in enemy waters, anything can happen.

Even if we arrive undetected, it is still a high risk situation.

The men will be disappointed.

Why do you serve in the military?

Our only goal is the maintenance of peace.

If any of you believe, that upon receiving the order, that you cannot obey ... then resign now!

The attack force left for Hawaii travelling through the North Pacific. There were six aircraft carriers.

Akagi, Kaga, Soryu, Hiryu, Shokaku and Zuikaku together with 378 aircraft forming ...

... the 'Kido Butai' - the First Carrier Strking Forcei.

The world had never seen such a force.

AIRCRAFT CARRIER AKAGI

'Climb Mt. Niikata' - I do not think that we will receive the attack order.

- Soon we will begin radio silence. - Slow down.

- Reduce to ten knots. - Yes. sir.

Order for Admiral Yamamoto. The Government has decided to declare war on the ...

... United States, Britain and The Netherlands. Stand by for action.

Captain!

- Is it the order to attack? - Yes, 'Climb Mount Niitaka' on December 8.

Admiral.

Combat orders: First - Attack and destroy the U.S. Pacific Fleet in Hawaii.

Second - The attack is to take place on December 8 Tokyo time.

- Captain! - Yes?

The war is finally starting!

December 7th - 1800 hours (Tokyo time)

The headquarters of the Imperial Navy has been informed ...

... that the vessels now in Pearl Harbor are:

Nine battleships, three light cruisers, three heavy cruisers and 17 destroyers.

In the spring there were 4 light cruisers. No heavy cruisers and no aircraft carriers.

Odd ... Where are the carriers?

Commander?

Ensure that our declaration of war reaches the enemy before the attack begins.

It will. Don't worry, Admiral.

I do not want to play dirty. If we attack without warning, we will lose honor.

Tell that to the Foreign Ministry.

The fate of our nation depends on this operation.

- Captain? - Yes, sir.

- Can I ask you something? - Of course.

I will be flying lower than usual. How low should I fly?

- I'll be flying at 300 feet. - You're going to piss them off.

- Who? - You will fly very low. I am speaking about the American ships.

The first squadron will take off at 0130 hours.

We have been preparing day and night for this. You have trained very hard.

Attack as if it were a drill .... with calm and courage.

Salute!

To your planes.

Turn into the wind!

- Ten degrees to starboard! - Ten degrees to starboard!

- Commence launching. - Take off!

On December 7 before dawn, Hawaiian time, 350 bombers and torpedo planes took off ...

... from the carriers towards Pearl Harbor, 230 miles to the south.

Soon, it will be dawn in Hawaii.

- Look! The sun! - It's beautiful ...

Captain! I just reached 1000 flight hours.

Congratulations. Keep it up, Lieutenant.

The sun has opened a rift in the clouds.

Thirty-degrees to the right.

I can see it!

The island of Oahu.

Attack as planned!

- All airplanes attack! - All airplanes attack!

Drop!

Dive!

Look out! We're attacking!

Bombs away ...

Dive!

- A message from Tsuji. - Yes?

We have received a message from the attack leader. 'Attack successfully completed.'

- Admiral, we've done it! Success! - Congratulations!

Gentlemen, this is the damage caused by the attack:

5 battleships sunk, 2 seriously damaged and 2 more hit. All the battleships that were in the harbor ...

... two light cruisers sunk and two damaged. Ten other vessals damaged.

... 450 enemy aircraft destroyed on the ground. Much better than we expected!

The United States Pacific Fleet has been destroyed, Admiral.

Yes ... but there were no carriers.

Until we destroy their aircraft carriers, we have not won.

We must engage them in a decisive battle. We can not let our guard down.

'VICTORY IN HAWAII AND LUZON!'

'BRITISH FAR EAST FLEET SUNK'

- What? A celebration party? - Your presence is expected, Admiral.

Who will be at this party?

Navy Headquarters, The Defense Ministry. Foreign Affairs ...

That's enough...

- Tell them I can not attend. - Very well.

I don't think we're in any position to celebrate.

The United States is going to counter-attack us ... soon.

