Chinese Nationalists Criticize Hayao Miyazaki's WWII Film Amid Strained Sino-Japanese Ties

On April 21, 2024, Chinese nationalists criticize renowned Japanese filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki's latest World War II film, "The Boy and the Heron," for what they perceived as insufficient reflection on Japan's war history. The criticism comes amid souring Sino-Japanese relations, with ongoing territorial disputes, concerns over the release of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant, and tensions in the Taiwan Strait.

Despite the film's box office success in China, earning $95.7 million, some Chinese viewers felt that the portrayal of Japanese characters in a sympathetic light and as victims of the war contradicted Miyazaki's known anti-war stance. Critics argued that the film's metaphors and lack of clarity on Japan's wartime actions fell short of sincere reflection on the country's role in the conflict.

The harsh criticism is seen as a signal of the more extreme nationalist sentiment in China, which is closely tied to Beijing's tightly controlled historical narratives and the current tensions in Sino-Japanese relations. Experts suggest that the revival of populism and ultra-leftist views in China, coupled with the government's strict control over historical narratives, could hinder objective presentations of history and reinforce nationalist sentiments.

Why this matters: The controversy surrounding Miyazaki's film highlights the ongoing challenges in Sino-Japanese relations, particularly regarding their differing perspectives on Japan's wartime actions and the legacy of World War II. The criticism also underscores the growing influence of nationalist sentiment in China and its potential impact on cultural exchanges and diplomatic ties between the two nations.

The criticism of Miyazaki's film comes as Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida sends offering to the war-linked Yasukuni Shrine, which is viewed by some of Japan's Asian neighbors as a symbol of the country's past militarism. South Korea's Foreign Ministry expressed "deep disappointment and regret" over Kishida's offering and a minister's visit to the shrine, urging Japan's leaders to "squarely face history and show their humble reflection and genuine repentance."

Sino-Japanese ties have been further strained by Beijing's increasing military assertiveness in the region and Tokyo's decision to release treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea. As tensions continue to mount, the criticism of Miyazaki's film serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted historical grievances that continue to shape the complex relationship between China and Japan.

Key Takeaways

• Chinese nationalists criticized Miyazaki's WWII film for insufficient reflection on Japan's war history.
• The criticism reflects growing nationalist sentiment in China and tensions in Sino-Japanese relations.
• Japan's PM offering at Yasukuni Shrine further strained ties, with South Korea expressing disappointment.
• Sino-Japanese tensions are fueled by territorial disputes, Fukushima water release, and Taiwan Strait issues.
• The controversy highlights the challenges in reconciling differing perspectives on Japan's wartime actions.