This is a sharp, vigorous illustration of the achievements, sacrifices and self-denial of Japanese pilots fighting a tough battle against an insidious, well-trained enemy. Through director Yutaka Abe’s ultra modern spiritual and technical approach, we follow the actions of Captain Yamanoto and the young pilots Yukimoto, Yamamura and Sato. With a rhythm tailored to western cinema habits and requirements, Moyuro Ozora demonstrates how every technical and cinematographic innovation was rapidly picked up by Japanese directors and how, especially in Japan, documentary tends to break free from a simple list of events to become an instrument of higher, more important national motives. This film documents the heroism of a new, pure, innovative race, with the precise skill of highly refined film making.

Giuseppe Isani, Cinema, 10 agosto 1941