If we give them enough time, our suprise attack becomes a fatal error.

- Wait a moment.

Let the men that were on the attack take some leave.

- Keisuke! - Hello!

-I hate you. - Huh?

- I don't know you. - Pardon?

Good to see you.

Tomoko!

- Sumie! - What happened?

- Guess who's back! Keisuke! - Really?

- He's coming. - Really?

- Yes. - Where is he?

- Down there. - It's been such a long time!

- What's he doing?

- Don't say that ... you're our hero! - Don't be modest!

- You want to hear about everything from Keisuke, right? - Yes!

- Keisuke!

Sister, I have returned!

- Don't talk to me like that. We're going home! - Sorry! We've been dreaming of that.

- It's okay. - See you.

- Heroes always ignore their sisters.

Okay. Today, I'll let you rest.

As if it was you who was going to tell war stories!

- I will be staying a few days but I'll see you later. - See you.

I'm happy for both for them.

- Sumie. - Tell me.

- Thank you. - Why?

I'm a naval officer thanks to you, sister. If it were not for you, I would not have gotten in.

No need to thank me.

Tomoko?

Come here a minute!

- Don't you think that she is even more beautiful than before? - Don't be silly ...

- Tomoko, do me a favor. - What?

- Find a good husband for my sister. - You fool!

- I'm serious. - By the way, did you get my letter?

Which one?

I sent you a letter. Tomoko's parents have agreed that she marry.

What?

When did you write this?

- Well ... in late December. - At the time, I was at sea.

- I have to go, Sumie. - But it's still early!

- I know. -I'll walk with you.

- Good idea. See you later. - Come on.

- Good evening. - Take it easy.

The Fleet won victory after victory. The U.S., British and Dutch forces were ...

... expelled from the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean.

Japan got it's raw materials from the south.

This is a good time to reach a peace agreement.

We could dictate our own terms and conditions.

For example, we could agree to evacuate the occupied areas.

- That will not be easy. - Would it be impossible?

There is too much war euphoria ... a thirst for war.

Those who stand up for peace will considered traitors.

Yes. Everyone has gone mad.

I want you to plan another decisive move ...

... for peace.

We must destroy their aircraft carriers. It is the only way...

HIROSHIMA BAY

The huge new flagship YAMATO has arrived.

BATTLESHIP YAMATO

MIDWAY OPERATION.

- This plan was rejected? - Yes, Admiral.

- Why? - You explain.

- No, you explain. - You seem in a bad mood.

I do not understand why.

Calm down. Sit.

Tell me.

Imperial Army headquarters ...

... doesn't want us to capture New Caledonia in order to sever the lines of supply between the U.S. and Australia.

- This war will never end! - Relax, nothing is gained by your anger.

- I know ... - The Army wants to stop further operations in the south ...

... and instead expand into this region of China.

What idiots! They're selfish and envious of the Navy's success.

Prime Minister Tojo wants wait until after the elections to decide.

- How dare they? We are not fighting for interests of politicians!

I will not wait! Proceed with the Midway operation!

April 18, 1942.

American B-25s bomb the city of Tokyo. They had taken off from the aircraft carrier Hornet ...

... forcing Admiral Yamamoto to accelerate the Midway operation.

- The Japanese Kido Butai force ...

... will attack Miday from the air!

Our forces will destroy their aircraft and military facilities ...

... then cover our invasion troops.

We will use all available resources in this operation: ...

... 350 ships, 1000 aircraft and 100,000 men. The largest fleet ...

in history ... committed to an operation that can decide the future of our country.

- Engines full ahead! - Engines full ahead!

Akagi and Kaga underway!

Send the message "We wish you luck."

The carriers Akagi, Kaga, Soryu and Hiryu led the fleet to Midway.

I hope the crew isn't too tired.

The crew is in excellent spirits.

I'm tired of your bullying. Lieutenant Kimura!

- What! - Back from your visit home more boastful than ever!

- He has reason to brag. - Let's see? Come on! She's very nice!

- Let me see. Yes ... beautiful. - Can I see?

