I have finally gotten a copy of this really fine movie. In conversations and correspondence with its producer I have learned that not only is it a superb movie, it's true! Most historical details for the movie came from a book about the event and the Japanese fishing vessel which was used in the real life raids is currently moored in the Sydney harbor where it is considered a national treasure. In the movie, a pontoon boat powered by two outboard motors was used. A sequel entitled "Heroes: the Return" was produced two years later, in 1990, and is even more carefully researched for historical accuracy. Much to my delight, the copies which I have of both the movie and its sequel are of their original mini-series lengths. The movie as shown on US television was a shortened version. Efforts are ongoing to find a way to release the movies on cassette in the United States although the producer doesn't expect any success for the venture. That will be unfortunate since "The Heroes" is such fine cinema and provides a glimpse into the sacrifices and intrigues of the war in the Pacific. It also helps us appreciate the contributions of the Australians.
Review of The Heroes
