THE CALLING OF DUTY
Written by
Gary J Rose [email protected]
(530) 613-9232
FADE IN:
INT. AUDITORIUM – DAY (1970S)
A modest high-school auditorium. Faded banners. Folding
chairs. The kind of room used for PTA meetings and school
plays.
Onstage stands KAZUO SAKAMAKI (early 50s) — humble, composed,
wearing a simple suit. He carries himself with quiet dignity,
not authority.
A small crowd waits. Students. A few teachers. Veterans from
the local American Legion.
Kazuo grips the edges of the podium — gently, almost
reverently.
For a moment, he does not speak.
Instead, he studies the faces before him — young Americans,
the children of the nation that once held him captive.
The silence stretches. When he finally does speak, his voice
is calm, measured, and deeply human.
SAKAMAKI
(softly)
Thank you for inviting me. I am
grateful to be here today… though
the story I will tell is not easy.
A ripple of attention moves through the room.
Kazuo reaches into his jacket pocket. Withdraws a faded
photograph — two young men in naval whites. One of them is
him. The other is CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER KIYOSHI INAGAKI —
smiling, confident.
Kazuo sets the photograph on the podium.
SAKAMAKI (CONT’D)
(quiet)
This is my friend… Inagaki.
The man I could not save.
Kazuo looks out at the crowd again. His gaze softens — less
lecturer, more survivor.
SAKAMAKI
Before I speak of war… I must speak of what it takes from us.
He closes his eyes.
FLASH CUT TO:
BLACK WATER — DARKNESS — SILENCE
A low metallic GROAN reverberates through the depths.
Genres:
["Drama","Historical"]
Ratings
Scene
2 -
Turbulence Beneath the Waves
EXT. PACIFIC OCEAN – NIGHT (1941)
A vast, moonless horizon. Wind lashes across the surface.
Two DARK SHAPES move beneath the swells — Japanese I-BOATS,
steel giants cruising toward Hawaii.
INT. HA-19 MIDGET SUBMARINE – SAME
Cramped. Suffocating. Steam and battery fumes mingle in the
recycled air.
ENNSIGN KAZUO SAKAMAKI (23) grips the tiny helm, sweat
rolling down his neck despite the cold.
Beside him, CWO INAGAKI, his navigator, studies a flickering
gauge — the gyrocompass spins erratically.
INAGAKI
(whispers)
Gyro is off again. Same drift as
before.
A small pause. The only sound is the dull hum of the electric
motor.
SAKAMAKI
We stay on course. We have to.
Inagaki gives a small nod. Loyal. Unquestioning.
The sub SHUDDERS violently — throwing both men against the
bulkhead.
INAGAKI
Batteries overheating.
A hiss. A thin smoke rises from a junction box.
Sakamaki reaches for the manual pump, fighting it with both
hands.
SAKAMAKI
Keep her steady—
(grunts)
We push forward.
Inagaki wipes sweat from his eyes, blinking hard through the
fumes.
INAGAKI
(smiles faintly)
Just like training, eh?
Sakamaki forces a breath — half-laugh, half-exhaustion.
SAKAMAKI
Training never smelled this
terrible.
Another tremor. The sub tilts.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
3 -
Depths of Isolation
EXT. PACIFIC OCEAN – SAME TIME
A faint glint of moonlight. The sub’s silhouette barely
breaks the waves.
INT. HA-19 – CONTINUOUS
Inagaki wrestles with another gauge. The glass fogs from
condensation.
INAGAKI
If we surface too early—
SAKAMAKI
—we fail Japan. I know.
Sakamaki’s eyes burn — not from fumes, from determination.
He glances at the photo taped above the helm:
His family.
Their faces remind him why he volunteered.
Inagaki sees the look.
INAGAKI
Kazuo…
(soft, honest)
You carry too much alone.
Sakamaki keeps his eyes forward.
SAKAMAKI
We both do.
A beat. A deep bond — quiet, male, military.
Then—
A metallic SCREECH cuts through the hull.
A jolt nearly knocks them off their seats.
INAGAKI
We hit something— reef or wreckage—
SAKAMAKI
(checking controls)
Hull’s intact for now.
“For now” hangs in the air.
EXT. OCEAN SURFACE – SAME
A dark swell rises, then collapses back over the unseen sub.
The moon disappears behind clouds.
Darkness returns.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
4 -
Bravery in the Depths
INT. HA-19 – LATER (PRE-DAWN)
A low HUM. The lights flicker. Condensation drips from the
ceiling.
Sakamaki checks the periscope depth gauge — the needle
jitters, inconsistent.
INAGAKI
Gyro’s drifting harder.
(beat)
We’re out by… maybe three degrees.
Three degrees in a midget sub is death.
Sakamaki adjusts the helm, jaw tight.
SAKAMAKI
We correct as we go. Keep eyes on
depth.
Inagaki nods, fighting nausea as the fumes thicken.
A LOUD METALLIC THUD
The sub lurches sideways.
Inagaki slams into the bulkhead.
INAGAKI
That wasn’t reef— something bigger.
Another SHUDDER. The lights go out for a beat— then return,
dimmer.
Sakamaki steadies the controls with both hands.
SAKAMAKI
(quiet, resolute)
We push on.
FLASHBACK — TRAINING DOCK, JAPAN (DAY)
Bright sunlight. A young Sakamaki and Inagaki stand beside HA-
19 before its first sea test.
Inagaki hands Sakamaki a small carved netsuke — a tiny wooden
charm shaped like a turtle.
INAGAKI (FLASHBACK)
For luck. My father gave it to me
before he left for China.
(smiles)
Now I give it to you.
Sakamaki hesitates — honor and humility at war.
SAKAMAKI (FLASHBACK)
I cannot take this.
INAGAKI (FLASHBACK)
It’s not for you.
(softly)
It’s for our mission… and for
coming home.
Sakamaki bows, humbled.
BACK IN THE
SUBMARINE
The charm now hangs from a small string near the helm — its
edges worn smooth from handling.
Inagaki notices Sakamaki’s hand brush it… seeking steadiness.
INAGAKI (CONT’D)
(choked smile)
Father would tell you it’s only
lucky if we act bravely.
SAKAMAKI
We’re acting. Every second.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
5 -
Silent Desperation
INT. HA-19 – CONTINUOUS
The battery fumes thicken.
Inagaki coughs. Hard.
SAKAMAKI
Mask on.
Inagaki slips on a crude oxygen mask — more canvas than
equipment — and takes a shallow breath.
INAGAKI
(weak smile)
Smells better than the barracks
did.
Sakamaki’s lips twitch — the closest he’ll come to laughing
in this coffin of steel.
Then the motor WHINES — a rising, unstable pitch.
SAKAMAKI
Motor’s overheating.
He checks the panel — several dials are in the red.
INAGAKI
We can surface for a moment. Cool
the system.
Sakamaki shakes his head.
SAKAMAKI
Surface now and we’re seen.
(beat)
(MORE)
SAKAMAKI (CONT’D)
We run silent another five minutes.
Then reassess.
Inagaki accepts it, even if it terrifies him.
A bead of sweat crawls down his temple.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
6 -
Desperate Measures
EXT. PACIFIC OCEAN – MOMENTS LATER
A faint silhouette moves just under the waves — the HA-19
struggling forward, barely stable.
Above it, a U.S. PATROL BOAT passes in the distance, unaware
of what lies below.
INT. HA-19 – SAME
The motor suddenly GRINDS. Sparks flicker. A burnt-metal
smell fills the sub.
Sakamaki SLAMS a shutoff lever.
The motor dies.
Silence.
Not peace — the terrible, suffocating silence of a dead sub.
Inagaki looks at him, breathing thin, shallow air.
INAGAKI
If we cannot restart… we drift
until they find us.
Sakamaki looks at the hull — at the netsuke charm — then back
at his friend.
SAKAMAKI
They will not find us. Not yet.
He cranks the emergency manual starter — muscles straining —
teeth clenched.
Nothing.
He tries again.
A faint sputter.
Again.
A flicker of light. A cough from the engine.
INAGAKI
Come on… come on…
Sakamaki slams the lever one more time—
The motor ROARS weakly back to life.
Both men breathe — relief mixed with dread.
EXT. OCEAN SURFACE – SAME
The sub leaves a faint, barely noticeable ripple in the waves
as it rights itself.
INT. HA-19 – CONTINUOUS
Inagaki wipes his forehead.
INAGAKI
(struggling for breath)
Five hours until dawn.
Sakamaki nods — staring ahead as though he can see Pearl
Harbor through the steel.
SAKAMAKI
Five hours to fulfill our duty.
INAGAKI
And if we fail—
SAKAMAKI
We do not fail.
His tone leaves no space for doubt.
But his eyes… for the first time… show fear.
Genres:
["War","Drama","Historical"]
Ratings
Scene
7 -
Pressure and Peril
INT. HA-19 – PRE-DAWN (LATER)
The air grows thicker. The lights dim to a sickly yellow.
Condensation clings to every surface.
Inagaki rubs his temples — a slow, deliberate touch —
fighting dizziness.
INAGAKI
CO! is climbing.
(eyes the gauge)
We should scrub the air again.
Sakamaki checks the panel — their reserves are dangerously
low.
SAKAMAKI
One more cycle. Make it count.
Inagaki attaches the manual CO! scrubber — a clunky metal
cannister with fabric pads. He cranks it slowly. The
mechanism groans.
INAGAKI
(grunting)
Feels like cranking the rice mill
back home.
SAKAMAKI
Rice mills don’t kill you for
slowing down.
Inagaki smirks — faint, exhausted.
INAGAKI
You have not met my mother.
A SHUDDER PASSES THROUGH THE HULL
Both men tense. The sound is deep, resonant — like something
massive shifting in the dark.
INAGAKI
(low; uneasy)
That wasn’t current.
…Was it a ship?
Sakamaki listens carefully — breath held.
Another distant groan.
Not machinery.
Pressure.
The weight of the sea itself.
SAKAMAKI
We’re deeper than I want. Bring us
up a meter.
Inagaki adjusts the ballast valves. The sub rights itself,
rising slightly.
EXT. OCEAN SURFACE – SAME
A U.S. DESTROYER passes miles away, white bow wave glowing
faintly in the moonlight.
Its spotlight sweeps the dark ocean — missing the submerged
HA-19 by fate alone.
Genres:
["War","Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
8 -
Dawn of Destiny
INT. HA-19 – CONTINUOUS
Sweat beads on Inagaki’s brow. He blinks through the haze.
INAGAKI
Dawn’s not far. We’ll need to
approach from the east to avoid
patrols.
Sakamaki checks the tiny periscope — his view distorted by
spray and fog on the lens.
SAKAMAKI
Gyro drift will put us wide.
We adjust constantly, or we miss the harbor entirely.