Captain! Teach them a lesson!

All right, listen up.

I'll tell you what happened to me fifteen years ago aboard the Akagi. The weather was really bad; poor visibility

One aircraft landed halfway down the landing deck.

The plane was about to fall into the sea when an officer ran over and grabbed his wing.

He saved the plane from imminent disaster. Who do you think that was?

Don't know? It was the captain of the Akagi, lsoroku Yamamoto.

- What? Our commander-in-chief? - The same.

That was great. I'll tell another about the Admiral.

You? Tell us!

About when the Admiral was Navy Vice-minister. Let's see ...

Are you going to be up all night telling this? You better not even start.

- Are you going to leave us in suspense? - It's kind of a secret ...

- Much ado about nothing. - Never mind. It's better that no one knows.

- Why? Did you have an affair with him?

600 miles behind the carriers, Admiral Yamamoto leds the rest of the fleet eastward.

June 5, 1942. The first wave of 108 aircraft took off towards the island of Midway.

Midway Island in sight!

I imagined it bigger.

Such a small target.

We didn't need all these planes!

Enemy fighters!

Attack!

Dive!

Now!

Completed attack. Almost no effect. Necessary second attack. Send immediately.

The second wave we reserved if needed to attack enemy carriers.

We can not send the entire second wave.

When will the first wave return?

Our scouts have been gone for two hours. Why haven't they reported in?

Our most important priority is Midway. If we do not destroy their bases ...

... we leave ourselves open to a counter-attack.

We're here.

Are we ready?

Yes, commander. Everyone is prepared and awaiting the arrival of the enemy.

What the hell are our scout planes doing?

Enemy ships!

Scout number 4 reporting ten enemy ships, repeat ten enemy ships 240 miles and 10 degrees north of Midway.

What kind of ships? Find out if there are any aircraft carriers!

Yes, sir! Report ship types. Are there any aircraft carriers?

No aircraft carriers.

Five cruisers, five destroyers, no aircraft carriers.

No aircraft carrier.

Still no sign of enemy aircraft?

No enemy in sight, Captain.

Sir, ...

... a few days ago, their carriers were seen in the Coral Sea.

- There can be no ememy carriers near us. - We should attack Midway again.

Admiral, a second attack?

Change course towards Midway. Start replacing torpedoes with bombs on the second wave!

Replace the torpedoes with bombs! Replace the torpedoes with bombs!

I hope for all our sakes that enemy carriers are all far away.

Ready? Go!

Ready? Yeah!

Ready? Now!

Bring it in!

Come on! Hurry! Go ahead.

What is that?

Scout 4 reports detecting two enemy aircraft carriers! Two enemy carriers!

What?

Captain, this is a disaster!

Yes ... We should attack the enemy ships immediately.

But we're still replacing torpedoes with bombs to attack Midway.

I know that! And we need fighters to escort our attack on the enemy carriers!

Just send our bombers.

Urgent message from the Hiryu:

'Request permission to attack enemy ships'

Captain?

Admiral?

We cannot send our bombers out without fighter protection.

Attack the enemy ships.

Land our fighters for re-fueling.

While doing that, replace bombs with torpedoes on the bombers!

Enemy ships have been sighted! We will attack them! Replace bombs with torpedoes! Go!

Have you finished reinstalling the torpedoes? Hurry! Urgent!

- If the Americans attack now, we are helpless. - Tell them to finish as quickly as possible.

Any messages?

Scout planes reporting many enemy planes heading toward us!

At 50 miles, 340 degrees north of Midway.

- 50 miles? - When will they arrive?

30 minutes!

- Hurry! Finish preparations for the attack! Urgent!

Five minutes. They will be ready in five minutes.

Take off when ready.

Take off as they become ready.

Pilots! Take off now!

Enemy aircraft!

Starboard side!

There! Fire!

Captain! Are we alone in the air!

The Kaga is sinking!

Captain!

Admiral?

Read it.

Attacked by enemy aircraft. Akagi, Kaga and Soryu destroyed.

