Atsuko Onda and Arnold Craft

Atsuko Onda, the filmmaker’s mother, grew up in wartime Japan. Her fateful encounter with American engineer Arnold Craft sparked a remarkable journey that would inspire this film.

Akiko Matsuda and Clark Hewitt 2

Typist at a U.S. military proving ground, Akiko Matsuda dazzled soldier Clark Hewitt with her diligence and perfect memory. The descendent of samurai, she was destined for an arranged marriage. The strong-willed young woman had other plans.

Yoshiko Nabeoka and Gordon Storrs

Like many young Japanese, Yoshiko Nabeoka was besotted with American movies. But her marriage to an American sailor, Gordon Storrs, would lead to a life she had never imagined, far from the glitter of Hollywood.

Kazuko Shibata and Sidney Jordan

When Kazuko Shibata jitterbugged with Sidney Jordan in a Yokohama club, he was instantly smitten. Their marriage crossed cultural and racial boundaries at a moment when such unions were rare.

Chizuko Murata and Clifford Watkins

Chizuko Murata, a devout Buddhist from a protective family, had no interest in meeting American men. But soldier Clifford Watkins eventually won her over. After they settled in the U.S., the shy young woman would become a powerhouse.