Inagaki nods — it’s the truth none of their commanders wanted
to hear.
FLASHBACK — NAVAL BRIEFING ROOM, JAPAN
Officers stand over a map of Oahu.
A senior commander slams a pointer against the chart.
COMMANDER (FLASHBACK)
You will succeed. Failure is not
possible.
Your mission is the first strike toward a new destiny for
Japan.
Sakamaki absorbs the words — proud, terrified, trying not to
show it.
Inagaki, beside him, whispers:
INAGAKI (FLASHBACK)
Destiny is heavy.
(quiet smile)
But at least we carry it together.
BACK IN THE
SUBMARINE
The charm swings slightly as the hull trembles again.
INAGAKI (CONT’D)
I wonder what they’ll call us…
Heroes?
Or fools?
Sakamaki doesn’t answer right away.
SAKAMAKI
If we do our duty, none of that
matters.
INAGAKI
(smiles sadly)
I suppose not.
Inagaki’s breathing quickens — the fumes are getting to him.
He steadies himself on the bulkhead.
SAKAMAKI
Sit.
We can’t have you fainting on me.
Inagaki lowers himself, gulping shallow breaths.
INAGAKI
Kazuo…
If something happens to me—
SAKAMAKI
No.
Nothing will happen to either of us.
Inagaki studies him — loyal, but not naïve.
INAGAKI
You always say that. Even when you
don’t believe it.
Sakamaki grips the helm tighter.
EXT. PACIFIC OCEAN – APPROACH TO OAHU (PRE-DAWN)
The horizon glows faintly — the first hints of morning.
Dark silhouettes of land begin to take shape far in the
distance.
The HA-19 pushes forward, tiny and fragile beneath the waves.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
9 -
Beneath the Surface
INT. HA-19 – CONTINUOUS
Alarms softly BUZZ as the electrical system strains.
A faint trickle of seawater seeps in near Inagaki’s knee.
INAGAKI
We’re leaking again.
Sakamaki grabs a rag and stuffs it into the seam.
SAKAMAKI
It will hold.
For now.
Inagaki chuckles weakly.
INAGAKI
You say that too often.
Sakamaki forces a breath — part determination, part denial.
SAKAMAKI
Because we have no other choice.
A beat.
INAGAKI
(quiet)
You ever think about… after?
If we live?
Sakamaki keeps his eyes on the horizon he cannot see.
SAKAMAKI
I think about Japan.
About my mother.
And about doing what is expected of me.
Inagaki studies him — saddened by how much is unspoken.
INAGAKI
I think about home too.
But… (small smile)
I also think about the girl who said she would marry me if I
ever stopped being stubborn.
Sakamaki glances at him — surprised.
SAKAMAKI
You never told me that.
INAGAKI
You never asked.
A beat of warmth.
A rare moment of levity inside their steel coffin.
Then—
A DEEP, LOW RUMBLE.
A sound like the ocean itself moving.
Both men freeze.
Sakamaki leans close to the hull — listening.
INAGAKI
Is that—
SAKAMAKI
(sharp)
Quiet.
The rumble grows.
Then:
BOOM.
A distant explosion — muffled by miles of water, but
unmistakable.
Both men stare at each other.
Inagaki whispers:
INAGAKI
The attack has begun.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
10 -
Tension Beneath the Waves
INT. HA-19 – PRE-DAWN (CONTINUOUS)
The muffled BOOM reverberates through the sub again — this
time louder, clearer.
Inagaki grips a handrail, steadying himself.
INAGAKI
That sounded close.
SAKAMAKI
The planes have reached Pearl.
(beat)
Our window is now.
Sakamaki adjusts course — the helm stiff in his hands.
Inagaki checks the depth gauge, then the gyro. The numbers
drift… then drift again.
INAGAKI
Gyro’s worsening. We could be
veering off by more than ten
meters.
SAKAMAKI
Then we correct with instinct.
Inagaki exhales — not doubt, but fear of the unknown.
Another distant EXPLOSION rolls through the deep.
FLASH CUT TO:
EXT. PEARL HARBOR – PRE-DAWN
A Japanese torpedo plane dives toward Battleship Row.
BOOM— WHOOOM— CRACK!
Fireballs erupt. Smoke climbs into the morning sky.
INT. HA-19 – SAME
The submarine shivers — the water trembling from shockwaves
miles away.
Sakamaki steels himself.
SAKAMAKI
We’ve trained for chaos.
Hold steady.
Inagaki swallows hard, nods.
Genres:
["War","Drama","Historical"]
Ratings
Scene
11 -
Descent into Chaos
EXT. OCEAN SHELF – UNDERWATER APPROACH — MINUTES LATER
The HA-19 edges forward along a shadowed underwater ridge,
weaving between jagged coral and dark drop-offs.
The submarine is small, vulnerable, and pushed to its limit.
INT. HA-19 – CONTINUOUS
The fumes grow heavier — a haze hanging in the narrow space.
Inagaki’s breaths deepen.
INAGAKI
CO! is climbing faster. The
scrubbers aren’t keeping up.
Sakamaki checks the gauge.
It’s tipping well into the danger zone.
SAKAMAKI
We continue.
If we surface now, American patrols will see us instantly.
Inagaki forces discipline into his breathing.
Another distant EXPLOSION. Then another.
The hull vibrates — not from damage, but from the force of
war above.
EXT. PEARL HARBOR — SAME
A battleship lists heavily as Japanese bombs detonate across
its deck.
A plume of black smoke billows into the sky.
Sirens blare across the harbor.
INT. HA-19 – SAME
Inagaki leans against the bulkhead, eyes fluttering.
Sakamaki snaps to him.
SAKAMAKI
Inagaki.
Stay with me.
Inagaki opens his eyes, forces focus.
INAGAKI
(joking, strained)
If I pass out, just drag me to the
periscope.
Let me see something worth the pain.
Sakamaki cannot smile — but the line steadies him.
SAKAMAKI
Save your strength.
The motor whines — faltering again.
Sakamaki adjusts the throttle, coaxing every last bit of life
from the failing battery.
Genres:
["War","Drama","Historical"]
Ratings
Scene
12 -
Dawn of Destruction
EXT. OAHU COASTLINE – UNDERWATER (MINUTES LATER)
The first light of dawn spills over the coastline.
Above, chaos.
Below, the HA-19 presses forward through shadowed blue-black.
INT. HA-19 – CONTINUOUS
Inagaki wipes moisture from the periscope lens. He peers
through.
INAGAKI
I see masts… smoke… shapes moving.
We’re close.
The sub rocks — scraping coral.
SAKAMAKI
Careful— the entrance channel is
narrow.
We drift even slightly—
INAGAKI
—we run aground.
Yes. I know.
He manages a faint smirk.
Another rumble. Louder now.
INAGAKI (CONT’D)
God… listen to that.
SAKAMAKI
(keeping control)
History.
For better or worse.
Inagaki steadies his gaze through the periscope.
INAGAKI
Kazuo…
I can see the plumes.
Pearl Harbor is burning.
Sakamaki closes his eyes — not triumphant, but overwhelmed by
the enormity of it.
EXT. PEARL HARBOR – SAME
Flames rise from battleships.
Columns of smoke curl into the sky.
Japanese planes swarm overhead in formation.
The day that will change the world has begun.
Genres:
["War","Drama","Historical"]
Ratings
Scene
13 -
Descent into Crisis
INT. HA-19 – CONTINUOUS
Sakamaki grips the helm — knuckles pale.
SAKAMAKI
Prepare for final approach.
Inagaki nods, checking what few functioning gauges remain.
INAGAKI
Batteries at critical.
We have maybe… twenty minutes before full failure.
Sakamaki sets his jaw.
SAKAMAKI
Then twenty minutes is what we
have.
Inagaki gives a small, exhausted laugh.
INAGAKI
My father always said… the gods do
not give us perfect days.
Only the courage to face imperfect ones.
Sakamaki glances at the netsuke.
SAKAMAKI
Your father was wiser than our
commanders.
Inagaki smirks faintly.
Then—
The sub LURCHES sharply.
Inagaki grabs the pipes above.
INAGAKI
We hit another reef!
Sakamaki checks controls — the helm won’t budge.
SAKAMAKI
We’re snagged—
(trying again)
—stuck on the shelf!
The lights flicker. The motor whines weakly.
Inagaki fights panic.
INAGAKI
If we can’t free her—
SAKAMAKI
(sharp, commanding)
We free her.
Now brace—
He SLAMS the emergency ballast release.
EXT. UNDERWATER – SAME
The HA-19 jerks upward — scraping coral — then SHOOTS free
from the reef shelf, drifting into deeper water once more.
Genres:
["War","Drama","Historical"]
Ratings
Scene
14 -
Descent into Darkness
INT. HA-19 – CONTINUOUS
Both men lurch forward — coughing as a fresh wave of fumes
washes through the cabin.
Inagaki gasps.
INAGAKI
We won’t make it like this.
Sakamaki stares ahead, eyes burning.
SAKAMAKI
We make it.
Or we die trying.
INT. HA-19 – CONTINUOUS (MID-PAGE 19)
Inagaki wheezes — every breath thinner than the last. He
braces himself against the wall, trying to stay upright.
INAGAKI
(weak)
Kazuo… CO! is spiking.
We’re at… dangerous concentration.
Sakamaki checks the gauge — the needle trembles deep in the
red.
SAKAMAKI
We hold out as long as we can.
We’re too close to surface now.
Inagaki wipes condensation from his eyelids — blinking
through dizziness.
INAGAKI
(whispers)
I can’t feel my fingers.
Sakamaki hesitates — the first flicker of fear cracking
through his resolve.
SAKAMAKI
Stay seated. Conserve air.
Inagaki slides down the bulkhead to a seated position.
EXT. UNDERWATER APPROACH – SAME
The HA-19 drifts unevenly — losing stability, wobbling along
its axis.
Above, a plume of smoke from Pearl Harbor spreads across the
sky.
Genres:
["War","Drama","Historical"]
Ratings
Scene
15 -
Descent into Uncertainty
INT. HA-19 – CONTINUOUS
The motor sputters, coughing like a dying animal. The lights
dim to almost nothing.
Without warning—
THWUMP!
The sub DROPS several feet as the buoyancy falters.
Inagaki grips the pipes overhead.
INAGAKI
We’re losing ballast control!
Sakamaki slams both palms against the ballast valve wheel and
cranks it with every ounce of strength.
The wheel barely moves.
SAKAMAKI
Come on… come on—
Sweat pours down his face. The valve finally gives — a heavy
metal CLUNK — and the sub stabilizes slightly.
Inagaki collapses back, trembling.
INAGAKI
(half-laugh, half-gasp)
If we live… remind me to thank you
for that.
Sakamaki forces breath through tightening lungs.