Message from Admiral Yamaguchi: Hiryu undamaged.

Hiryu ready to launch attack.

Send a message to the Hiryu. Wish them a good fight.

We'll join up with the planes taking from off the Hiryu.

Captain, we're low on fuel.

Low? How much longer can we fly?

We've been flying 30 minutes. We have fuel for 300 miles more.

Not enough. We won't make it back.

- So what? - Our ship has been sunk anyway.

All right, we will continue.

U.S. Navy aircraft carrier "Yorktown"

Now!

The attack sank the Yorktown. But the Americans struck back and sank the Hiryu.

All four Japanese carriers that participated at the Battle of Midway were lost.

Yamamoto, willing to gamble everything in a night battle,

proceeded aboard the Yamato toward the American fleet.

- Where is the enemy? - 400 miles away.

- Still that far? - Looks like they are trying to elude us.

Admiral, I do not think there will be a battle tonight.

Captain, why not attack Midway instead?

We could bombard the bases.

We should join up with the other ships for a joint attack.

- But ... - Why not?

It makes no sense that we continue playing a game we've already lost.

We must retreat.

Admiral, how will we apologize to the Emperor?

Leave that to me. I must go and apologize to His Majesty.

We lost four carriers. But this does not mean we cannot build others.

We are back at square one. Wars are like this.

Make a list of all casulties from this operation.

Yamamoto had again lost hope for a quick victory.

What was left of the Japanese fleet retired to the west. Then, three days later ...

- I just saw the Bonin Islands. - Yes, we're not far from Japan.

We received a message from General Headquarters.

They decided to inform His Majesty.

And so it goes ...

I do not want anyone to blame Admiral Nagumo.

Tell everyone that I am responsible for everything.

Admiral, my poor management of this operation has had very serious consequences. I'm sorry ... I'm sorry.

We are deeply ashamed. Admiral, we beg you for another chance.

You will.

You have my trust.

The defeat at Midway was a blow to the Japanese Navy.

But the people were never told about it.

IWAKUNI AIR BASE

I'm Lieutenant Kimura. I'll be taking you to the Saeki air base.

From there, you'll be assigned to aircraft carriers or land air bases.

But first, the Commander-in-Chief will inspect our ranks.

Hold your heads high as the Commander-in-Chief passes by!

- Pilot. - Yes!

- How many hours have you flown? - 220, Sir.

- And you? - 230 hours, Sir.

- And you? - 200 hours, Sir.

They have very few flight hours. They really need about six months of practical flying.

But we badly need carrier pilots.

We had pilots at Midway with over 1,000 hours of flight.

- How many hours have you had? - 210 hours, Sir.

- Flying time? - 230, Sir!

- No need to raise your voice. - Understood.

- You can shout if you want. How old are you? - Eighteen!

These men remind me of a young officer who came to visit me ...

... at the Navy Ministry when I was Deputy Minister.

Admiral, do you mean me?

Yes, I do.

Do what you can to guide these young people. I trust you.

A few months after the Battle of Midway, the U.S. Navy headed west ...

... to build a base on the island of Espiritu Santo.

Admiral Yamamoto deduced this would happen and reinforced the island of Rabaul.

So began the battle of Guadalcanal.

BATTLE OF THE EASTERN SOLOMONS AUGUST 24, 1942.

IMPERIAL ARMY HEADQUARTERS

On August 24, our Navy, in the vicinity of the Solomon Sea, intercepted an enemy fleet ...

... and forced it to retire after having inflicted grave damage. The results as of today are:

One American aircraft carrier sunk, another aircraft carrier and a battleship damaged.

But Japanese troops on Guadalcanal were surprised by several waves of ...

U.S. aircraft flying from the airfield they captured on Guadalcanal.

Take cover! Everyone take cover!

TRUK ISLAND

You two will travel to Rabaul and participate in the meeting called by the Army.

The Army is very stubborn.

Well, try not to argue with them. Clear?

-I think he's talking to you. - I thought it was you?

Try to reach an agreement with them.

The Army and Navy should act in unison.

What means of transportation did you use to get here?

