Samâ sorujâ / Summer Soldiers (1972)

This fascinating Japanese drama takes an objective look at the relationship between American GIs and deserters in Japan during the Vietnam war. Many of the men went on leave to Tokyo. Some did not want to return and ended up sheltered by Japanese "host families" who would conceal them for a night. The story centers on the different experiences of an exhausted deserter, and a gung-ho soldier. Meanwhile, the Japanese "Deserter's Aid Committee" holds audiences with would-be dodgers.