Written and directed by Darren Haruo Rae, the journey of two Japanese-American brothers during World War II, Minoru and John Miyasaki. Stripped of their citizenship and placed in internment camps, they volunteer for the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, an all Japanese-American unit that sacrificed everything, to prove their loyalty to a country that doesn’t want them.
Starring: Jonathan Tanigaki, Brent Yoshida, Shiro Kawai, Jabez Armodia, Alfred Hsing, Jason Jia, Jason Loy, Mila Schelter, Hudson Naruo, Matt McTighe, Darin Cooper and Matt Kaufman.
As soon as you step into the world of Nisei, there’s a strong emotional current at work, Darren Haruo Rae creates an enveloping atmosphere. You can tell the film comes from a very personal place by the tone that it takes, straying away from your typical air of war and violence, into something deeper and meaningful. There’s a refined edge to Rae’s directorial style, which is well paired with Connor Bodell’s nostalgic, softened cinematography. As well as an excellent use of framing which helps to emphasise the film’s depth and wider meaning.
We’re finally reaching a time where the underserved stories of people of colour fighting for their country throughout the World War I and II are being told. Nisei is a particularly poignant example, blending what it means to fight for your country, with fighting for it to be your country to begin with. Exploring that frame of mind, looking towards the future and what your actions could mean for the generations to follow. It’s very touching but plays things in an understated manner, perhaps even a bit too much at times, but in doing so, it holds onto a strongly sincere atmosphere while making its story accessible to a wide audience.
Similar could be said of the performances from the leading actors, Jonathan Tanigaki and Brent Yoshida, they’re undeniably filled with emotion but for the most part, it’s subtle and modest. Yoshida gives us the more classic, wearing his hurt and resentment of his country’s prejudice on his sleeve. He’s strong and charismatic, then Tanigaki’s Minoru matches that strength and balances that with a sensitivity and generosity. Those two compelling performances are then backed up by a charming ensemble who give the film a lighter touch and feeling of camaraderie.
Nisei is a moving portrayal of the second-generation immigrant experience, respecting the past but wanting to build a lasting future and home. Darren Haruo Rae’s directorial style is strong, there’s an impressive consistency throughout, it builds an impactful atmosphere and holds an inviting, warm tone, despite dealing with what can be a harsh topic.
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