Destroyers ... moving at night to avoid being spotted.

How many men can fit in a destroyer?

ARMY HEADQUARTERS - RABAUL.

A maximum of 170 men - fully equipped.

We must send 15,000 men to Guadalcanal.

I want to organize a large convoy to strike in one night.

You have warships at anchor now, correct?

Tsuji, that is a matter for the Navy, not the Army.

You should not get into subjects you are not experienced in.

Reinforcing Guadalcanal is our top priority.

That is why Headquarters sent you to negotiate with us.

We know. Admiral Yamamoto is concerned about the same thing

I hope the Army understands. Destroyers are very valuable to us ...

- Ever since the defeat at Midway ... - That's the Navy's problem.

How can you ...?

Tsuji, back to the question that concerns us all.

Admiral Yamamoto said that the Army and Navy should be in agreement ...

... and act in unison. We are willing to do everything possible to help.

Have Admiral Yamamoto accept my sincere thanks for those words.

From now on, we will act together to address this complicated situation. This is my decision.

Japanese destroyers, loaded with provisions and ammunition, ...

... departed for Guadalcanal ... ... timed to arrive at night.

- Will this be enough? - I don't think there is food for everyone.

I'm sick of being a mule, bringing food up and down ...

Attention!

Our comrades on Guadalcanal are waiting for these supplies!

Can you imagine how they feel? Can you understand that?

Every grain of rice, every drop of water means new hope for them ... Understood?

Into the water!

Release provisions!

Enemy aircraft! Man the anti-aircraft guns!

Attacked by enemy aircraft ... Destoyer Murakumo damaged, Natsugumo sunk.

Admiral, we can not afford afford to keep losing ships like this.

Commander Watanabe! The Admiral looks very tired.

Is something wrong?

The Admiral carries the weight of Japan on his back.

What is it?

- Tell me. - I was remembering my father, Admiral.

- Really? That much like me? - More or less his age.

- And how is he? - By comparison, he looks much older.

He must rely on you a lot.

Admiral ... I beg you to rest.

Petty Officer Omi.

From now on I always want to take the second uniform.

What do you mean?

I mean ... the white uniform

Very well. I'll get it now.

Staff Officer Tsuji. I have come to report on the Guadalcanl situation.

Admiral, I would like to apologize for what I said that time in the Ministry.

No matter ... a long time ago. Tell me, how are things at Guadalcanal?

The enemy has received reinforcements much more quickly than we have.

Despite the help of the Navy, we have been unable to get enough supplies to our troops.

They're starving. We still must save Guadalcanal no matter the costs.

We have an entire division prepared in Rabaul but General Hyakutake does not want to cause you more trouble ...

... and so he plans to go to Guadalcanal by troop-ship.

That's nonsense.

I remember you opposed this war from the beginning. You cannot imagine how much ...

... I regret not having listened.

That's ancient history .

If necessary, I will take this battleship, the Yamato, to Guadalcanal.

So try to convince General Hyakutake not to take a troop-ship.

I want to do it properly ... aboard Japanese warships.

I will. Thank you.

No need to thank me. Why don't you stay for dinner?

Thank you for coming. I know Ugaki is against it but ...

The Admiral wants to take the Yamato to Guadalcanal.

Kurita, I wish I were you.

Me?

We have to destroy the enemy airfield on Guadalcanal.

Take the Kongo and Haruna and bombard it.

Admiral. I'm afraid it will be very difficult to get there. The Americans have radar.

Last time, we were detected and turned back without completing the mission

- This time, there can be no turning back. - I know.

I will go.

Are you sure?

I will give the crews rifles. If the bombardment fails then we land in boats ...

... and have the men attack the airfield from the ground.

I wish you luck .

BATTLESHIPS KONGO AND HARUNA

Battleships departing!

Why is the Admiral wearing his white uniform?

Perhaps as encouragement.

- That's possible. - The color white is very striking.

I don't know why but this worries me a little.

For the next 100 days, I will behave in a most dignified manner. At the end of the day, I can not tell my men ...

