Documentary Chronicles the Harrowing Experiences of Australian POWs in WWII

Under a Bamboo Sky is a poignant new documentary capturing the experiences of Australian soldiers held as prisoners of war in South-East and North Asia during World War II. The film presents the first-hand accounts of 63 men, drawn from an archive of 2,000 veteran interviews, detailing the harsh realities of life in Changi Prison, the brutal forced labour on the Thai-Burma Railway, and the extreme conditions faced in Japanese coal mines. The documentary balances the horror of war with the resilience and camaraderie of the POWs, highlighting moments of beauty, such as lush Thai jungles and starry nights, alongside unimaginable suffering. Directed by Serge Ou, the film ensures that previously unheard voices are now preserved in the public record. Through vivid storytelling, Under a Bamboo Sky illustrates the courage, mateship, and endurance that allowed these men to survive, offering a powerful testament to human resilience amid war’s atrocities. The documentary is screening in cinemas ahead of Anzac Day, providing a solemn reminder of the sacrifices and stories of Australian soldiers during WWII.