Just days after the U.S. occupation of Japan was terminated, director Shindo and crew arrived in Hiroshima to begin shooting the first uncensored film about the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945. Also known as "Atom Bomb Children," this wistful film is based on a popular collection of stories written by children who survived the devastation. Following suit, Shindo's cast includes many youthful hibakusha (A-bomb survivors). The pitiable reality of life after the catastrophe is seen through the eyes of a kindergarten teacher who returns to Hiroshima to seek out her former students and make a brief pilgrimage to the site of her home beside Kokutaiji Temple-better known as ground zero. The individual stories of the children are tearful, but Shindo's delicate hand accentuates hope, stressing life over death. Never angry, never scolding, Children of Hiroshima is a plea for peace rendered in the ashes of ruin.-Steve Seid