Twenty Two

The movie Twenty Two is a soul-stirring documentary from China that came out in 2015. Directed by Guo Ke, this feature delves deeply into the lesser-known, dark chapter in history involving ‘comfort women' during World War II. The title of the movie refers to the number of surviving ‘comfort women' identified at the time of filming.

This documentary, filmed over several years, conveys a profound respect towards the women and their experiences, attempting to shed light on their stoicism and undying spirit in the face of harsh realities. The film's non-accusatory style is a heartfelt homage to the resilience and strength displayed by these victims.

These twenty-two survivors of forced sexual slavery are from various places in China, including northern China's Shanxi, Hainan, and Sichuan. Guo Ke chronicles their stories as they vividly recount snippets from their enforced servitude. The experiences shared by the women, who were in their late-80s or 90s during the time of filming, are heart-rending and give a glimpse into the horror they faced during their formative years.

The documentary amphitheatrically evolves around the daily life of these survivors. It gives a unique perspective on how they've managed to soldier on, despite the dark shadows looming large from their past. Ke doesn’t sensationalize their experiences, instead he eloquently allows their stories to be told with a sense of dignity and quiet courage.

Ke's storytelling is organic to the bone. Rather than delving into complex historical narratives or heinous acts of inhumanity, he takes an empathetic approach, showcasing the present life of these survivors, and subtly highlighting their resilience. From their morning chores to their afternoon leisure activities to their quiet nights, the camera paints a parallel narrative that skillfully underlines their unyielding spirit amidst the scars of their past.

The documentary's aesthetic subtlety underscores the gruesome events of their past without triggering visual hysteria, making it a visually appealing film. The smooth, unhurried pace of the documentary adds a reflective tone to the viewing experience. The settings are minimalistic and always respect the comfort level of the survivors. The sweeping views of these women's simpler lives, their environments, and their activities lend an air of poignant realism to the documentary.

Those looking for an exhaustive historical overview of 'comfort women' during WWII may not find such a detailed chronicle here; the film, after all, is about the women and their present lives more than it’s about the war. Yet, the screen is filled with their history, it is felt in every scene, without necessarily having to be graphically reconstructed.

Twenty Two is also about breaking the silences that often surround wartime sexual violence. By filming the survivors' stories, Guo Ke gives a voice to the countless women who suffered through the same traumatic ordeal. The film raises broader questions about the trauma of sexual violence during the war, about the largely forgotten tragedy, thus pushing for recognition and resolution.

One of the unique aspects that set this film apart from many other documentaries on the same subject is its directness. Guo Ke doesn’t shy away from allowing the realities to present themselves as they are, raw and unfiltered. The courage of these women, powerful in their vulnerability, becomes a testament to human resilience and survival.

Twenty Two powerfully examines the lives of these survivors, free of prejudice or agenda. It portrays an intimate and sensitive narrative that speaks to the strength of these women, to their fight for dignity and justice, their silent resilience, their struggle with trauma, and ultimately their will to survive. The film is a sympathetic, respectful tribute to their unwavering spirit.

In summary, Twenty Two is an emotional, uncensored, and respectful gaze at a particular aspect of world history that is often overlooked. Using the lens of these survivors, the documentary is a stirring narrative of endurance and determination, reminding us that even amidst the darkest hours, humanity shines through. Shedding light on forgotten histories and giving voice to those who have been forced into silence, Twenty Two is a profoundly poignant documentation of human resilience and strength.