SAKAMAKI
We will live.
Inagaki looks at him, seeing the lie beneath the
determination.
INAGAKI
Or we won’t.
A beat — honesty, not defeat.
INAGAKI (CONT’D)
And if one of us goes…
(soft)
I hope it is me.
Sakamaki freezes.
SAKAMAKI
Don’t say that.
INAGAKI
You have a family.
A future.
Mine… mine was always the Navy.
Sakamaki grips the helm, jaw trembling.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
16 -
Chaos Beneath and Above
EXT. OAHU COAST – UNDERWATER (MOMENTS LATER)
The sea becomes shallower — coral shelves rising on both
sides like jagged teeth.
The HA-19 scrapes along one edge.
SKREEEEE—KRRRRK!
Metal grinds.
INT. HA-19 – SAME
The entire sub shakes.
Inagaki yelps — a hand flying to his forehead as he clips a
pipe.
INAGAKI
Ow— damn!
Sakamaki keeps the helm steady, eyes burning.
SAKAMAKI
Stay alert.
Inagaki wipes a small trickle of blood.
INAGAKI
You know…
(smiles through pain)
…you’re not very comforting.
Sakamaki stares forward, fighting claustrophobia.
SAKAMAKI
Comfort doesn’t save Japan.
EXT. PEARL HARBOR – DAWN
Columns of smoke. Flames. Battleships burning.
A torpedo ripples the surface as it streaks toward a cruiser.
The harbor is a vision of chaos.
Genres:
["War","Drama","Historical"]
Ratings
Scene
17 -
Descent into Darkness
INT. HA-19 – CONTINUOUS
Sakamaki checks the periscope — visibility poor, lens fogged.
SAKAMAKI
We need clear water.
Angle ten degrees starboard.
Inagaki reaches for the rudder lever — but his hand slips.
His eyes roll for a moment.
SAKAMAKI (CONT’D)
Inagaki!
He catches him before he collapses fully.
INAGAKI
(barely conscious)
Kazuo…
I… can’t…
He tries to breathe — but the air is thick, hot, poisoned.
Sakamaki grabs the oxygen mask and presses it to his face.
SAKAMAKI
Breathe.
Slow.
You hear me?
Inagaki draws in a weak breath.
Then another.
A little clarity returns to his eyes.
INAGAKI
Kazuo… if we die…
(barely audible)
…promise me you’ll forgive
yourself.
Sakamaki’s face tightens — pain, loyalty, fear all colliding.
SAKAMAKI
I’m not letting either of us die.
EXT. UNDERWATER – SAME
The HA-19 dips lower as its buoyancy falters again — barely
missing another jagged coral outcrop.
It’s struggling, limping forward.
Genres:
["War","Drama","Action"]
Ratings
Scene
18 -
Descent into Darkness
INT. HA-19 – CONTINUOUS
Suddenly—
ALL LIGHTS GO OUT.
Total darkness.
Inagaki gasps.
INAGAKI
No… no, no—
Sakamaki gropes for the emergency switch.
He flips it.
Nothing.
Silence.
Just their breathing — strained, frantic.
SAKAMAKI
Emergency motor’s dead.
INAGAKI
So we’re—
(voice breaks)
—we’re adrift.
Sakamaki closes his eyes — a tremor of despair passes through
him.
Then he opens them — steel returning.
SAKAMAKI
We surface.
Take in air.
Restart what we can.
Inagaki’s eyes widen — shock, dread.
INAGAKI
Kazuo…
If we surface now—
They’ll see us instantly.
SAKAMAKI
Better seen than dead.
INAGAKI
The mission—
SAKAMAKI
(quiet, final)
The mission is already lost if we
die here.
A beat.
Inagaki exhales, accepting the truth neither wanted to face.
INAGAKI
Then… surface.
Sakamaki reaches for the ballast release lever.
His hand shakes — the weight of the decision crushing him.
He whispers:
SAKAMAKI
Forgive me, Inagaki.
He pulls the lever—
Genres:
["War","Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
19 -
Emergence at Dawn
EXT. OCEAN SURFACE – DAWN
The HA-19 BREAKS THE SURFACE, gasping like a wounded animal.
Its hatch cracks. A hiss of foul air escapes into the morning
light.
Below, the sun rises over a burning Pearl Harbor.
EXT. OCEAN SURFACE – CONTINUOUS (MID-PAGE 25)
The HA-19 bobs violently in the choppy morning waves.
A foul CLOUD OF FUMES rushes from the cracked hatch.
Sakamaki shoves the hatch farther open, coughing hard.
SAKAMAKI
(breathing fresh air)
Inagaki— breathe. Deep.
Inagaki drags himself upward, sucking in the clean air with
trembling desperation.
His eyes water from the sudden oxygen rush.
INAGAKI
(choking on breath)
Feels… like ice…
Good ice…
Sakamaki scans the horizon — smoke pillars rise miles away
over Oahu.
A distant U.S. patrol boat changes course.
SAKAMAKI
They may have spotted us.
He slams the hatch closed.
Genres:
["War","Drama","Action"]
Ratings
Scene
20 -
Silent Drift
INT. HA-19 – MOMENTS LATER
Now refilled with air — but still soaked in fumes and heat.
Sakamaki grabs the emergency starter crank.
INAGAKI
Kazuo— don’t overdo it. The coils—
SAKAMAKI
We have no choice.
He braces his feet… and CRANKS.
The motor coughs.
Sparks.
Then silence.
Inagaki closes his eyes — despair flickering beneath
discipline.
Sakamaki refuses defeat.
He cranks again — harder.
A low sputter.
A faint hum.
The engine STRAINS… but then—
BANG!
A sharp pop — a fuse BLOWS.
The cabin plunges into near-darkness.
Inagaki flinches at the sound.
INAGAKI
(quiet)
That… that was our last coil.
Sakamaki grips the wall as if it might anchor him against the
truth.
SAKAMAKI
Then we run silent and drift.
With the tide.
Inagaki nods, swallowing dread.
Genres:
["War","Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
21 -
Drifting Desperation
EXT. OAHU COAST – UNDERWATER (LATER)
The HA-19 sinks back beneath the surface — powerless,
drifting wherever the current pulls it.
It tilts slightly to starboard… unstable… wounded.
INT. HA-19 – CONTINUOUS
Dim emergency lights glow like dying embers.
The fumes return fast.
Inagaki coughs violently.
INAGAKI
(hard cough)
Kazuo… I can’t—
Breathe…
Sakamaki grabs the remaining oxygen mask and presses it to
his face again.
SAKAMAKI
Stay with me.
Just… stay.
Inagaki grips his wrist.
INAGAKI
(shaky)
If I pass out…
You keep going.
You understand?
Sakamaki doesn’t answer.
Instead, he checks the navigation chart — smudged with
condensation.
His hands shake.
SAKAMAKI
(soft, almost to himself)
We are… off the channel.
Too far south.
Inagaki forces his eyes open.
INAGAKI
Then… we try again.
Sakamaki shakes his head — small, helpless.
SAKAMAKI
We have no propulsion.
The tide decides our fate now.
Inagaki lowers his head.
The sub CREAKS — metal straining under pressure.
EXT. UNDERWATER – CONTINUOUS
The HA-19 drifts aimlessly toward a shallow reef shelf.
A coral outcrop looms in the murk.
Genres:
["War","Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
22 -
Final Descent
INT. HA-19 – SAME
KRRRRRRRK— SKREEEECH!
The sub SLAMS against coral — tilting sharply.
Inagaki falls sideways, hitting the controls.
Sakamaki grabs him.
SAKAMAKI
Hold on!
Another scrape — deeper — like metal being peeled away.
The lights flicker again.
INAGAKI
(weak)
We’re… running aground.
SAKAMAKI
We’re not giving up!
He climbs over Inagaki, forcing the emergency ballast lever
again — using his entire body weight.
The lever will not budge.
Inagaki watches him — sorrow and admiration mixing in his
fading eyes.
INAGAKI
Kazuo…
(soft)
You did everything you could.
Sakamaki ignores him — muscles trembling — tears forming.
He SLAMS the lever with his fist—
SNAP!
The lever breaks off in his hand.
He stares at it… stunned… broken.
Inagaki whispers:
INAGAKI
I’m glad…
(weak smile)
…that I served with you.
Sakamaki’s breath shakes.
SAKAMAKI
(through clenched teeth)
No…
No, not like this.
Inagaki sways — eyes rolling upward.
INAGAKI
Kazuo…
Forgive yourself.
His head drops.
Sakamaki catches him — shaking him — desperate.
SAKAMAKI
Inagaki!
Inagaki—!!
But Inagaki’s body goes limp.
Sakamaki pulls him close, trembling, sobbing despite himself.
The sub tilts further — grinding against the reef.
EXT. NEAR WAIMANALO SHORE – DAWN
The crippled HA-19 breaks the surface — dragged by the tide,
battered and half-submerged.
It drifts toward the shoreline like a wounded creature.
Palm trees sway in the distance.
American soldiers gather on the beach — rifles raised —
unsure of what they’re seeing.
INT. HA-19 – CONTINUOUS
Sakamaki wipes his eyes and looks around the ruined cabin.
He touches the netsuke charm — a final goodbye.
He whispers:
SAKAMAKI
Forgive me… brother.
Then, with trembling hands, he prepares to surrender — the
choice that will define his entire life.
He climbs toward the hatch.
Light pours in.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
23 -
The First Surrender
EXT. NEAR WAIMANALO SHORE – DAWN (MID-PAGE 30)
The crippled HA-19 lists sharply as it drifts toward the
shallows.
Sakamaki pushes open the hatch — sunlight blasting into the
cramped sub.
He gasps at the brightness. At the freedom. At the shame.
He climbs onto the hull, wavering — dizzy, weak — and raises
both hands.
SAKAMAKI
(shouting, faint)
I… surrender!
I surrender!
U.S. SOLDIERS on the beach freeze — unsure of what they’re
seeing.
One soldier, PRIVATE HENDERSON (19), lowers his rifle slowly.
HENDERSON
Is that… a Jap?
Another PRIVATE elbows him.
PRIVATE #2
What the hell kinda boat is that?
A SERGEANT steps forward, rifle drawn but cautious.
SERGEANT
Keep your hands where we can see
’em!
Move slow!
Sakamaki stumbles off the hull — collapsing into waist-deep
surf.
He lies there, chest heaving.
The soldiers rush in, surrounding him.
Henderson grabs his arm, pulling him upright.
He blinks at Sakamaki’s face — shocked by how young he is.
HENDERSON
(under breath)
Geez. He’s just a kid.
EXT. BEACH – MOMENTS LATER
Sakamaki is dragged onto the sand, coughing seawater. His
uniform is soaked, mud-streaked, his dignity shredded.
The soldiers frisk him with urgent, nervous hands.
