Horror in the East (2000)

While numerous documentaries delve into Imperial Japan's involvement in Pearl Harbor and the subsequent war, this well-crafted BBC production takes a different approach by examining Japanese activities across Asia during the 1930s. Straying from sensationalism or demonization, the documentary portrays how the Japanese perception of racial superiority and the inhumane training of their soldiers contributed to the brutalization of civilians after the 1937 invasion of China. Following indiscriminate bombing by Japan's air force, the imperial army invaded, initiating a wave of atrocities comparable to the crimes committed by the Nazis in Europe. Countless women fell victim to gang rape, while living men were subjected to bayonet practice. This documentary is recommended for use in high school classrooms; however, educators should be aware that it contains graphic imagery depicting Chinese casualties.