Blue Chalk Media Announces New Documentary: Atomic Veterans
NEW YORK, NY, Dec 17, 2024 Blue Chalk is proud to announce its latest documentary project, Atomic Veterans, a timely and powerful film that delves into the scars of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings, on both sides of the war, as the 80th anniversary of these pivotal events approaches.
Atomic Veterans follows Karin Tanabe and Victoria Kelly, two friends whose families were on opposite sides of the war, as they embark on an emotional journey to uncover their family legacies. Through their exploration, the film sheds light on the enduring scars of the “hibakusha”—the estimated 650,000 Japanese survivors of the bombings and the “atomic veterans”—the estimated 200,000 American soldiers who responded in the immediate aftermath of the bombings.
Karin Tanabe and Victoria Kelly bring deeply personal connections to this project. Karin is a bestselling historical fiction novelist and former Politico reporter whose great-great-uncle was from Hiroshima and dedicated his life to peace-building after the bomb. Victoria is an award-winning author and poet whose grandfather, an American veteran who served in Nagasaki, was haunted by his experiences.
Directed and produced by Beatrice Becette and executive produced by Kenzie Bruce and Greg Moyer, Atomic Veterans combines deeply personal storytelling with interviews from historians, psychologists, and the last remaining survivors. The film aims to offer a new perspective on the nuclear age and its lasting consequences, urging reflection and peace as this pivotal anniversary approaches.
“With Atomic Veterans, we hope to preserve the voices of those who have experienced one of history’s most significant and devastating events,” said Greg Moyer. “This story and its lessons are vital, and we’re honored by the trust placed in us by Karin, Victoria, and the survivors who have bravely agreed to share with us.”
As the remaining survivors reach 100 years of age, time is running out to document their stories. Blue Chalk invites supporters to join this effort by contributing tax-deductible donations through The Film Collaborative. The funds raised will assist in bringing this journey of reconciliation and reflection to audiences worldwide.
For more information about Atomic Veterans, visit the film’s website and Instagram.