A CAPTAIN hurries in.
CAPTAIN
Anyone else on that… craft?
Henderson glances back at the damaged hatch.
HENDERSON
Sir, looks like only one made it
out.
Sakamaki hears that — looks away, eyes filling.
EXT. WAIMANALO BEACH – CONTINUOUS
Two soldiers approach the sub, rifles raised.
One peers into the hatch — recoils at the sight of Inagaki’s
still form.
SOLDIER #1
Sir… there’s a deceased second man
inside.
Sakamaki bows his head, grief breaking through the shock.
The Captain studies him — surprised, even moved by the
display.
EXT. BEACH – LATER
Sakamaki is marched away, hands tied in front. Villagers and
civilians gather at a distance, pointing, murmuring.
A boy whispers:
BOY
That’s the first enemy soldier
caught today.
WOMAN
First in the whole war, they say.
Sakamaki hears every word — each one a dagger.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
24 -
A Moment of Humanity
INT. MAKESHIFT HOLDING ROOM – PEARL HARBOR BASE – MORNING
A small wooden office turned temporary interrogation cell.
Sakamaki sits on a metal chair, shivering beneath a blanket.
His face is pale from exhaustion, fumes, and heartbreak.
The door opens.
LT. COMMANDER WILLIAM ANDERSON, 40s, stern but perceptive,
enters with a notepad.
He studies Sakamaki with clinical interest.
ANDERSON
You were found inside that… mini-
submarine.
(beat)
Name?
Sakamaki bows slightly — even in captivity, discipline
remains.
SAKAMAKI
Ensign Kazuo Sakamaki.
Imperial Japanese Navy.
Anderson nods — expecting defiance, but sensing sincerity.
ANDERSON
We found another sailor aboard.
Your… companion.
Sakamaki swallows slowly — grief tightening his throat.
SAKAMAKI
Petty Officer Second Class Kiyoshi
Inagaki.
He… he died with honor.
Anderson observes the emotion — surprised by its depth.
ANDERSON
I’m sorry for your loss.
Sakamaki lifts his eyes — confused. Apologies from the enemy
were not something he was trained to expect.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
25 -
A Moment of Reflection
INT. HOLDING ROOM – MOMENTS LATER
Anderson sits across from him.
ANDERSON
What was your objective?
Sakamaki looks down at his hands — bound loosely,
respectfully.
SAKAMAKI
To enter Pearl Harbor…
and strike battleships.
ANDERSON
Did you fire a torpedo?
Sakamaki hesitates — wrestling honor vs. dishonor.
SAKAMAKI
No.
Our craft was damaged on entry.
Anderson scribbles, then looks up — softening his tone.
ANDERSON
You’re lucky to be alive, Ensign.
Sakamaki almost laughs — but it comes out broken.
SAKAMAKI
No.
It is not luck. It is shame.
Anderson studies him — really sees him now.
ANDERSON
Why shame?
Sakamaki doesn’t answer. Instead, his eyes drift to the
corner — far away, drowning in the memory of Inagaki dying in
his arms.
INT. HOLDING ROOM – CONTINUOUS
Sakamaki whispers — almost to himself.
SAKAMAKI
I failed him.
I failed Japan.
Anderson leans back, absorbing it — the weight of a patriot
questioning his own worth.
ANDERSON
Survival isn’t failure.
It’s chance.
A chance to decide who you become next.
Sakamaki raises his eyes — the words hitting deeper than
Anderson realizes.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
26 -
The Weight of Surrender
INT. HOLDING ROOM – CONTINUOUS (3/4 INTO PAGE 34)
Sakamaki sits alone now. Hands folded. Eyes hollow.
The silence is heavier than any chains.
Through the window he hears distant alarms, boots rushing by,
shouted commands. The world is at war.
The door opens again.
Lt. Commander Anderson re-enters — this time with another
officer: LT. HENRY REEVES, Naval Intelligence, sharp-eyed,
early 30s.
Reeves sits across from Sakamaki, studying him with
analytical coldness.
REEVES
Ensign Sakamaki…
We know your country sent several of these submersibles. Tell
me — how many?
Sakamaki stares downward. No defiance — only numbness.
SAKAMAKI
I do not know.
Reeves leans in.
REEVES
But you trained with a unit.
You deployed from a mothership. You must have seen others.
Sakamaki shakes his head slowly.
SAKAMAKI
We were separated by miles.
Only mission orders… no numbers.
Reeves exchanges a glance with Anderson — disappointed but
not surprised.
REEVES
Your boat carried two torpedoes.
Were your targets the battleships at anchor?
Sakamaki struggles — honor vs. anguish — then nods.
SAKAMAKI
Yes.
Reeves writes but doesn’t look away from him.
REEVES
Why did you surrender?
Sakamaki’s breath catches.
SAKAMAKI
(quietly)
Because my comrade died.
And I… could not follow.
Reeves misreads this as guilt or reluctance.
REEVES
You’re saying you chose life.
SAKAMAKI
No.
(beat)
Life chose me.
Reeves closes his notebook — impatient.
REEVES
What you did today saved American
lives.
Your craft never reached the harbor.
That hits Sakamaki like a spear.
He bows his head in humiliation.
SAKAMAKI
I know.
Reeves stands abruptly.
REEVES
We’re done here for now.
He exits.
Anderson remains.
Genres:
["War","Drama","Historical"]
Ratings
Scene
27 -
Cultural Burden
INT. HOLDING ROOM – CONTINUOUS
Anderson approaches him, softer.
ANDERSON
You carried your friend out of
hell.
That wasn’t cowardice.
Sakamaki shakes — the words cutting deep.
SAKAMAKI
In Japan, surrender is cowardice.
To live when others die… is a weight heavier than the sea.
Anderson sits across from him.
ANDERSON
You’re the first Japanese POW in
this war.
Sakamaki blinks — shock, disbelief.
SAKAMAKI
I… am the first?
ANDERSON
The very first.
Some of my men don’t even know how to classify you yet.
Sakamaki’s breath trembles.
SAKAMAKI
(whispers)
Then I have shamed my Emperor more
than any man alive.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
28 -
Captured in Shame
EXT. DETENTION YARD – LATER THAT MORNING
A fenced-off outdoor area. Sakamaki is escorted by two guards
for fresh air.
He walks slowly, shakily — still weakened by fumes.
Nearby, sailors stare, whispering among themselves:
SAILOR #1
That’s him. The sub guy.
SAILOR #2
First prisoner they caught.
SAILOR #3
Damn… he looks half-dead.
The guards begin to lead him back inside when a NAVY
PHOTOGRAPHER arrives with orders.
PHOTOGRAPHER
Stand him there. Need official
documentation.
The guards position Sakamaki stiffly.
The photographer raises his camera.
PHOTOGRAPHER (CONT’D)
Hold still.
FLASH!
The bulb pops bright white.
Sakamaki flinches — not from pain, but from shame.
He collapses to his knees in the dirt.
The guards exchange worried glances.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
29 -
A Second Chance
INT. HOLDING ROOM – AFTERNOON
Sakamaki sits wrapped in a blanket again, trembling. Anderson
enters with a paper in hand.
He hesitates — this will hurt.
ANDERSON
Ensign…
We received translated radio traffic from Tokyo.
Sakamaki stiffens.
ANDERSON (CONT’D)
Your Navy announced that all who
participated in the special attack
on Pearl Harbor…
are considered fallen heroes.
Sakamaki nods — a faint, bitter smile.
SAKAMAKI
Then they honor Inagaki.
ANDERSON
(soft)
They also declared…
that any who survived… brought shame to the nation.
A long silence.
Sakamaki breaks. Quietly. A single tear falls.
SAKAMAKI
My mother…
My father… They will hear this.
Anderson sets the paper down gently.
ANDERSON
You’re a sailor who survived the
impossible.
That isn’t shame, Ensign. That’s… providence.
Sakamaki looks up — the first spark of identity beyond
loyalty.
SAKAMAKI
(hoarse)
What am I… now?
Anderson holds his gaze.
ANDERSON
A man with a second chance.
The words land deeply — a seed planted.
A future Sakamaki never imagined now opens like a distant,
fragile horizon.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
30 -
Moments of Connection
INT. HOLDING ROOM – CONTINUOUS (3/4 INTO PAGE 39)
Sakamaki sits motionless, Anderson’s words echoing:
“A man with a second chance.”
He stares down at his hands — the same hands that steered HA-
19, that held Inagaki as he died.
His breath trembles.
The door clicks open softly.
A young CORPSMAN steps in with water and a small tray of
food. Nervous. Unsure.
He sets the tray down, avoiding eye contact.
CORPSMAN
(mutters)
Here you go.
He turns to leave.
Sakamaki forces out a whisper:
SAKAMAKI
Thank you.
The Corpsman freezes — surprised.
He looks back at Sakamaki with hesitant curiosity.
Then nods… almost respectfully.
He exits.
Sakamaki watches the door, absorbing the small but profound
human gesture.
INT. HOLDING ROOM – MINUTES LATER
He picks up the canteen of water.
His reflection ripples in the metal — distorted,
unrecognizable.
He whispers to it, to himself:
SAKAMAKI
If I am not a warrior…
then who am I?
EXT. DETENTION YARD – NEXT MORNING
Sakamaki is escorted outside again.
His posture is straighter — still exhausted, but no longer
hollow.
American sailors pause as he passes.
Some stare with hostility.
Others with curiosity.
A few with empathy.
Henderson — the young private from the beach — gives him a
quiet nod.
Sakamaki returns it.
It is small, but monumental.
Genres:
["War Drama","Historical"]
Ratings
Scene
31 -
A Desire to Live
INT. INTERROGATION ROOM – LATER
Reeves and Anderson stand over a map. Mini-sub tracks.
Approaches. Depth charts.
Sakamaki sits across from them, attentive, respectful.
Reeves’ tone is clipped.
REEVES
Your device.
It carried experimental gyroscopes?
Electric propulsion?
Explain its endurance.
Sakamaki inhales — steady.
SAKAMAKI
The Type A submarine had two
electric motors.
Battery-powered.
Cramped.
Unforgiving.
REEVES
Your oxygen failure — was that
design or mismanagement?
A flash of pain crosses Sakamaki’s face.
SAKAMAKI
Design.
It was… (chooses words) …never meant for return journeys.
Reeves writes rapidly, eyes sharp.
REEVES
So it was a suicide craft.
Silence.
Sakamaki bows his head.
SAKAMAKI
If successful, we were not expected
to return.
Anderson watches him — feeling the moral weight of that
truth.
ANDERSON
(quiet)
You volunteered for that?
Sakamaki hesitates — then speaks with vulnerability, not
propaganda.
SAKAMAKI
I was taught that sacrifice was the
highest honor.
To give one’s life for the Emperor… was the purest form of
duty.