... that I was unprepared for death.

Admiral, Battleship Division 3 just reached their destination.

They report "We have started the bombardment."

October 14, 1942: Battleships Haruna and Kongo shell Guadalcanal.

More than 900 14-inch shells are fired against Henderson Field causing ...

... severe damage to the enemy airfield.

Admiral Nimitz moved his fleet northward to meet the Japanese ships.

The Japanese sent the three carriers Shokaku, Zuikaku, Zuiho for ...

... the decisive battle in the South Pacific.

OCTOBER 26, 1942 BATTLE OF THE SANTA CRUZ ISLANDS

Enemy aircraft detected!

General Quarters!

The decisive hour has come.

We attack!

Now!

- One aircraft carrier sunk and another warship damaged. - Well ... very good news.

Hopefully nothing but good news.

- I do not think that's possible. - We have lost many planes.

- It will soon be dark. - Why don't we go after them?

That's what Headquarters decided.

Mikami, don't give up !

Mikami, hold on!

The battle was over. The Japanese fought well and won ...

... but the men on Guadalcanal had run out of supplies.

... out of ammunition ...

... and out of food. They survived by ...

... eating fruits and lizards ... whatever they found in the jungle.

Imperial Army Headquarters considered the situation critical and organized more reinforcements.

General Imamura was appointed commander.

Imamura visited Admiral Yamamoto aboard the Yamato, which was anchored in Truk.

Yamamoto received him personally.

- I'm the last one to get into the war. - Thanks for coming. This way...

The enemy outnumbers us in men and resources. The Guadalcanal situation is desperate.

Winning this battle is critical.

Yes. In fact, before leaving Tokyo I got an audience with the Emperor.

His Majesty expressed his great concern for the men on Guadalcanal and begged me ...

... to support them at any price. There were tears in his eyes.

I'm so sorry.

I am prepared to give my life for this mission.

I know. But I beg you to be realistic.

It is very important that we do not rush things. I'll do what I can to help.

Agreed. Thank you very much.

At that time, of the 36,000 Japanese who had landed at Guadalcanal, 24,000 had died.

Survivors suffered terrible hunger, stifling heat and all kinds of diseases.

Death was imminent.

General, we must make a decision!

This is our last chance to organize an attack.

It's been a week since we received any supplies.

Our men are forced to drink sea water or die of dehydration.

I know. But, as things stand, we have no chance of success.

General, I beg you!

Contact Rabaul and ask for instructions.

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTH ARMY IN RABAUL.

Message from Guadalcanal.

That's all.

What is it?

The submarine with supplies did not reach Guadalcanal. It was sunk by the enemy.

Damn!

It's impossible to get supplies to the men on Guadalcanal!

They need reinforcements. We must immediately send the 20th Division.

No. I will not allow that.

We will just end up losing more men at sea.

But if we do nothing, the men on Guadalcanal will all die soon.

All 12,000 men ... will die.

Commander Watanabe from the Imperial Fleet just arrived.

I'd like to speak to General Imamura on behalf of the Admiral.

Tell me.

Admiral Yamamoto is very concerned about the situation on Guadalcanal ...

... and would like to know the General's intentions.

Regarding what?

Well ... He wanted to know if the general would be willing to consider an evacuation.

I have come to ask Imamura that directly.

No, you can't.

Why not?

The general isn't ready ... to face that.

But ... it is necessary.

If you phrase it like that, it only worries him more. Impossible.

You'll have to understand. Unfortunately, I can not do anything for you, Commander.

Do not insist on this.

Very well ... but what about the Admiral? What do I tell him?

I couldn't get in to see General Imamura.

Imamura and I have different points of view. So, I alone must decide.

The Navy will conduct an evacuation.

Proceed with Operation 'K' - total evacuation.

We will rescue everyone at Guadalcanal ... not leaving a single man behind.

Hey! Is there anyone still here?

The boats are leaving! Is there anyone here?

Come on, let's go!

I can't move. Go on without me.

Come on! I'll carry you !

February 7, 1943: 13,050 survivors of Guadalcanal were evacuated in the darkness.

