Director Tadashi Imai has been an outspoken defender of the underprivileged and that stance is still present in this drama, but it is softened with a gentle approach. Kiku and Isamu of the title are two little boys who are constantly up against hard times from their peers, and the incidents in this story bring that point forward. Both boys were fathered by black American G.I.'s during the U.S. occupation of the country. Their skin color and hair type do not augur an easy life or a happy future. Imai might belabor a few points but the drama tells a tale that needs to be heard. ~ Eleanor Mannikka, All Movie Guide