He glances up — eyes weary.
SAKAMAKI (CONT’D)
Now I see…
life is also a duty.
Reeves pauses — unexpectedly moved.
Then straightens, refusing to show softness.
REEVES
That’s enough for now.
He exits briskly.
Anderson remains.
INT. INTERROGATION ROOM – CONTINUOUS
Anderson stands beside Sakamaki.
ANDERSON
Did you ever… want to die for your
country?
Sakamaki considers deeply.
SAKAMAKI
I wanted to serve.
If death was required…
I accepted it.
Anderson nods, absorbing that.
ANDERSON
And now?
A long beat.
Sakamaki looks toward the window — sunlight spilling in.
SAKAMAKI
Now…
I want to live.
So I may honor my friend by living well.
This hits Anderson harder than he expected.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
32 -
Shame and Redemption
EXT. PRISONER COMPOUND – AFTERNOON
A temporary stockade erected for early-war POWs.
Japanese soldiers, sailors, and laborers captured from
scattered Pacific skirmishes occupy the space.
Most are silent.
Shell-shocked.
Fearful.
As Sakamaki is led inside, whispers ripple:
POW #1
That’s him.
The one from Pearl.
POW #2
They say he surrendered.
POW #3
Shameful.
Others look at him with pity.
A few with hatred.
Sakamaki feels their judgment like knives.
He bows his head.
INT. POW BARRACKS – LATER
A dim, cleared-out warehouse used as makeshift sleeping
quarters.
Sakamaki is assigned a small cot.
He sits slowly, sensing eyes on him.
A fellow POW, SERGEANT YAMADA, early 30s, disciplined but
exhausted, approaches.
His expression is hard — not unkind, but unforgiving.
YAMADA
You are Ensign Sakamaki.
Sakamaki nods.
SAKAMAKI
Yes.
Yamada studies him — measuring him.
YAMADA
They say you were captured alive.
That your comrade died.
That your boat failed.
Sakamaki bows.
SAKAMAKI
All true.
Yamada’s jaw tightens.
YAMADA
Do you feel shame?
Sakamaki breathes deeply.
SAKAMAKI
Yes.
Every moment.
Yamada softens — slightly.
YAMADA
Then you're not lost.
He sits beside Sakamaki.
YAMADA (CONT’D)
Honor can be reclaimed.
In time.
Through conduct.
Sakamaki absorbs this — a lifeline.
SAKAMAKI
Thank you.
Yamada nods.
YAMADA
Rest.
The war will be long.
He walks away.
Sakamaki watches him — realizing he still has his own
countrymen to face, win over, and transform alongside.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
33 -
A Letter Unsent
INT. POW BARRACKS – EVENING (MID-PAGE 45)
The dim barracks glow with a few hanging bulbs. Sakamaki sits
on his cot, staring at the wooden floorboards. Yamada watches
him from across the room.
After a moment, Yamada approaches again — slower this time,
more measured.
YAMADA
Ensign…
you have slept none.
Sakamaki shakes his head.
SAKAMAKI
There is… too much inside my
thoughts.
Yamada sits on the edge of the next cot.
YAMADA
Grief is allowed.
But grief is also a test.
Sakamaki looks up — exhausted, hurting.
SAKAMAKI
A test of what?
YAMADA
Whether it weakens you…
or sharpens you.
Sakamaki absorbs that — a truth he desperately wants to
believe.
INT. POW BARRACKS – LATER
Sakamaki holds a small pencil stub provided by the guards. He
begins writing on thin stationery:
“Mother… Father… forgive your son.”
He pauses. The words shake.
He tries again.
“Kiyoshi Inagaki died with honor. I held him as he…”
He stops — hand trembling.
Tears fall onto the paper.
He forces himself to resume.
“I must live with what I could not change.”
He folds the paper gently — reverently — as though it
contains a piece of his soul.
He hands it to a guard.
SAKAMAKI
Please…
make sure it reaches Japan.
The guard takes it with a sympathetic nod — but Sakamaki
doesn’t see the truth: the letter will never reach its
destination.
Genres:
["War Drama","Historical"]
Ratings
Scene
34 -
A Moment of Defense
EXT. PRISONER COMPOUND – NEXT MORNING
Sakamaki sweeps the yard as part of labor detail. A few POWs
avoid him. A few glare.
A trio of younger sailors whisper harshly.
SAILOR #1
He surrendered.
Coward.
SAILOR #2
Disgrace to the Emperor.
SAILOR #3
Should’ve drowned himself.
Yamada hears this. He approaches them with a calm yet
commanding presence.
YAMADA
Enough.
The sailors bristle.
SAILOR #1
Sergeant— he brought shame to us
all—
YAMADA
He lived through hell.
Respect that.
The young men fall silent — not convinced, but unwilling to
challenge Yamada.
Sakamaki watches this from a distance — surprised, moved.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
35 -
A Moment of Humanity
EXT. PRISONER COMPOUND – LATER
Sakamaki dumps a bucket of water and rinses tools. Anderson
approaches through the gate, accompanied by a guard.
Sakamaki straightens, unsure how to greet him.
Anderson offers a cordial nod.
ANDERSON
Ensign.
How are you holding up?
Sakamaki hesitates.
SAKAMAKI
I… do not know.
Anderson steps closer, lowering his voice.
ANDERSON
It takes time.
Grief has no uniform. No flag.
Sakamaki looks down — humility replacing shame.
SAKAMAKI
You speak… like a priest.
Anderson smiles faintly.
ANDERSON
I’ve seen too much war to speak
like anything else.
Sakamaki absorbs that. Then, cautiously:
SAKAMAKI
Why do you show me kindness?
Anderson looks him in the eyes.
ANDERSON
Because you’re a man.
Not an enemy machine.
The words strike deeply — shaking the last remnants of
indoctrination.
INT. PRISONER MEDICAL TENT – AFTERNOON
Sakamaki sits as a medic examines his lungs.
MEDIC
You’ve still got irritation from
the fumes.
But you’re healing.
Sakamaki nods faintly.
MEDIC (CONT’D)
Anything else you need?
Sakamaki thinks… then shakes his head.
SAKAMAKI
No.
Nothing but time.
The medic pats his shoulder — gentle, human — and leaves.
Sakamaki stares after him, realizing this: not everyone sees
him as the enemy.
Genres:
["War Drama","Historical"]
Ratings
Scene
36 -
Emerging Possibility
EXT. PRISONER COMPOUND – SUNSET
Sakamaki stands at the fence, looking toward distant
mountains.
Yamada approaches quietly.
YAMADA
You are changing.
Sakamaki turns.
SAKAMAKI
Am I?
YAMADA
Yes.
Your eyes no longer carry death.
A long beat.
SAKAMAKI
I do not know what they carry.
YAMADA
Possibility.
This word sits heavily with Sakamaki — but not painfully.
Hope, though faint, glows behind his grief.
INT. POW BARRACKS – NIGHT
Most prisoners sleep. Sakamaki lies awake, staring at the
rafters.
His breathing is slow, controlled.
He whispers to the darkness:
SAKAMAKI
Kiyoshi…
I am still here. I do not know why. But I will try… to make
it mean something.
He closes his eyes — not in grief now, but in resolve.
The seed planted by Anderson begins to grow.
Genres:
["War Drama","Historical"]
Ratings
Scene
37 -
Echoes of the Past
EXT. PRISONER COMPOUND – LATE AFTERNOON (2 LINES INTO PAGE
50)
Sakamaki scrubs a metal wash basin alongside the other POWs.
His breathing is steadier, though the exhaustion never fully
leaves.
A sudden RUMBLE cuts through the yard.
Engines. Trucks.
POWs turn their heads.
Yamada frowns.
YAMADA
Something is coming.
Guards open the gate as TWO NAVAL FLATBED TRUCKS roll in.
American sailors direct them toward an open clearing.
On the back of the lead truck sits a twisted, battered iron
shape…
The wreck of the HA-19.
Bent. Scorched.
Its hull scraped raw by coral.
A ghost of its former purpose.
Sakamaki freezes.
His bucket slips from his hands and clatters to the dirt.
EXT. CLEARING – CONTINUOUS
The guards escort a few POWs — including Sakamaki — to help
unload the cargo.
One guard gestures.
GUARD
You. Him. And you — give ’em space.
Watch the hull.
Sakamaki steps forward, transfixed.
He approaches the truck like a man approaching a grave.
YAMADA
(softly)
Ensign… you don’t have to—
But Sakamaki places a hand on the cold, ruined steel.
The sound of the war returns in his mind.
The fumes.
The darkness.
Inagaki’s last breath.
His fingers tremble.
SAKAMAKI
(whispers)
Kiyoshi…
We made it to shore… but not as we intended.
Yamada watches him — seeing the weight he carries.
The guards begin fastening chains to hoist the sub fragment
off the flatbed.
One American sailor, PARKER (20s), notices Sakamaki’s stare.
PARKER
That thing nearly killed us all.
Hell of a machine.
He doesn’t say it with malice — more awe.
Sakamaki responds quietly.
SAKAMAKI
It was never a machine.
It was… a coffin we sailed willingly.
Parker looks at him differently now — with respect.
EXT. CLEARING – MOMENTS LATER
As the Americans winch the hull down, one of the younger POWs
— the angry SAILOR #2 from earlier — mutters:
SAILOR #2
You surrender…
and now you honor the wreck like it is a shrine?
Sakamaki remains calm.
SAKAMAKI
It carried my friend’s body.
It deserves respect.
The sailor steps forward aggressively.
SAILOR #2
You’re a disgrace.
A living ghost.
You should have died in there too.
Yamada intercepts him — firm.
YAMADA
Enough!
A tense silence.
The sailor backs down, resentful.
Sakamaki stands still, absorbing the blow without
retaliation.
Yamada looks at him with renewed admiration.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
38 -
Reflections at Dusk
EXT. PRISONER COMPOUND – DUSK
The sub’s broken hull now rests on wooden supports.
American engineers study it.
Photographers take pictures.
Sakamaki watches them from inside the fence.
Anderson approaches quietly.
ANDERSON
I thought you’d want to see it.
Sakamaki nods — never taking his eyes off the wreck.
SAKAMAKI
Thank you.
Anderson folds his arms.
ANDERSON
We’ll be dismantling it.
Learning from it.
Sakamaki swallows — a mix of grief and acceptance.
SAKAMAKI
Then let it serve a purpose.
It… never fulfilled ours.
Anderson studies him — the composure, the humility.
ANDERSON
You speak like someone who’s
beginning to understand both sides
of this war.
A long beat.
SAKAMAKI
I only understand loss.
And how it shapes men.
Anderson looks at him with genuine respect.
ANDERSON
And how it changes them.
Sakamaki finally turns away from the wreck — but not in
shame.
In peace.
