The Forgotten Force (1994): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1994, The Forgotten Force is a war, history and documentary film directed by Raymond Quint, running about 56 minutes. “Tells the story of Australia's role as part of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force in the occupation of Japan” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. After the atomic obliteration of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, over 36,000 Australian men and women, part of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force (BCOF), marched onto Japanese soil. They were assigned the toughest and most dangerous area of Japan: Hiroshima Prefecture, which included the atom-bombed city. The Forgotten Force tells for the first time the story of Australia's role in Japan. Rare archival and private footage, photographs and eyewitness accounts from both sides vividly recreate the atmosphere of post-war Japan - the horror of Hiroshima and its aftermath; the struggle to build a new "democratic" society while under the heel of military rule; the growth from suspicion and fear to friendship and trust between foes.

Who’s in it. The Forgotten Force stars Hugo Weaving as Narrator.

How it landed. With an audience score of 6.0/10, The Forgotten Force has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Forgotten Force page.

If you liked it. Fans of The Forgotten Force tend to enjoy Schindler's List, Grave of the Fireflies, The Pianist and Apocalypse Now.