Film Lens
The film presents a factual account of the events surrounding the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. It begins with a depiction of Hawaii before the attack, highlighting the serene atmosphere in Honolulu and the military readiness at Hickam Field and Pearl Harbor. Despite a Number One Alert being in effect for 11 days, the military was unprepared for an aerial assault, as precautions focused on sabotage rather than invasion. The film captures the moment of tranquility before chaos erupted, illustrating the stark contrast between daily life and the impending attack.
As the narrative unfolds, it details the aftermath of the attack, showing the transformation of Hawaii from a peaceful paradise to a war zone. The Aloha Tower, once a symbol of hospitality, is now painted in war colors, and the once-bustling Waikiki Beach is deserted. The film emphasizes the impact of war on the local population, including the erasure of Japanese culture and the somber changes in the community's daily life. The film concludes with a reflection on the treachery of war and its consequences for Hawaii and its people.
Why Watch
- •See the calm before the Pearl Harbor attack unfold.
- •Find out how Hawaii changed after December 7, 1941.
- •Meet the soldiers at Hickam Field during the attack.
Did You Know
•A Number One Alert had been in effect for 11 days before the attack.
•Pearl Harbor housed 86 vessels on the morning of December 7, 1941.
•The film mentions that the Aloha Tower is now clad in war paint.
•Black-outs in the city started promptly at dusk after the attack.
Perfect For
World War II historyMilitary strategyHawaiian cultureAmerican history