Genres:
["War Drama","Historical"]
Ratings
Scene
39 -
Finding Peace in the Night
INT. POW BARRACKS – NIGHT
Sakamaki sits on his cot.
Yamada sits across from him.
YAMADA
You handled yourself with honor
today.
Sakamaki shakes his head.
SAKAMAKI
I am trying…
but I do not know the path.
YAMADA
None of us do.
We walk it one day at a time.
Sakamaki exhales — a small, honest release of tension.
SAKAMAKI
When I touched the hull…
I felt as though I was touching my past.
And letting it go.
Yamada nods slowly.
YAMADA
Then perhaps you are ahead of the
rest of us.
Sakamaki lies back — tired, but not defeated.
EXT. PRISONER COMPOUND – LATE NIGHT
The camp sleeps.
Sakamaki stands alone at the fence, staring at the moonlit
ocean.
He touches the netsuke charm still hidden in his pocket.
He whispers:
SAKAMAKI
Kiyoshi…
I will carry your memory.
But I will walk forward.
He closes his eyes — the first moment of genuine inner quiet
since the attack.
Genres:
["War Drama","Historical"]
Ratings
Scene
40 -
Dawn of Conflict
INT. POW BARRACKS – DAWN (PAGE 55)
The early light filters in through slatted windows.
POWs stir awake.
Sakamaki sits upright already — unable to sleep.
Yamada notices.
YAMADA
Another sleepless night?
Sakamaki nods softly.
SAKAMAKI
My mind does not rest.
It replays everything.
Yamada sits on the cot next to him — a quiet show of
solidarity.
YAMADA
The mind heals slower than the
body.
Give it time.
Sakamaki tries to smile — a humble attempt.
A whistle blows outside.
EXT. PRISONER COMPOUND – MORNING
POWs line up for roll call.
American guards stand watch.
A young POW — SAILOR #2 — stares daggers at Sakamaki.
His anger hasn’t cooled.
During the morning labor assignment, Sakamaki carries a crate
of supply tools toward the fence line.
Sailor #2 approaches, blocking his path.
SAILOR #2
You dishonor us every time you
breathe.
Sakamaki keeps his eyes steady — calm.
SAKAMAKI
I lived.
And that shames you.
Sailor #2 steps closer, fists tightening.
SAILOR #2
We swore an oath.
Better to die than be taken.
Sakamaki breathes in, slow and controlled.
SAKAMAKI
I know the oath.
But I also know my friend died in agony.
Would you have me throw away the chance to honor him by
living well?
Sailor #2 scoffs.
SAILOR #2
You sound like them.
He jerks his chin toward the American guards.
Sakamaki doesn’t react.
SAKAMAKI
No.
I sound like someone who has seen death… and does not wish to
waste life.
This catches Sailor #2 off guard — the conviction in
Sakamaki’s voice unexpected.
Before he can respond, Yamada steps between them.
YAMADA
Enough!
We fight the enemy, not each other.
Sailor #2 backs off reluctantly, but throws Sakamaki one last
hateful look.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
41 -
A Moral Dilemma
INT. ADMINISTRATION OFFICE – SAME MORNING
Anderson and Reeves stand over a file with Sakamaki’s
information.
REEVES
We can’t treat him like a typical
POW.
He’s too valuable — psychologically and mechanically.
ANDERSON
He’s not a spy. He’s a soldier who
survived something nobody should’ve
survived.
Reeves closes the file.
REEVES
We send him to a mainland POW camp.
Arizona or Texas.
Someplace secure.
Anderson glances toward the window — distant view of the
compound.
ANDERSON
Make sure he gets humane handling.
He earned that.
Reeves raises an eyebrow.
REEVES
You’re unusually invested in him,
Commander.
ANDERSON
(sincere)
Because I think he can change.
And because someday, men like him might help end this war.
Reeves considers this but doesn’t answer.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
42 -
Questions of Duty and Honor
EXT. PRISONER COMPOUND – AFTERNOON
Sakamaki is repairing crates with Yamada.
YAMADA
You spoke bravely today.
To the young sailor.
SAKAMAKI
It was not bravery.
It was truth.
Yamada nods approvingly.
YAMADA
Truth is rare in war.
Sakamaki pauses — introspective.
SAKAMAKI
Do you ever question…
why we fight?
Yamada stiffens — shocked he would ask such a dangerous
question.
YAMADA
We fight because we are told to
fight.
Because duty demands it.
Sakamaki speaks softly.
SAKAMAKI
Duty… or obedience?
Yamada struggles — the question lands deeper than he lets on.
He walks away without answering.
INT. POW BARRACKS – SUNSET
Sakamaki sits alone on his cot, staring at the netsuke charm
in his hand.
He turns it over slowly — the engraved symbol worn by time.
He whispers:
SAKAMAKI
Father…
if honor requires death… why does my heart pull toward life?
His voice cracks.
SAKAMAKI (CONT’D)
Who am I… now?
The moment is intimate, raw, and transformative.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
43 -
A New Beginning
EXT. PRISONER COMPOUND – EVENING
A guard approaches.
GUARD
Ensign Sakamaki — you’re needed at
the office.
Sakamaki stands — uncertain.
INT. ADMINISTRATION OFFICE – EVENING
Anderson waits with paperwork on his desk.
ANDERSON
Ensign…
We’re transferring you to the mainland.
A POW camp in Texas.
Conditions will be better.
More structure.
More time to heal.
Sakamaki absorbs the news — overwhelmed, unsure.
SAKAMAKI
Will I… be alone?
ANDERSON
You’ll be with other prisoners.
But you’ll also have new opportunities.
Education.
Work details.
The chance to build a life… even in confinement.
Sakamaki breathes deeply — the closest thing to hope he’s
felt since the sub sank.
SAKAMAKI
Thank you, Commander.
For your kindness.
For seeing me… as more than a failure.
Anderson’s eyes soften.
ANDERSON
You’re not a failure, Ensign.
You’re a survivor.
There’s a difference.
This lands powerfully.
Genres:
["Drama","War"]
Ratings
Scene
44 -
A Farewell Under the Stars
EXT. PRISONER COMPOUND – NIGHT
Sakamaki steps outside, gazing upward at the stars.
His face is calm.
Centered.
Almost peaceful.
He whispers:
SAKAMAKI
Kiyoshi…
I will carry you forward.
Not in death…
but in life.
It’s the first time he truly believes it.
EXT. PRISONER COMPOUND – NIGHT (3/4 INTO PAGE 60)
Moonlight glints off the razor wire.
Sakamaki stands alone, hands folded behind him.
He breathes in the humid Hawaiian air — heavy with salt and
memories.
Footsteps approach.
Yamada emerges from the shadows.
YAMADA
You leave tomorrow.
Sakamaki nods.
SAKAMAKI
Yes.
YAMADA
Texas is far.
Different world.
SAKAMAKI
Perhaps distance will…
quiet the ghosts.
Yamada studies him — seeing the shift.
YAMADA
You have changed, Ensign.
Not weaker.
Not broken.
Different.
Sakamaki holds the netsuke charm tight in his hand.
SAKAMAKI
If change is dishonor…
then let dishonor be my path.
Yamada allows the faintest smile — more respect than
amusement.
YAMADA
Sleep well.
Tomorrow begins a new chapter… even for men like us.
He walks away.
Sakamaki looks up at the moon — breathing deeply — allowing
himself peace.
EXT. CLEARING – PRE-DAWN
The compound is quiet.
Sakamaki approaches the fenced-off area where the HA-19 wreck
sits under a tarp.
He stands before it — separated by a few feet of wire, but
connected by everything that has happened.
SAKAMAKI
(soft, reverent)
I leave you here, my friend.
Your duty ended.
Mine continues.
A single tear falls — but not from shame.
He bows deeply.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
45 -
Journey of Reflection
EXT. PRISONER COMPOUND GATE – MORNING
Guards gather POWs for transport.
Sakamaki is among them — carrying only a small canvas bag.
Sailor #2 glares at him as they walk.
SAILOR #2
You walk like a free man now.
Remember — you are not.
Sakamaki meets his gaze calmly.
SAKAMAKI
Freedom begins here.
(points to heart)
Even in chains.
This silences Sailor #2 — confused, unsettled by the shift.
Yamada steps beside Sakamaki.
YAMADA
Ignore him.
Men fear what they cannot understand.
Sakamaki nods.
EXT. HARBOR DOCK – LATER
The POWs are marched toward a troop transport ship.
American sailors watch them board.
One recognizes Sakamaki — PARKER, the one who helped unload
the wreck.
He offers a subtle nod.
Sakamaki returns it — respectful.
INT. TROOP TRANSPORT SHIP – HOLD – DAY
Rows of folding bunks.
Bare metal walls.
Harsh overhead lights.
Sakamaki settles into a lower bunk.
The ship’s engines rumble beneath them.
Yamada sits across from him.
YAMADA
Ever been to America?
SAKAMAKI
Never.
YAMADA
Then see it with open eyes.
Not as an enemy… but as a student.
Sakamaki considers this — the idea foreign but not unwelcome.
SAKAMAKI
Perhaps the world is larger than I
believed.
YAMADA
It always is.
The ship’s horn BLARES.
The voyage begins.
EXT. PACIFIC OCEAN – MONTAGE
— The ship cutting through vast blue horizon.
— POWs standing on deck under guard, staring at endless
waves.
— Sakamaki running his fingers along the netsuke charm,
reflecting.
— American sailors watching them with curiosity rather than
hatred.
— The Hawaiian Islands fading behind the ship.
— Sakamaki alone at the railing, wind in his face, breathing
deeply.
A sense of transformation grows with each mile.
INT. TROOP TRANSPORT SHIP – NIGHT
Sakamaki lies awake in his bunk — eyes open.
Yamada sleeps above him.
Sakamaki whispers to the dark:
SAKAMAKI
If living is my duty now…
then let me learn to live with purpose.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
46 -
A New World: Sakamaki's Arrival
EXT. GALVESTON PORT – DAY (TEXAS)
Fog clings to the harbor.
The transport ship pulls in.
Armed guards direct POWs down the gangplank.
Sakamaki steps onto American soil for the first time — tense,
uncertain, but composed.
EXT. POW TRUCK CONVOY – TEXAS – DAY
POWs are loaded into olive military trucks with canvas
covers.
Sakamaki sits beside Yamada, peering out at the strange
landscape — wide fields, rail lines, distant water towers.
EXT. TEXAS POW CAMP – AFTERNOON
A sprawling facility with barbed wire, guard towers, and rows
of barracks.
American guards open truck doors.
POWs climb out.
Sakamaki steps onto the dusty ground — feels the heat, the
unfamiliarity.
A CAMP OFFICER approaches.
CAMP OFFICER
All Japanese prisoners to Barracks
Five!