Admiral Yamamoto moved his forward base, along with all it's aircraft, to Rabaul.

He came with the intention of recovering air superiority in the Solomons Islands.

Lieutenant Kimura reporting with 130 men!

I wish you good hunting.

April 7, 1943: 227 planes attack Guadalcanal.

April 11, 1943: 94 planes attack New Guinea.

April 12, 1943: 162 aircraft attack the air base in Port Moresby.

Today, we can now consider our mission as completed.

Send the aircraft back to re-group.

But sir, the air battle in the Solomons is intensifying.

We can not afford to send the crews home now. Admiral, give them more time.

Japan has lost all chance of a quick victory. This will be a long war.

We must now reorganize our forces.

By the way, commander ... I will be going to the front for inspections.

Where, sir?

Bougainville ... Ballale... That's where.

You should be aware that there are daily air raids in those areas.

Yes, I know.

Then I will send escorting fighters while you are at the front.

No, that will not be necessary.

All I want is to visit the men on the front ... to give them encouragement.

When I think back over this past year, I realize that I can not count how many ...

... friends I have lost.

Lieutenant Kimura reporting.

So, it's you. ... What is it?

We will not leave you here and go back to our homes. We want to stay with you.

Idiot! ... This war is not being waged by me alone!

You must have a broader view.

During these very difficult times ...

... you have done an outstanding job. But I ask each of you to strive even harder from afar. I wish you luck.

We will now board these aircraft to fly back to Japan!

Admiral, are you sure?

When does my plane take off ?

Tomorrow - 0600 - we take off from Rabaul aboard a bomber.

... scheduled landing Ballale at 0745. ... I advise you to rest until then.

I want to go visit the hospital now.

- Where are you hurt ? - Chest.

- Does it hurt much? - No, sir.

- What do you have? - Malaria, sir.

- Doctor! - Yes, sir.

- Is there enough medicine? - Yes, sir.

- Are you cold? - No, sir.

Get well soon.

I apologize on behalf of my father.

Sorry ... my father made you fall into the water.

So you're the son of the boatman!

I remember it like it was yesterday ...

... yet so long ago.

Where does it hurt ?

Head injury.

- Where were you? - On the destroyer Naganami.

Squeeze my hand.

With all your strength.

You're strong already. Soon you'll be fine.

Your father is well?

Tell him hello for me.

I found this in the Admiral's cabin.

For the next hundred days, ...

... I must prepare myself for death. I can not tell the men ...

I understand now why the Admiral has been wearing his white uniform.

'Take a few days preparing for death...' Commander, let me go to Rabaul. Please!

I have to see the Admiral!

Petty Officer Omi, sir!

- Is something wrong? - Admiral, I brought your other uniform.

Change, please.

- What's wrong with this one? - Nothing, but on the front, the white color attracts attention.

I beg you.

All right ... if you insist, I'll change.

Admiral, I'll be waiting for you back on the Yamato. Good luck.

I'm Lieutenant Yonichi. Tomorrow, I will be escorting you to the front, sir.

- We've met before? - On the field at Iwakuni!

I remember. You're the pilot who was shouting so much.

- How many flying hours do you have now? - 630 hours.

A considerable amount. Have you learned a lot?

How about your classmates?

Only seven of his twenty classmates are alive, sir. The others died in combat.

Tomorrow, I want you to show me what you've learned.

The next day, Yamamoto and his men took two bombers to Ballale Island escorted by six fighters.

Japanese troops eagerly awaited his arrival. But they were not the only ones waiting for the Admiral ...

There were others.

Japanese messages had been intercepted and decoded.

Admiral ... landing in Ballale in ten minutes.

The fighters escorting the Admiral had almost empty fuel tanks.

Then they were surprised by enemy aircraft.

Damn!

Admiral, we'll land at the base of Buin.

April 18, 1943: Admiral Yamamoto was killed while flying over Bougainville.

Isoroku Yamamoto, 16 months after the attack on Pearl Harbor and after leading a war that he opposed from the beginning, died on the front line.