Somewhere Between

One of the main issues we will be exploring over the course of the treatment (screen-play) is the obvious one.

As The Manhattan Project delivered (under extreme stress) to Harry Truman atomic bombing capabilities, would/should the use of such a lethal device and the estimated civilian casualties certain to ensue, carry sufficient weight in the sacrifice of human lives to save (potentially) more lives by ending WWII? Further, if Truman's decision was purely a political one, why was unconditional surrender of Japan so important, especially since they were, allegedly, already in agreement to a 'conditional' surrender when the strike was launched?

Ah, man's inhumanity to man. We have, indeed met the enemy.

While this morality play unfolds as perhaps the second or possibly third plot line, it has always represented an interesting debate in my personal book of morals and ethics. I am honored to have the assignment to reflect and investigate, cognizant of the fact that even a flawless debate will still leave 50% of the audience unconvinced to whichever side of the coin I choose to call. 

The important point here is not (for me) to try to swing viewpoint to my side, rather, to offer an interesting perspective, and (with any luck or skill at all) do it in an entertaining and accurate manner.

I have tested the waters a bit in the last few days trying to garner immediate reactions to the general outline, concept and overall treatment. Almost everyone I have trusted with a truthful comment has raised an eyebrow in response to my broad strokes painting. This is the good news. The bad news is that as this water has been tested and proved (to my satisfaction) to be warm, clean and inviting, the next step is the hardest.

Getting started.

Research has begun. Here are two opinions of the morality theme, one from a Japanese viewpoint and the other the 'standard' US story and slant.

Somewhere between the two lies, I believe, an interesting story.