Move along!
Yamada nudges Sakamaki.
YAMADA
Welcome to our new world.
INT. BARRACKS FIVE – MOMENTS LATER
Sakamaki enters — the space is brighter, less cramped, but
still militarily stark.
A few POWs from earlier stare at him — uncertainty in their
eyes.
One bows slightly.
Another avoids him.
Sakamaki sets his bag down, looking around.
He feels the shift — the old world gone, the new one forming
around him.
A quiet beat.
He whispers to himself:
SAKAMAKI
I will not waste this life.
He stands straighter — a man embracing his transformation.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
47 -
A Quiet Understanding
INT. BARRACKS FIVE – NIGHT (3/4 INTO PAGE 65)
Most POWs sleep.
Sakamaki sits quietly with a small English primer booklet
given by the guards.
He sounds out the words under his breath:
SAKAMAKI
“…peace… hope… tomorrow.”
A soft rustle — Yamada approaches.
YAMADA
You study their language now?
Sakamaki closes the booklet gently.
SAKAMAKI
I study communication.
If I am to understand this world…
I must learn its words.
Yamada nods — cautious but supportive.
YAMADA
Wisdom comes from many sources.
Even from the enemy.
Sakamaki smiles slightly.
SAKAMAKI
Perhaps they are no longer my
enemy.
Not in the way I once believed.
This lands — quietly profound.
Genres:
["Drama","War"]
Ratings
Scene
48 -
Confrontation and Reflection
EXT. POW CAMP YARD – NEXT MORNING
Sakamaki and Yamada rake leaves near the barracks.
American guards supervise from a distance.
A few POWs — including the hostile SAILOR #2 — watch Sakamaki
with simmering resentment.
As Sakamaki dumps a pile of leaves into a bin, Sailor #2
steps in front of him.
SAILOR #2
Learning English now?
Joining their side completely?
Sakamaki remains calm.
SAKAMAKI
No side.
Only understanding.
This infuriates Sailor #2.
SAILOR #2
Understanding is weakness!
Submission!
He shoves Sakamaki’s shoulder.
Sakamaki steps back but does not retaliate.
SAKAMAKI
Violence will not restore honor.
Nor will hatred.
Sailor #2 lunges — but Yamada grabs him.
YAMADA
Enough!
You shame yourself.
Sailor #2 jerks free, pointing at Sakamaki.
SAILOR #2
He’s abandoned Japan!
He storms off.
Yamada turns to Sakamaki, concerned.
YAMADA
Be careful.
Some men cannot accept… change.
Sakamaki breathes steadily.
SAKAMAKI
Then I must accept it for them.
INT. CAMP CLASSROOM – AFTERNOON
A converted storage building with desks and chalkboards.
U.S. officers teach basic English and vocational skills.
Sakamaki sits near the front, concentrating earnestly.
The Instructor writes:
FREEDOM
CHOICE
FUTURE
Sakamaki writes each word
carefully.
His face shows something new: purpose.
He glances at the window — American flags flutter in the
distance.
His expression is thoughtful, not conflicted.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
49 -
Bonds of Survival
EXT. CAMP YARD – EVENING
Sakamaki helps repair a fence under guard supervision.
Corporal Henderson — the young man who first pulled him from
the surf in Hawaii — recognizes him.
HENDERSON
You’re the sub guy.
Didn’t think I’d see you again.
Sakamaki bows politely.
SAKAMAKI
Corporal Henderson.
You saved my life.
Henderson chuckles.
HENDERSON
Well… we kinda saved each other,
didn’t we?
Sakamaki processes that — surprised by the idea.
SAKAMAKI
Perhaps… yes.
An unexpected bond forms.
Henderson pats his shoulder before moving on.
INT. BARRACKS FIVE – LATE EVENING
Sakamaki sits with his English booklet again.
Yamada approaches.
YAMADA
You look… peaceful.
Sakamaki exhales — steady, centered.
SAKAMAKI
Peace is new to me.
But it feels… correct.
Yamada sits beside him.
YAMADA
You have walked a painful path,
Ensign.
Yet you rise each day with purpose.
That is strength.
Sakamaki looks down at his hands.
SAKAMAKI
War taught me duty.
But captivity… has taught me who I am.
A powerful beat.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
50 -
A Test of Loyalty
EXT. CAMP YARD – NEXT MORNING
Tension flares.
Sailor #2 confronts Sakamaki again — this time with two
others behind him.
SAILOR #2
Traitor.
Sakamaki stands straight — no fear.
SAKAMAKI
I am loyal to Japan.
But loyalty need not demand self-destruction.
Sailor #2 sneers.
SAILOR #2
You disgrace the fallen.
Especially your comrade.
This hits deep — but Sakamaki doesn’t break.
He steps forward, voice firm.
SAKAMAKI
Inagaki died with honor.
I honor him by living — not by throwing life away.
The other POWs react — surprised by the strength in
Sakamaki’s voice.
YAMADA
Enough!
Step back!
The confrontation dissolves, but something changes:
Sakamaki’s authority is quietly acknowledged for the first
time.
INT. CAMP INFIRMARY – AFTERNOON
Sakamaki volunteers to help distribute water and supplies to
sick POWs.
The CAMP MEDIC watches him closely.
MEDIC
You don’t have to do this.
Most guys just stick to themselves.
Sakamaki offers a warm, respectful smile.
SAKAMAKI
Helping others…
helps me.
The medic nods — impressed.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
51 -
Defending Comrades
EXT. CAMP FENCE – SUNSET
Sakamaki watches the sun dip behind barbed wire and distant
fields.
He touches his netsuke charm.
His voice calm. Clear. Resolved.
SAKAMAKI
Kiyoshi…
you died fulfilling duty.
Now I must define my own.
He breathes deeply — a man ready for the next part of his
life.
EXT. CAMP YARD – LATE AFTERNOON (MID-PAGE 71)
POWs break into groups as work details end. The Texas sun
hangs low, baking the dirt under their feet.
Sakamaki returns a rake to the toolshed when he hears raised
voices.
SHOUTS. STRAINED. ANGRY.
He turns.
A small cluster of POWs is forming a tight circle near the
barracks wall.
Yamada pushes through — alarmed.
Sakamaki follows.
Inside the circle, SAILOR #2 has cornered a frail POW, ABE,
22 — terrified, trembling.
Sailor #2 SMACKS Abe across the face.
SAILOR #2
You told the guards we were hiding
food.
You betrayed us!
Abe shakes violently.
ABE
I—I didn’t! I swear—
Sailor #2 raises his fist again.
Sakamaki steps forward.
SAKAMAKI
Enough!
The circle parts slightly — shocked that he would intervene.
Sailor #2 turns slowly, fury simmering.
SAILOR #2
You defend the weak now?
Or only those who bow to Americans?
Sakamaki steps calmly between them.
SAKAMAKI
He is our comrade.
Not our enemy.
Sailor #2 SNAPS, shoving him back.
SAILOR #2
You don’t get to speak of comrades!
You abandoned yours the moment you lived!
Gasps ripple through the crowd.
Sakamaki absorbs the blow — then the words — with remarkable
composure.
SAKAMAKI
I did not choose to live.
Life held on to me. Now I choose what to do with it.
Sailor #2 lunges, fist swinging—
Sakamaki sidesteps and catches the punch, twisting just
enough to neutralize it without hurting him.
The circle erupts in whispers — stunned.
Yamada steps beside Sakamaki, voice clear and commanding:
YAMADA
This ends NOW.
Sailor #2 tears free, humiliated, trembling with rage.
SAILOR #2
You’re both traitors.
You’ve forgotten our code!
Sakamaki steps forward — unwavering.
SAKAMAKI
I have not forgotten.
I have outgrown it.
Sailor #2 freezes — unable to respond — then storms away.
The circle slowly dissolves.
Yamada exhales.
YAMADA
You may have made yourself a
target.
Sakamaki watches Abe, who sobs quietly.
SAKAMAKI
Then let me be the target.
He deserves protection.
Yamada stares at him — proud, in awe.
Genres:
["War","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
52 -
A Moment of Humanity
INT. CAMP INFIRMARY – EVENING
Abe sits on a cot, shaken but safe.
Sakamaki hands him a cup of water.
Abe bows deeply.
ABE
Thank you, Ensign.
Thank you.
Sakamaki places a hand on his shoulder — gentle.
SAKAMAKI
Strength is not in striking others.
It is in knowing when not to.
Abe wipes his eyes — his first moment of hope in weeks.
A voice interrupts.
ANDERSON (O.S.)
Ensign Sakamaki.
Sakamaki turns as Anderson enters the infirmary, accompanied
by a guard.
ANDERSON (CONT’D)
I heard there was an incident.
Sakamaki nods once.
SAKAMAKI
I stopped it.
No one was seriously harmed.
Anderson studies him — deeply impressed.
ANDERSON
You risked yourself for another
prisoner.
For a man who isn’t your enemy… or your friend.
Sakamaki looks back at Abe — then at Anderson.
SAKAMAKI
Because he is human.
That is enough.
Anderson’s expression softens — unexpected admiration.
ANDERSON
Ensign…
You’re becoming someone remarkable.
Sakamaki lowers his eyes — humbled.
SAKAMAKI
I am only trying to do what is
right.
ANDERSON
That’s why it’s remarkable.
Genres:
["Drama","War"]
Ratings
Scene
53 -
A Night of Reflection and Resolve
EXT. CAMP YARD – NIGHT
The yard is lit by a few dim lamps. Sakamaki walks alone
under the vast Texas sky — a sky wider than anything he’s
known.
He stops near the fence, fingers brushing the barbed wire
lightly.
Yamada joins him.
YAMADA
You changed more than one man
today.
You changed the entire barracks.
Sakamaki considers this.
SAKAMAKI
If honor means cruelty…
If loyalty requires cruelty… Then I want no part of it.
Yamada nods — solemn, proud.
YAMADA
You speak like a man who has chosen
his path.
SAKAMAKI
I choose life.
And the duty to protect it.
A long pause.
Yamada bows — deeply — a rare gesture of respect.
YAMADA
Then perhaps…
you will lead us someday.
Sakamaki is taken aback.
SAKAMAKI
I am no leader.
YAMADA
Leaders rarely know they are
leaders
until others follow.
Sakamaki looks out at the stars — feeling, for the first
time, the quiet strength of purpose.
INT. BARRACKS FIVE – LATER
The barracks sleeps.
Except Sakamaki.
He sits on his cot, writing in a small journal provided by
the camp.
He writes slowly, deliberately:
“Honor is not death. Honor is the courage to change.”
A long beat.
He closes the journal gently.
Genres:
["Drama","War"]
Ratings
Scene
54 -
Dawn of Reflection
EXT. CAMP YARD – JUST BEFORE DAWN
Sakamaki stands alone in the early gray light, breathing
deeply.
