December 7th: The Day of Infamy

"December 7th: The Day of Infamy" is a 1963 documentary featuring the timeless voice talent of Richard Basehart. This cinematic work shies away from fictional narrative, instead delving into the catastrophic real-life event from the pages of American history. Directed by Russ Meyer, the movie provides a gripping chronicle of the calamitous day that was the catalyst for the United States' entry into World War II.

The film is centered on the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, which signaled the United States' involvement in the tragic global conflict. The title of the documentary refers to the term used by then President Franklin D. Roosevelt when he described this date as "a day that will live in infamy," due to the surprise military strike by the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service against the United States' naval base at Pearl Harbor, in the Territory of Hawaii.

Featuring a wealth of historic footage, this documentary plays out much like an event-by-event timeline, painstakingly detailing the course of the pivotal day. It opens with a serene morning in Pearl Harbor, providing haunting contrasts to the terror that unfolds later. It's a masterful exploration of the events leading up to the attack, the attack itself, and its aftermath.

Richard Basehart, acclaimed for his distinguished tones, brings to life the somber narrative. His voiceover lends an urgent pace to the events unfolding on screen while also harnessing the gravitas required to do justice to one of the darkest chapters of American history.

Critical to the film is the intricate detailing of the unexpected assault. The Japanese Imperial Navy's meticulous planning, the American Intelligence's crippling lapses, and the chaos and destruction that resulted from the surprise attack are thoroughly laid out for the audience. The use of historic footage, supplemented by Basehart's compelling narrative, creates a haunting depiction of the disastrous event.

The portrayal isn't limited to the macro view of the attack. It effectively interweaves smaller, personal stories that offer moving insights into the tragedy's human toll. These accounts serve to emphasize the scale of the devastating event, allowing the audience to truly understand its impact on diverse individuals, be it members of the military, civilians, or political figures.

As the film progresses, it continues to incorporate several points of view, giving a rounded perspective on the event. However, it's not simply a recounting of fact and detail. The documentary does an excellent job of capturing the raw emotion of the event. The viewer can palpably feel the panic, chaos, and ultimate heroism displayed by various personnel stationed at the naval base.

"December 7th: The Day of Infamy" also explores the immediate aftermath of the attack and America's subsequent entry into World War II. It delves into the critical decisions made by American leaders, including President Roosevelt, outlining the resolve and determination that emerged from a nation shaken to its very core.

In terms of cinematography, the documentary is adequately stark, allowing the grisly historical footage to speak for itself. The editing is sharp yet fluid, ensuring that the unfolding timeline never feels disjointed despite the complexity of the events covered.

Thematically, the film is loaded with patriotism, underscoring the sacrifice and resilience shown by Americans during the attack. It pays tribute to those who perished even as it ultimately traces a path to hope - hope born from unity and shared resolve. "December 7th: The Day of Infamy" serves not only as a historical document of a tragic event but also as a testament to the indomitable spirit of a nation.

While viewed primarily as a historical documentary, "December 7th: The Day of Infamy" is much more than that. It's an intimate snapshot of bravery and courage in the face of dire adversity. Its narration brings the somber reality of war into sharp focus, while simultaneously shedding light on the powerful human spirit. In this way, the film becomes not merely a retelling of a historical event, but a profound exploration of the endurance, resilience, and heroism of the human spirit in times of crisis.