He touches the netsuke charm.
SAKAMAKI
(soft)
Kiyoshi…
you died believing in duty. Now I live believing in peace.
The sky lightens — a soft orange glow.
A new day.
A new identity.
A new Sakamaki.
EXT. CAMP YARD – PRE-DAWN (3/4 INTO PAGE 76)
A soft mist hangs low over the Texas dirt.
Sakamaki stands alone, breathing in the cool air — centered,
at peace.
The first rays of light creep over the horizon.
Yamada approaches from behind.
YAMADA
You rise early now.
Sakamaki nods, still watching the sunrise.
SAKAMAKI
Morning is… quiet.
Before the world remembers its pain.
Yamada studies him, noting the clarity in his posture, his
voice.
YAMADA
You speak like a monk.
Sakamaki lets out a faint smile.
SAKAMAKI
Perhaps suffering… is its own
monastery.
Yamada places a hand on his shoulder — respectful, sincere.
YAMADA
You have grown beyond this place.
Beyond this war.
Do not forget us, Ensign.
SAKAMAKI
I will not.
We are all prisoners… even if our fences look different.
This hits Yamada deeply.
They stand in silence, facing the sunrise.
Genres:
["Drama","War"]
Ratings
Scene
55 -
Tension in Captivity
INT. BARRACKS FIVE – MID-MORNING
Sakamaki sits at a wooden table with a pencil and fresh sheet
of paper.
He writes — slowly, deliberately.
“Father… Mother…
I am alive.
And for the first time, I understand what life truly means.”
He pauses.
His hand trembles — but only for a moment.
He continues.
“War taught me obedience.
Captivity has taught me wisdom.”
Sailor #2 watches him from a corner — seething.
EXT. CAMP YARD – LATER
American guards watch as POWs perform chores.
Sakamaki helps repair a wooden bench.
Corporal Henderson approaches.
HENDERSON
Got a minute, Kazuo?
Sakamaki puts down the tools and stands.
SAKAMAKI
Of course.
Henderson hands him a small envelope.
HENDERSON
Your request for more books came
through.
Library’s sending over language guides and… some philosophy
texts.
Sakamaki bows gratefully.
SAKAMAKI
Thank you, Corporal.
Henderson shrugs modestly.
HENDERSON
You’re working harder than half my
platoon.
Figured you earned it.
Sakamaki smiles — genuinely.
This small exchange is witnessed by several POWs… including
Sailor #2, who becomes visibly enraged.
Genres:
["Drama","War"]
Ratings
Scene
56 -
A Clash of Honor
EXT. CAMP LAUNDRY AREA – AFTERNOON
Sakamaki rinses uniforms in a basin.
Yamada works beside him.
Sailor #2 storms up, fists clenched.
SAILOR #2
I knew it!
You’re cozy with the Americans.
Begging for their books!
Sakamaki calmly wrings out a shirt.
SAKAMAKI
Education is not surrender.
Knowledge is not treason.
Sailor #2 shoves him hard.
SAILOR #2
You disgust me.
You spit on the Emperor!
Yamada steps in — fury erupting.
YAMADA
Enough!
The Emperor does not need martyrs who bully the weak!
Sailor #2 turns on Yamada.
SAILOR #2
And you — defender of traitors!
He swings.
CRACK!
His fist hits Yamada’s jaw.
Yamada reels.
Without hesitation—
Sakamaki steps in front of Yamada, arms raised protectively.
He speaks with thunder in his voice:
SAKAMAKI
STOP!
The sheer force of his tone freezes everyone.
SAKAMAKI (CONT’D)
War has taken enough from us.
Do not give it the rest of our humanity!
Silence.
Even Sailor #2 stops breathing for a moment.
Sakamaki holds his ground — unshakeable.
SAKAMAKI (CONT’D)
Honor is not cruelty.
Loyalty is not hatred.
And surviving is not shame.
Tears burn in Sailor #2’s eyes — from rage, confusion, pride
cracking under truth.
He backs away.
SAILOR #2
(voice trembling)
You are not the man you were.
Sakamaki steps forward — voice quiet, but devastating.
SAKAMAKI
No.
I am better.
Sailor #2 flees.
Yamada steadies himself, rubbing his jaw.
YAMADA
Ensign… that was courage.
SAKAMAKI
That was necessity.
If we destroy each other… the war wins twice.
Yamada nods — eyes full of respect.
Genres:
["Drama","War"]
Ratings
Scene
57 -
A Moment of Hope
INT. CAMP ADMINISTRATION OFFICE – EVENING
Commander Anderson reviews paperwork at his desk.
Sakamaki is ushered in by a guard.
Anderson looks up, smiling warmly.
ANDERSON
Kazuo.
What can I do for you?
Sakamaki bows deeply.
SAKAMAKI
Commander…
thank you for all you have taught me.
But I have one more request.
Anderson gestures for him to sit.
ANDERSON
Anything.
Sakamaki takes a breath — steady, resolute.
SAKAMAKI
I wish to speak.
To the other prisoners.
To share what I have learned.
Anderson smiles — impressed, proud.
ANDERSON
You want to help them move forward?
SAKAMAKI
I want to help them survive the
war…
and survive themselves.
Anderson nods slowly — recognizing the importance of this
moment.
ANDERSON
I’ll arrange it.
Sakamaki bows again — humbled.
Genres:
["Drama","War"]
Ratings
Scene
58 -
A New Honor
EXT. CAMP YARD – NIGHT
Sakamaki stands alone under a sky lit with stars.
He touches his netsuke charm — for the last time in the film.
SAKAMAKI
Kiyoshi…
I walked into war with death as my purpose.
Now I walk through captivity… with life as my duty.
He looks up — peaceful, grounded.
SAKAMAKI (CONT’D)
I will honor you…
by living well.
The wind shifts.
The camera holds on his face — strong, calm, illuminated by
moonlight.
A man reborn.
EXT. CAMP YARD – NEXT MORNING (3/4 INTO PAGE 82)
A crowd of POWs gathers in the center yard. Some skeptical.
Some curious. Some hopeful.
Yamada stands near the front.
American guards watch from a respectful distance.
Commander Anderson steps up beside Sakamaki.
ANDERSON
(to Sakamaki, quietly)
They’re here because they’re ready
to listen.
The rest is up to you.
Sakamaki bows gratefully, then steps forward.
A hush falls.
He looks at the faces — men broken, proud, scared, lost.
He breathes deeply.
SAKAMAKI
My brothers…
we entered this war believing honor was found only in death.
Murmurs ripple — truth, pain, recognition.
SAKAMAKI (CONT’D)
But I have learned…
that honor can also be found in living. In learning. In
changing.
Sailor #2 stands at the back, arms crossed, unsure.
Sakamaki continues, voice rising with conviction:
SAKAMAKI (CONT’D)
We are prisoners — yes.
But we are not defeated. We still choose who we become. Here.
Now. Every day.
POWs look at him — walls softening.
SAKAMAKI (CONT’D)
Our duty to Japan is not to die for
her…
but to return one day wiser. Kinder. Better.
A few POWs tear up.
Others bow their heads.
Even Sailor #2 falters.
Sakamaki’s voice softens:
SAKAMAKI (CONT’D)
My comrade, Kiyoshi Inagaki…
died believing that sacrifice was the only path.
His eyes glisten.
SAKAMAKI (CONT’D)
I honor him not by dying in shame…
but by living with purpose.
Absolute silence.
Then Yamada begins to clap. Slow. Firm.
Others join. Soon the entire yard applauds — raw, emotional,
unified.
Even Sailor #2 lowers his gaze… and claps once. Quietly.
Genuinely.
Sakamaki bows deeply — humbled.
Genres:
["Drama","War"]
Ratings
Scene
59 -
A Moment of Hope
EXT. CAMP YARD – AFTER THE SPEECH
Sakamaki walks with Anderson.
ANDERSON
That was extraordinary, Kazuo.
SAKAMAKI
I only spoke truth.
ANDERSON
Sometimes truth is the bravest
thing a man can speak.
Sakamaki smiles — small but real.
Anderson pauses, almost emotional.
ANDERSON (CONT’D)
For what it’s worth…
you changed more than these men today.
Sakamaki bows, deeply moved.
EXT. TEXAS POW CAMP – SUNSET
The POWs file back to their barracks. Sakamaki watches them —
hopeful, stronger.
Yamada approaches.
YAMADA
I was right.
You were meant to lead.
SAKAMAKI
I was meant to live.
They share a quiet, brotherly nod.
FADE TO BLACK
Ŕ TITLE: 30 YEARS LATER — 1971
Genres:
["Drama","War"]
Ratings
Scene
60 -
A Journey to Peace
EXT. TOKYO COMMUNITY CENTER – DAY
A banner draped across the building:
“PEACE THROUGH UNDERSTANDING: A LECTURE BY KAZUO SAKAMAKI”
A diverse crowd enters — students, veterans, families.
INT. COMMUNITY CENTER – AUDITORIUM – DAY
A modest stage. A lectern. A vase of simple white flowers.
Kazuo Sakamaki — now in his mid-50s — stands before the
audience.
He is calm. Poised. Gentle.
A man at peace.
He holds the same netsuke charm — now worn smooth with time.
SAKAMAKI (OLDER)
I was once trained to die for
honor.
But captivity taught me that honor lives wherever compassion
lives.
He smiles warmly at the crowd.
SAKAMAKI (OLDER) (CONT’D)
War gave me pain.
America gave me perspective. Life gave me a second chance.
He sees students leaning in — captivated.
SAKAMAKI (OLDER) (CONT’D)
And I learned…
that enemies can become teachers. Teachers become friends.
And peace… is the greatest victory of all.
The audience bursts into applause.
Sakamaki bows deeply — humble, grateful.
EXT. TOKYO COMMUNITY CENTER – DAY (AFTER THE SPEECH)
Sakamaki exits into a quiet garden behind the building.
He stands before a small koi pond.
Reaches into his pocket…
…and pulls out the netsuke charm — the last remnant of HA-19.
He gazes at it — memory flashing: The mini-sub. The fumes.
Inagaki’s last breath. Hawaii. The speech. The life he lived.
He whispers:
SAKAMAKI (OLDER)
Rest now, old friend.
He sets the netsuke gently on a stone by the water.
A symbol returned to peace.
EXT. TOKYO COAST – SUNSET
A breathtaking orange sky.
Waves crash softly on the rocks.
For a moment — in the shape of a distant wave crest —
—we glimpse the faint silhouette of a mini-sub beneath the
water, like a ghost from memory.
Then the wave breaks, dissolving the image.
Sakamaki steps into frame, watching the horizon.
At peace.
SAKAMAKI (OLDER)
(soft, final)
Life is the duty that never ends.
He closes his eyes.